Small cabins are a hot commodity these days. You can join the trend, too, without giving in to the ordinary, one-size-fits-all approach.
Small Cabin Building Tips
Take a look at these 7 tips for creating the perfect small cabin, and let your creativity flow! With some advanced planning and reflection on your own tastes, you’ll be dreaming up a small cabin that fits your lifestyle perfectly.
1. Think outside of the box
If you’re just beginning the journey of designing your own small cabin, chances are you’ve pictured a somewhat ordinary structure. While cube-shaped cabins are beautiful, there’s no need to limit your options. In fact, many small cabin builders have found great success in designing cabins with unique structural compositions. These include hexagonal floorplans, tower windows, single-floor cabins with rounded roofs, and more. Exploring alternative building structures can lead you to a treasure trove of unique floorplan inspirations. You might just discover that a cabin with a rounded roof suits your style better than a classic A-Frame! Take a look at some unique small cabin structures, or dream up your own design and discuss the possibilities with a builder.
2. Multi-use arrangements
As the name suggests, small cabins can be quite cozy on the inside. But there’s no need to add extra rooms in order to enjoy all the luxuries you’re dreaming of for your small cabin. Multi-use arrangements allow cabin dwellers to maximize their indoor space. For example, a pull-down bed that can be secured against the ceiling offers the potential of opening up the room when not in use. There is an abundance of foldable furniture available, which can help small cabin owners utilize their limited indoor space to its full potential.
3. On-grid/off-grid necessities
Another important part of the small cabin planning process is determining what level of technology you need at the cabin. For many folks, building a small cabin is about creating a space away from their everyday reality in which they can catch up on serious rest and relaxation. For others, having high-speed internet is a must—even in a small cabin. Have an honest deliberation about the luxuries you want for your small cabin, and consider if any alternative options would enhance the experience. For example, would you be interested in using solar panels instead of connecting to the power grid? Or would you be willing to skip television in exchange for a bookshelf full of classic novels?
4. Steel log siding
Another rookie mistake for first-time cabin builders is the assumption that you must use real wood logs. Small metal cabins are increasing in popularity for a plethora of reasons, including the greatly enhanced durability of steel log siding over wood. But you don’t need to give up your dreams of beautiful woodgrain along the exterior when you choose a small metal cabin! TruLog steel siding specializes in creating steel siding that resembles real wood, and the accuracy of the woodgrain appearance will have you shocked that you didn’t consider steel siding sooner. TruLog offers a variety of board and batten beams and logs that have impeccably natural-looking woodgrain. Plus, there are many colors available, so your small metal cabin can have the look of pine, cedar, and more, along with the impressive durability of steel.
5. Outdoor seating
When creating a small cabin, including outdoor seating can be essential in the early design stages. Comfortable seating surrounding the small cabin can greatly enhance your entire experience by giving you space to feel like you’re a part of nature without leaving the luxuries of the cabin behind. Many small cabin owners end up spending more time on their front deck than they do inside! Consider a small deck, wraparound porch, or porch swing, and plan accordingly.
6. Transition space
Small cabins are often set amidst beautiful landscapes and wildlife. This is one of the greatest charms of building a small cabin—to escape from city life and get back in touch with nature. When creating a small cabin, it’s essential to include a transition space that allows you to leave the mess of dirt, leaves, mud, and more outside. Because indoor space is limited, any dirt that gets tracked in after a hike can make the entire interior seem a lot less cozy. Include a transition space, such as a porch, doorstep rug, or small entryway foyer, so you can leave dirty shoes, gloves, and outdoor gear in a safe space without dragging it into your oasis.
7. Surroundings
Finally, integrate the surrounding landscape into your plans. Is there a charming hill that would raise the cabin up higher? Is it more important for your small cabin to have natural shade or be visible from the road? Do you prefer that the front of the house sees the sunrise or sunset? Thinking about these details during the early stages of planning can help you create the perfect small cabin.
These 7 tips will help you get a great start on your small cabin, making it the perfect place to get away and enjoy nature and relaxation.
