Cheaha State Park Lodge: A Sustainable Timber Marvel in Alabama

The Cheaha State Park Lodge: A Triumph of Sustainability and Design

Nestled at the peak of Alabama's highest mountain, the Cheaha State Park Lodge represents a remarkable achievement in sustainable architecture. Developed by Mercer Mass Timber (MMT), a well-known provider of eco-friendly timber building materials, this lodge stands as Alabama's largest mass timber project, embodying a fusion of modern design, local history, and ecological mindfulness.

Design and Construction

Spanning 26,000 square feet, the Cheaha State Park Lodge is not just a place to stay but a celebration of Alabama's natural heritage. The construction uses a hybrid structural system prominently featuring cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulams, showcasing materials that align with MMT’s commitment to sustainability. This construction also utilizes Southern Yellow Pine (SYP), a local timber renowned for its durability and suitability for the Appalachian climate. This choice of material pays homage to the land itself while reducing transport emissions.

The lodge's architecture, designed by Chambless King Architects for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, draws inspiration from the Civilian Conservation Corps' stone structures dating back to the 1930s. These historical elements have been reinterpreted, creating a seamless blend between the old and the new, inspiring visitors to engage with nature through the warmth and tactility of exposed wood.

Jared Fulton, principal at Chambless King Architects, described this project as a connection between architecture and its natural surroundings. He emphasized the design's intent to echo the mountain's contours and facilitate a deeper connection between guests and the environment. This ethos of biophilic design invites the surrounding forest into the lodge, creating spaces that resonate with serenity and connection to the land.

Acknowledging Indigenous Heritage

The name “Cheaha” originates from the Creek Indian word “Chaha,” meaning “high place.” This background signifies the spiritual and historical importance of the site to Indigenous peoples long before modern construction. Both Mercer Mass Timber and its partners pay tribute to this heritage, recognizing the significance of honoring the land and its original stewards.

Ricardo Brites, Director of Engineering at MMT, expressed pride in contributing to a narrative that supports renewable building practices, pairing community identity with environmental stewardship. This project is not merely about building; it is about telling the story of the place through built form and responsible resource usage.

Looking Ahead

Set to be completed in early 2026, the Cheaha State Park Lodge is a symbol of low-carbon construction and a commitment to preserving the region’s identity through sustainable design. With its extensive use of exposed mass timber components, the lodge aims to serve as a vital community asset and draw visitors to the state's natural beauty.

Through cooperation with local partners like The Westervelt Company and Carpentry Plus, Inc., MMT is realizing this ambitious vision while showcasing the benefits of using local materials and craftsmanship. The lodge promises not only to enhance the guest experience but to foster lasting connections between visitors and the pristine environment of Cheaha State Park.

For those seeking an immersive experience in nature coupled with a deep respect for heritage and sustainability, the Cheaha State Park Lodge will undoubtedly become a landmark destination that honors both past and future. Whether you are exploring the trails or enjoying the lodge's cozy ambiance, this project invites everyone into a rich narrative of ecological responsibility and architectural beauty.