During the summer, the structure opens to face the pond. With a large open face and a retractable roof, the structure has the ability to open itself up the pleasant island atmosphere. To avoid pest problems, an optional zipper-up screen can be put in place.

During the winter, the roof is closed and a flat packed plywood skin is taken from under the foundation platform and “wrapped” around the walls of the tea house to protect the interior from the extreme Northern climate. A large reclaimed barn window illuminates the tea house from the back side. The beautiful pane was actually found on sight and incoporated into the design on the fly.