Stories History of the Lindal A-frame
A Lindal A-frame from a house plan catalog, circa 1960s
When we think of unique and distinctive architectural styles, the A-frame house is one that immediately comes to mind. This simple yet stylish design has been used for centuries, and continues to be popular today.
Origins of the A-Frame House
The origins of the A-frame house can be traced back to ancient Japan, where the traditional Minka houses featured steeply pitched roofs made of thatched straw. These roofs, which resembled the letter “A,” allowed for efficient drainage of rain and snow.
In the Western world, the A-frame style gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a cost-effective and easily constructed option for vacation homes and ski lodges. The design’s simple geometry, with its two sloping sides meeting at the peak of the roof, made it easy to build and efficient to heat.
Lindal Enters the A-Frame Market
Along with other companies like Sears, Roebuck, one of the most significant contributors to the popularity of the A-frame house in the U.S. was Lindal Cedar Homes. In the mid-20th century, Lindal offered a range of pre-cut and pre-fabricated building components that could be easily assembled by a homeowner, including a patented A-frame design that was featured on the cover of Popular Mechanics in 1966.
Lindal’s A-frame home kits reached their heyday in the 1950s and the 1970s, and were available in several different sizes and styles. The kits included pre-cut lumber and other components, along with detailed instructions for assembly. The A-frame design was particularly popular for vacation homes, as it could be quickly built in remote locations and easily maintained.
While the popularity of A-frame houses waned in the 1970s, the design has experienced a resurgence in recent years, particularly among fans of modern architecture.
The Alpha: An A-frame Home for Modern Lifestyles
Today, there is renewed interest in the A-frame among design-conscious people who want a vacation getaway or primary
residence that makes a strong architectural statement. Lindal worked with architectural designer Aris Georges of OM Studio Design to create a modern A-frame that celebrates the fundamental geometry and purity of the structure in a fresh new way.
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Whether you’re looking for a cozy vacation cabin or a stylish contemporary home, the A-frame is a truly unique and distinctive option. Contact your local Lindal representative today to get started on planning your own A-frame home.