The Retreat McCall: Designing a Retreat Lodge in the Idaho Backcountry / by Erik Hagen

 The Retreat McCall sits on 40 acres of forested land outside McCall, Idaho. Photo Courtesy The Retreat McCall

Located in the forested foothills outside McCall, Idaho, The Retreat McCall is an 8,000 square foot dormitory lodge designed to support group retreats, gatherings, and events in a quiet mountain setting.

Situated on 40 acres near Jughandle Mountain, the project provides a place where groups can gather, stay overnight, and remain closely connected to the surrounding landscape.

Project Overview

The lodge was designed to accommodate retreat groups with overnight lodging for up to 40 guests. The building includes 16 bedrooms with multiple queen beds, allowing organizations, families, and event groups to stay together in one place.

The project supports a range of uses including leadership retreats, weddings, and group gatherings, offering a setting where visitors can step away from daily routines and spend time together in a quiet natural environment.

 The architecture draws from the vernacular of regional mountain lodges. Photo Courtesy The Retreat McCall

Architecture and Materials

The building references the language of mountain lodges common throughout the region. Wood siding, timber elements, and simple forms help the structure sit naturally within the surrounding forest.

Large windows bring natural light into the building while framing views of the surrounding trees and mountains. The goal was to create a durable structure that feels grounded in the landscape while remaining welcoming to the groups who gather there.

 Interior spaces emphasize natural light and connection to the surrounding forest. Photo Courtesy The Retreat McCall

Interior Spaces

Inside, the design emphasizes warmth, simplicity, and durability. Natural materials and large windows help bring the surrounding landscape into the interior experience.

Shared gathering areas allow groups to spend time together, while dormitory-style rooms provide comfortable accommodations for guests staying overnight.

 Dormitory-style rooms provide simple, comfortable lodging for retreat groups. Photo Courtesy The Retreat McCall

 On Site at The Retreat McCall

Erik recently visited The Retreat McCall with his family. Returning to a completed project is always a good reminder that buildings tend to look a lot better in real life than they do in a stack of drawings.

Seeing the project in use and experiencing the surrounding landscape is one of the more rewarding parts of the process.

 Project Information

Location
Near McCall, Idaho

Building Size
8,000 square feet

Program
Dormitory lodge for retreats and group gatherings

Capacity
Overnight accommodations for up to 40 guests

Interested in working with an architect in Boise or the surrounding region?
Learn more about Erik Hagen Architecture or contact the studio to start a conversation.