The Art of Sustainable Architecture: Walcott Cottage in Mobile Bay Magazine

Photography | Summer Ennis Ansley

Architects Gina and Mac Walcott crafted a 650‑square‑foot cabin on their Fish River property as a spontaneous, sustainable retreat. Built more by inspiration than strict planning, the couple intended it as a “reunion cottage” — a creative space for guests, weddings, and “little getaways.” Mac says, “We decided to make it up as we go,” turning the build into a laboratory in affordable, hands‑on construction (Mobile Bay Magazine).

The cabin leans heavily on salvaged and locally milled materials. Mac notes, “I can look at every piece of wood in this cottage and know that I cut or touched it … it makes it real — authentic.” He repurposed elements like a pier ladder for loft stairs and turned a damaged wood panel into a miniature horse mural. Systems are mostly off‑grid: solar power, a wood‑burning stove, and energy‑efficient design keep it largely self‑sufficient.

Far from a finished monument, the cabin remains a work in progress and a teaching tool. “This cottage was our guinea pig … we’re ready to do another one,” Mac says, envisioning a “design/build school” where people can learn practical building skills. His hope is to encourage experimentation: “It’s okay to experiment … you can do it if you’ve got the time and patience,” and to help others reinvest in making rather than just buying.