When planning for a log cabin, a very important question arises: how to save space and still be comfortable? This question usually arises when the log cabin is small or when the family is big and a lot of ergonomic space is required. In either case, there are several points to consider that save space, as well as do not hurt the wallet. In this post, we will cover our experience during 27 years of log home construction and share the most common solutions chosen to save space. We at Eurodita have seen many options considered, chosen and declined all in purpose of creating the illusion of space.
Minimalist design
First and foremost – choose a minimalist design for your entire contemporary log home plan. This includes, but is not limited to, a compact, convertible sofa you can use for variety of purposes. Not just sitting down for lunch, but also sleeping and allowing guests to stay over. A sofa is a central hub of any home and log cabin is no exception. The ability to convert this central hub to various purposes is instrumental for ergonomic use of the living room area.
Another aspect of minimalist design that is central to the ergonomic choices for your log cabin is a folding dinner table. They usually come either in a butterfly type or fold out from within themselves. Whichever option you choose, it’s a great way to have a decorative surface that can then be converted into a dining area.
Last aspect of a minimalist design are drawers underneath the stairs. If your log cabin has two storeys, a great way to store your things is to use up the space under the stairs. Drawers, cabinets or wardrobes – whichever storage solution fits, it’s a great way to use that space up.
Ergonomic bedrooms
If your family is getting quite large, solutions for log cabin bedrooms are already a necessity. First and most commonly used ergonomic solution are bunk beds. This two-storey solution not only saves space, but creates great play opportunities for young children. A contemporary log cabin design already offers quite a few options for adventure and children’s bedroom should be no exception.
Alternatively, if bunk-beds are not an option, there’s a great alternative. Wall-mounted beds that can be lowered down when needed, while saving space during daytime.
Another great way to save space is to use wall-mounted, extendable desks. When play time is over and study follows, spaces should be changed in a way that fits the study regime. Foldable chairs and extendable desks are great space-savers when the floor is turned into a play area. But when time for serious business comes, extended desks immediately turn into a learning area.
Color pallet
If you have small cabin plans, your colour pallet should be chosen accordingly. It should be on the lighter spectrum, warm, sandy or white colours. This side of the colour pallet make everything look bigger than it is, give the sense of breeze and lightness. We covered the topic of colour extensively in our previous post and if you’re still struggling with picking the main colour and the design more broadly – that post is best for you.
Important details
Lighting – pick out the lighting that is apt and brighter than it should usually be. This will create an illusion that the spaces are bigger than they really are. Pick out corners that are the darkest and match them with appropriate lighting solutions.
Mirrors – a great pair to go with lighting. It doubles up whatever light source you have and expands the space. Corridors and central hubs of your log house are great places to use mirrors. They will amplify whatever space you’re trying to create.
Depth-defying artwork – a great way to score bonus depth is to pick artwork that tricks the eye into thinking there’s more space than in reality. Right now, there’s great contemporary surrealist and geometric art that defied the sense of depth and like that creates more space. With the advent of small apartments, this type of artwork can now move out of the city and into the natural environment, benefiting even the smallest log cabin.
Whichever option you choose, we always recommend consulting the professionals beforehand. Find your style first, settle on it and only then execute with details. Always ask yourself, if the space you’re pondering cannot be made more ergonomic than it already is. There are so many great options for small spaces available now, you simply must be able to choose. Good luck!