Inspired by the memory of Alexandra Ellis, a 5-year-old girl with a special knack for bringing people together, Caring Cabin is the result of many caring individuals, businesses and organizations donating their combined talents, time, energy and vision to create an extraordinary place for healing and the renewal of the human spirit.The nonprofit Children's Cancer Association sought to provide a lakeside retreat near the Oregon coast, where the families of critically ill children and those diagnosed with cancer could escape the sterile environments of the medical world and enjoy the serenity of nature to create their own lasting memories.The 4,114-square foot Caring Cabin provides that opportunity -- the first facility of its kind in the western United States.
Caring Cabin was designed by the donated services of Portland-based TVA Architects, under the leadership of design principal Robert L. Thompson, FAIA.Nestled among 24 wooded acres in Oregon's scenic PacificCity, this breathtaking sanctuary features four private bedrooms, exposed wood timber construction, and stunning vistas.Designed as a series of pavilions, the retreat compound is defined by the main residence, a small meditation pavilion and a recreation room with sleeping loft, which can be converted into a two-car garage.The main facility is comprised of two private family bedroom pavilions and an adjacent family gathering pavilion including the kitchen, dining, and informal gathering spaces with a large stone fireplace.The connecting circulation space is defined by a lower flat roof building form.Wrapped with glass walls, the corners of the pavilions allow connection with the outdoors via views of the lake and flood the exposed wood-framed interior spaces with the warmth of natural light.Virtually every room was designed with the comfort of children in mind.
A primary concern for the Children's Cancer Association was the elimination of toxic building materials; therefore, finishes include natural stone, low VOC paints, sealants, and adhesives, natural wool carpets and formaldehyde-free wood products from sustainable sources.A stay at this architecturally spectacular, one-of-a-kind home is available at no cost to eligible families, thanks to the generosity and spirit of countless donors and volunteers.
According to Caring Cabin designer Robert Thompson, “We first learned about the project through Jim Robison, a longtime Nike executive, and the vision was so powerful we couldn't say no. I can't think of a more deserving organization than one serving critically ill children. As a member of the business community, we feel it's important that we share our professional expertise with nonprofits having limited resources, and help them flourish and attain their goals. Four years ago we dreamed of building a very special place – a caring cabin – dedicated solely to providing a much-needed respite for children away from the hospital. This summer we proved that dreams really do come true when the retreat opened its doors to welcome its first family."
"We're thrilled that Robert Thompson and TVA created one of the most spectacular homes in the world for children facing life-threatening and terminal illnesses," states Regina Ellis, CEO and Founder of the Children's Cancer Association."Caring Cabin would not have come to life without their incredible talents, and we're eternally grateful for their partnership."
The Children's Cancer Association (CCA) is an award-winning, Portland, Oregon-based non-profit organization addressing the unmet needs of hospitalized children.CCA brings the joy of music, the magic of wishes, the power of information, and compassion to seriously ill children and their families.CCA serves more than 13,000 children and families in Oregon, Southwest Washington, and across the United States every year.For more information on the CCA's services and Caring Cabin visit: http://joyrx.org/
TVA Architects Inc., is a nationally recognized architecture, planning, and interiors firm based in Portland, Oregon. Established in 1984, the company has a rich history of providing innovative architecture and comprehensive master planning services for a wide variety of clients. Known for being an architecture firm that listens to our clients, we are fortunate to have been recognized consistently by our peers and clients for design excellence, having received over 60 awards, including 43 American Institute of Architects national, regional and local Design Awards, two Governor’s Livability Awards, and a national GSA Design Honor Award for Sustainability/ Adaptive Reuse. Award-winning athletic venues, campus projects, community centers, and other public work – all speak to the company’s diverse portfolio that balances design aesthetics, performance, and respect for the environment. However, no award is greater than the praise of a satisfied client.
