Built with DEN

Grey Zisser/Upstate Build Company: DEN's Certified Build Partner in the Hudson Valley

Grey Zisser is Hudson Valley’s Certified DEN Build Partner and the founder of Upstate Build Company. After a first career in advertising, he proved his approach by building and renovating his own homes in the region. When an Airbnb guest asked if one of those houses was for sale—and then asked if he could build one just like it—Grey said yes. That commission launched a client practice focused on transparent budgeting, clear communication, and high-touch craftsmanship. In this episode, Grey and Mike dig into what it really takes to build a DEN in the Hudson Valley and Catskills: from land search and feasibility (zoning, utilities, setbacks) to permits, scheduling, and inspections, all the way through punch list and CO. Grey explains his cost-plus process, how he uses 3D modeling to walk clients through choices in real time, and why having a boots-on-the-ground builder from day one removes friction, surprises, and costly rework. If you’re considering a modern cabin, A-frame, or small home using DEN plans, this conversation is a practical playbook. You’ll learn how to set a realistic budget, where timelines get stuck, which decisions to make in design vs. on site, and how an experienced local partner can turn a set of plans into a finished, permitted home—on schedule and with fewer headaches.

From Cabin Plans to Lakeside Retreat: Laura's Alpine 2.2 Build with DEN

Laura had a clear vision for her family’s cabin: something modern yet timeless, efficient yet warm, and perfectly suited for gatherings by the lake. Working with DEN’s Alpine 2.2 [https://denoutdoors.com/products/2-bedroom-modern-house-loft?srsltid=AfmBOopPIKgXRvPlUEeE9l_MjByffWXoqler32FfFYgxlrjXuDoGzUXR&variant=39315206176832] cabin plans, she brought that vision to life in a way that balanced design challenges with personal touches. For Laura, the appeal of DEN was in finding modern cabin plans that could deliver on both aesthetics and practicality. She wanted a design that reflected the spirit of a modern family cabin—a retreat that felt architecturally fresh, but still carried the warmth of a traditional getaway. The Alpine 2.2 cabin was a natural fit, combining efficiency with a layout perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and making memories year-round. What makes this project especially inspiring is how it demonstrates the flexibility of DEN’s designs. Set on a narrow lot cabin site near the lake, Laura’s build proves that you don’t need sprawling acreage to create an extraordinary retreat. With the right planning, even a compact footprint can become a welcoming space that feels open and expansive. The result is a true lakeside cabin retreat—bright, efficient, and designed for real family living. Large windows draw in natural light, thoughtful details make the most of every square foot, and the finished home seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces. For anyone dreaming of a Lake Michigan cabin escape or simply exploring cabin plans that can adapt to unique property challenges, Laura’s project is proof that a modern vision, paired with the right plans, can create something timeless.

Building Creekside at the Esopus: How Modern Cabin Plans Create Modern Cabin Rentals

When Cooper set out to create a one-of-a-kind retreat in the Catskills, he knew he needed more than just inspiration — he needed cabin plans that could balance style, efficiency, and a clear path to building. His search ultimately led him to DEN Outdoors - our modern cabin plans stood out for their mix of clean design and practical, builder-friendly details. The result is Creekside at the Esopus, a project that reflects not only Cooper’s own vision but also how the right design can transform raw land into a welcoming destination. For Cooper, the decision to use DEN Outdoors cabin plans wasn’t just about building a house; it was about creating a space that could flex between personal use and a viable rental business. His cabin now doubles as both a relaxing escape and an inviting option for guests looking for modern cabin rentals, tiny home vacation rentals, or even the kind of immersive off-grid cabin rental experience that has become so popular among travelers. By combining thoughtful modifications to his chosen modern alpine house plans [https://denoutdoors.com/products/updated-loft-cabin?srsltid=AfmBOoozPXqyxk5fHdI4lePqN2jigd_EVu-1rcih7OazhG5WhMpTLc1e&variant=31962644643904] with his own creative touches, Cooper was able to achieve a build that feels both unique and instantly familiar to anyone who dreams of a mountain retreat. Along the way, he learned firsthand how efficient, well-structured design can simplify the construction process, reduce unexpected costs, and open the door to long-term success — lessons that anyone considering a build of their own can take to heart. In this story, Cooper shares his journey of choosing the right plans, marketing his property, and creating a modern Catskills getaway that feels like home from the moment you arrive.

Building Modern Cabins in Red River Gorge: An Interview with Everly Lodging

In this episode, we explore what it takes to build a truly standout modern cabin in one of Kentucky’s most scenic regions. Sonia and Jeff, founders of Everly Lodging, joined us to talk through their journey turning raw land in Rogers, Kentucky, into a cluster of thoughtfully designed, high-performing cabin rentals. Nestled in the heart of Red River Gorge, their A-Frame cabins and modern rustic retreats blend minimalism with mountain charm, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for weekenders, hikers, and design lovers alike. Sonia and Jeff walk us through their process — from selecting the land to completing their first A-Frame cabin using DEN Outdoors plans. They share what it was like navigating the local permitting process, prepping their site, and executing a design vision that prioritizes simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. Their modern rustic design combines clean lines, natural materials, and open interiors that feel peaceful and intentional — exactly what people are looking for in a design-forward A-Frame house. This episode also goes behind the scenes of their rental business. With over 90% occupancy rates, Everly Lodging is proof that good design and thoughtful hosting can create serious returns. Sonia and Jeff share how they approached staging, photography, guest communication, and pricing — and how they carved out space in the competitive Red River Gorge cabins market without compromising on what made their homes feel unique. Finally, we dig into why Rogers, Kentucky, is such a smart location for modern cabin development. With year-round tourism, an explosion of interest in nature-forward stays, and easy access to hiking and climbing in Red River Gorge, the area is an ideal canvas for building and hosting. Whether you’re dreaming about launching your own rental, or just love the idea of a weekend escape in the woods, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable insight.

Building a Modern Cabin in Upstate NY: Ava & Yang’s Outpost Plus with DEN Outdoors

When Ava and Yang set out to build their dream getaway in Upstate New York, they weren’t just searching for inspiration — they needed modern cabin plans that could guide them from raw land to a finished retreat. Their journey ultimately led them to DEN Outdoors’ Outpost Plus, a design that combined the clean lines of a modern cabin build with the flexibility to customize details to fit their vision. What started as a set of cabin plans quickly became a blueprint for turning their long-held dream into a tangible home. For Ava and Yang, the decision to go with a modern design wasn’t about creating just another rustic cabin in the woods. They wanted a space that balanced livability with the potential to generate income through Airbnb rentals in the Catskills. By choosing builder-friendly cabin plans, they were able to streamline the process, avoid costly surprises, and focus on the details that would set their property apart — from the extra loft space to the way natural light floods through the signature Outpost Plus windows. Along the way, they discovered that modifying modern cabin plans requires careful planning. Small changes, like shifting layouts or adding square footage, can create ripple effects throughout the build. But with DEN’s structured approach, the challenges became opportunities to refine their retreat. This adaptability is one reason many homeowners exploring prefab cabins or prefab homes also turn to DEN: the plans provide a clear starting point while still allowing for creative adjustments. Now, as construction progresses from concrete floors to soaring timber frames, Ava and Yang’s Outpost Plus is taking shape as both a personal escape and a future rental destination. Their experience offers insight for anyone considering a modern cabin build of their own — showing how the right plans, a clear vision, and a willingness to adapt can transform raw land into a welcoming retreat that feels like home the moment you step inside.