Guides from Offsite on designing and building a house: land, zoning, permits, costs and construction.https://www.offsite.camp/en-ushttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-airbnb-ban-is-not-in-the-code/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-airbnb-ban-is-not-in-the-code/We read the short-term rental rule in 367 New York municipalities. Slightly over half have no STR ordinance at all and 14 prohibit it outright - and no local law is not the same as permission.Wed, 30 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-construction-loan-draws-work/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-construction-loan-draws-work/A construction loan funds in five draws tied to milestones, not dates. The schedule, what the interest really costs, and where a build tends to slip.Wed, 16 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-compare-contractor-bids/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-compare-contractor-bids/Two honest bids on the same house can land six figures apart. How to compare contractor bids line by line, and what to read before you sign one.Wed, 16 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/what-an-owners-representative-actually-does/https://www.offsite.camp/post/what-an-owners-representative-actually-does/An owner's rep holds the whole build together, from zoning through the certificate of occupancy. What the role covers, phase by phase, and what it isn't.Wed, 16 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/building-a-cabin-in-the-catskills/https://www.offsite.camp/post/building-a-cabin-in-the-catskills/Lot minimums, height caps, ADU rules and rental limits change at every Catskills town line. What to check before you buy a cabin lot, with real town data.Mon, 10 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/what-it-actually-costs-to-make-raw-land-buildable-in-the-hudson-valley/https://www.offsite.camp/post/what-it-actually-costs-to-make-raw-land-buildable-in-the-hudson-valley/Well, septic, perc test, driveway, clearing, power - the site work that turns a raw Hudson Valley parcel buildable, and why it never shows up in a price per sq ft.Wed, 22 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/short-term-rental-rules-hudson-valley/https://www.offsite.camp/post/short-term-rental-rules-hudson-valley/Woodstock caps Airbnb at 120 nights, Hurley bans it unless you live there, Olive caps permits for owners who don't. A town-by-town look at short-term rental rules across the Hudson Valley.Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-cost-of-the-sticks-is-the-wrong-lever/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-cost-of-the-sticks-is-the-wrong-lever/Let's do a little mind experiment.A builder I know is about to put a spec house up on a lot she just bought outside Kingston.Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/sustainable-design-for-small-cabins-building-better-without-the-overhead/https://www.offsite.camp/post/sustainable-design-for-small-cabins-building-better-without-the-overhead/Sustainable design for small cabins isn't about expensive certifications or exotic materials. It's about three decisions made early: orientation, envelope performance, and material...Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-short-term-rental-cabin-what-guests-actually-want/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-short-term-rental-cabin-what-guests-actually-want/Most short-term rental cabins are designed around what owners assume guests want. The cabins that earn five-star reviews and repeat bookings are built around a different set of priorities.Fri, 19 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/modern-cabin-aesthetics-what-makes-a-design-feel-timeless/https://www.offsite.camp/post/modern-cabin-aesthetics-what-makes-a-design-feel-timeless/The most enduring cabin designs follow principles, not trends. Here's what makes modern cabin aesthetics feel timeless rather than dated.Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-build-a-cabin-for-year-round-living-not-just-weekends/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-build-a-cabin-for-year-round-living-not-just-weekends/Most cabins are built for three seasons and closed down in November. Building for year-round use is not dramatically more expensive, but it requires specific choices upfront: envelope...Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/off-grid-power-systems-for-cabins-solar-battery-and-what-actually-works/https://www.offsite.camp/post/off-grid-power-systems-for-cabins-solar-battery-and-what-actually-works/Running grid power to a remote cabin site can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Here's how solar, battery storage, and backup generators work together -- and why the cabin design itself...Fri, 15 May 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/studio-designed-vs-stock-plans-what-s-the-difference-and-does-it-matter/https://www.offsite.camp/post/studio-designed-vs-stock-plans-what-s-the-difference-and-does-it-matter/Not all cabin plans are created equal. Here's what separates studio-designed plans from stock plans -- and why it matters for your build.Fri, 08 May 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/what-to-look-for-in-a-cabin-plan-before-you-buy/https://www.offsite.camp/post/what-to-look-for-in-a-cabin-plan-before-you-buy/Most people pick a cabin plan based on how it looks. Here's what you should actually evaluate before you buy: site fit, layout logic, envelope performance, and what the plan set actually...Fri, 01 May 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-case-for-building-small-why-less-square-footage-is-often-more/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-case-for-building-small-why-less-square-footage-is-often-more/Building bigger rarely means living better. Here's why less square footage often delivers better performance, lower costs, and stronger returns for cabins and ADUs.Fri, 01 May 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/modern-cabin-design-what-sustainable-design-actually-means/https://www.offsite.camp/post/modern-cabin-design-what-sustainable-design-actually-means/Sustainable design is one of the most overused terms in construction. Here's what it actually means for modern cabin design: why orientation, building envelope, and material efficiency...Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/small-cabin-plans-how-to-make-the-most-of-a-compact-footprint/https://www.offsite.camp/post/small-cabin-plans-how-to-make-the-most-of-a-compact-footprint/How to design and choose small cabin plans that live larger than their footprint. Built for ADUs, weekend cabins, and short term rentals.Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/nyc-just-made-adus-legal-what-it-means-for-hudson-valley-landowners/https://www.offsite.camp/post/nyc-just-made-adus-legal-what-it-means-for-hudson-valley-landowners/In September 2025, New York City legalized accessory dwelling units for the first time in 60 years.Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/adus-vs-cabins-which-makes-more-sense-for-your-land/https://www.offsite.camp/post/adus-vs-cabins-which-makes-more-sense-for-your-land/Not sure whether to build an ADU or a cabin on your land? Here's a practical breakdown of how the two differ, when each makes sense, and what's changed in New York since the September 2025...Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/5-things-to-know-before-building-a-cabin-in-the-delaware-water-gap/https://www.offsite.camp/post/5-things-to-know-before-building-a-cabin-in-the-delaware-water-gap/Thinking about building a cabin in the Delaware Water Gap? Before you buy land or hire a designer, here are five things every first-time builder needs to know - from flood zones to permit...Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/faq-everything-you-need-to-know-about-offsite-camp/https://www.offsite.camp/post/faq-everything-you-need-to-know-about-offsite-camp/How a project runs with us, what a permit actually takes in Upstate NY, the costs people forget, and what a cabin can realistically earn as a rental.Sun, 22 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-best-cabin-designs-for-short-term-rentals-in-the-hudson-valley/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-best-cabin-designs-for-short-term-rentals-in-the-hudson-valley/Planning a short-term rental cabin in the Hudson Valley? Here are the cabin designs that earn the most - and what to look for before you build.Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-much-does-it-cost-to-build-a-cabin-in-the-catskills-in-2025/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-much-does-it-cost-to-build-a-cabin-in-the-catskills-in-2025/A realistic, no-fluff breakdown of land, construction, permits, and total costs for building a cabin in the Catskills and Hudson Valley.Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/cabin-plans-vs-custom-design-which-is-right-for-your-upstate-ny-build/https://www.offsite.camp/post/cabin-plans-vs-custom-design-which-is-right-for-your-upstate-ny-build/Cabin plans are fast and affordable, but custom design might save you money in the long run. Here's how to decide which approach is right for your Upstate NY cabin project.Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/breaking-down-cabin-costs-your-ultimate-cabin-price-guide/https://www.offsite.camp/post/breaking-down-cabin-costs-your-ultimate-cabin-price-guide/Building or buying a cabin is an exciting journey. Whether you dream of a cozy retreat in the woods or a sleek, performance-driven design, understanding the costs involved is essential.Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/finding-house-plans-online-your-guide-to-online-house-plan-sources/https://www.offsite.camp/post/finding-house-plans-online-your-guide-to-online-house-plan-sources/When I first started looking for house plans, I quickly realized how vast and varied the options are.Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/exploring-contemporary-cabin-designs-a-journey-into-modern-living/https://www.offsite.camp/post/exploring-contemporary-cabin-designs-a-journey-into-modern-living/When I first started exploring cabin living, I was drawn to the blend of nature and design. Contemporary cabin designs offer a fresh take on traditional cabins, focusing on performance...Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/finding-customizable-home-plans-online/https://www.offsite.camp/post/finding-customizable-home-plans-online/How to Actually Use Customizable House PlansMost house plan websites make customization sound simple. Pick a plan, swap some rooms around, done.Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/effective-work-life-balance-advice-for-creative-and-performance-driven-individuals/https://www.offsite.camp/post/effective-work-life-balance-advice-for-creative-and-performance-driven-individuals/Work-Life Balance Is a Design ProblemI hate most work-life balance advice. It tends to be either painfully obvious ("take breaks!") or written by people who've never actually tried to run a...Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/what-house-plans-actually-cost-and-why-it-s-complicated/https://www.offsite.camp/post/what-house-plans-actually-cost-and-why-it-s-complicated/I'm not going to pretend house plan pricing is straightforward. It's not. And most of what you'll find online is either oversimplified or trying to sell you something.So let's talk about...Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/understand-the-costs-of-building-your-cabin-a-guide-to-cabin-building-expenses-1/https://www.offsite.camp/post/understand-the-costs-of-building-your-cabin-a-guide-to-cabin-building-expenses-1/Building a cabin involves various expenses beyond just materials and labor. Several factors come into play, each affecting your budget differently.Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/start-building-your-dream-home-with-cabin-plans/https://www.offsite.camp/post/start-building-your-dream-home-with-cabin-plans/Explore the unique advantages of cabin plans for countryside living. Learn about customization and design options.Mon, 08 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-role-of-sustainable-design-studios/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-role-of-sustainable-design-studios/Understand the benefits of working with a sustainable design studio for eco-conscious and innovative architectural solutions.Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/steps-to-sustainable-house-design/https://www.offsite.camp/post/steps-to-sustainable-house-design/Discover the principles of sustainable house design. Learn about eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and green building practices.Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/understanding-the-role-of-design-build-firms/https://www.offsite.camp/post/understanding-the-role-of-design-build-firms/Discover what makes a design-build firm unique and how they streamline construction projects for efficiency and quality.Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/key-considerations-for-selecting-home-plans/https://www.offsite.camp/post/key-considerations-for-selecting-home-plans/Learn how to choose or design the ideal home plans to suit your needs. Explore styles, functionality, and cost-efficiency.Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/essential-factors-to-consider-for-your-modern-cabin-plans-and-building-success/https://www.offsite.camp/post/essential-factors-to-consider-for-your-modern-cabin-plans-and-building-success/Building a Modern Cabin: Your Guide to Crafting a Personal SanctuaryBuilding a modern cabin is more than just construction; it's about crafting a personal sanctuary that resonates with...Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-choose-the-perfect-prefab-cabin-for-your-needs-and-lifestyle/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-choose-the-perfect-prefab-cabin-for-your-needs-and-lifestyle/"Prefabricated Cabins: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Retreat"Prefabricated cabins are gaining popularity among those seeking a beautiful and functional space in nature.Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/exploring-off-grid-cabins-in-new-york/https://www.offsite.camp/post/exploring-off-grid-cabins-in-new-york/Explore Offsite's options for off-grid cabin rentals in New York and enjoy a sustainable getaway surrounded by nature.Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-process-of-building-prefab-cabins/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-process-of-building-prefab-cabins/Discover the process of designing and building custom prefab cabins tailored to your needs and preferences.Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/nature-inspired-home-design-principles/https://www.offsite.camp/post/nature-inspired-home-design-principles/Explore the principles of nature-focused architecture and how they enhance sustainable living and aesthetic appeal in modern homes.Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/embracing-the-future-key-considerations-for-new-york-s-all-electric-building-law/https://www.offsite.camp/post/embracing-the-future-key-considerations-for-new-york-s-all-electric-building-law/Understanding the All-Electric Building LawThe all-electric building law is part of New York's broader climate agenda, requiring that all new construction in the state be powered entirely...Sat, 06 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-find-land-for-your-cabin/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-find-land-for-your-cabin/Three years ago, I started looking for land to put Offsite cabins on. I started looking for the perfect piece of land for our first campground development.Fri, 29 Aug 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/the-off-grid-cabin-systems-primer/https://www.offsite.camp/post/the-off-grid-cabin-systems-primer/A primer for off-grid cabin systems covering power, water and waste. Find the systems that work for you for your off-grid cabin.Tue, 26 Aug 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/do-i-need-a-permit-to-build-my-cabin/https://www.offsite.camp/post/do-i-need-a-permit-to-build-my-cabin/Here's a conversation I've had many times:"Ok, so I've got this amazing piece of land upstate. I want to put a cabin on it.Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/why-we-always-build-3d-models-for-clients/https://www.offsite.camp/post/why-we-always-build-3d-models-for-clients/Offsite's reasoning for always 3D Modeling cabin and home designs for clients. Creating a better model for architecture and design.Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-build-a-cabin-in-the-woods/https://www.offsite.camp/post/how-to-build-a-cabin-in-the-woods/All the steps to build your dream cabin in the woods.Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/introducing-offsite-studio/https://www.offsite.camp/post/introducing-offsite-studio/I really hate improv, but I've always been a big fan of "Yes, and…" principles. When we started Offsite I didn't have intentions to take on contract work, but since we launched the cabin...Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.offsite.camp/post/park-model-cabins-a-comprehensive-guide/https://www.offsite.camp/post/park-model-cabins-a-comprehensive-guide/A comprehensive guide on park model cabins. Discusses the pros and cons and how they relate to manufactured homes. Highlights the best ways to use a park model cabin.Wed, 27 Mar 2024 12:00:00 GMT