There’s no reason why your beautiful log cabin can’t be used all year round. There’s a tendency for many beloved log cabins to be the jewel in the summer crown, then in winter they’re relegated as a storage space for garden tools, BBQs and garden furniture. Many fully glazed log cabins are more robust these days with all-year-round use in mind. Even if you’ve purchased a cabin without the thought of using it through the winter months, it’s definitely worth reconsidering the option of having an extra space to use all-year-round. Getting the most out of your log cabin to make it useable over autumn and winter doesn’t have to be a mammoth project (unless you want it to be). Here, Lloyd Wells working with Hortons Log Cabins looks at seven of the best ways to keep warm this winter:
1. Topsy-turvy floor and wall coverings
Bare walls can send a chill down anyone’s spine in the winter months. Carpet-style wall hangings do more than create a Bohemian theme to your cabin décor, they do actually serve as handy insulation too. The idea isn’t mutually exclusive. Don’t even think about wallpapering the floor, think rugs all the way.
If you’re into interior design and love a project, you could make an insulating wall hanging by stretching your favourite fabric over a frame and lining the back with insulating material. It’s a unique way of addressing the cold, and adding a touch of personal style to your log cabin haven.
2. The little extras
Warm throws are a must. They not only make your cabin look warmer, but they double up as a knee blanket when the temperature really does plummet. Is faux fur still in? Who cares? Get them in. In addition, glowing lamps and battery operated (to be on the safe side) candles are a must. They create a warm ambience. It’s amazing how effective little psychological tricks can be.
3. Warm colours
If you’ve decorated your log cabin in the summer months chances are you gone all Scandi. Stark white and cool blues and greys look stunning in the summer, but couldn’t be colder colours in the winter. It’s a good idea to add some splashes of bright colour, even if it’s with your accessories and a richly coloured wall hanging. Think golds, reds, oranges and burgundies.
4. Think about heating
If you’ve no electricity running into your log cabin, then bottled gas heaters are an option. You’ll need to consider ventilation because of potentially toxic fumes. It’s not a particularly cost-effective method of warming up your cabin, but it’s a popular and practical choice if there’s no chance of electricity. Hooking your cabin up to the electricity mains may seem a costly investment, but a worthwhile one if your cabin is doubling up as an office. Using electric convection heaters, or even fitting electric radiators will ensure you’re working week isn’t disrupted by cold weather. Even if your cabin isn’t a designated workspace, having an extra room to chill out in and get away from it all could save many an argument when the weather is keeping everyone at home.
If we’re talking all out luxury, then underfloor heating will knock anyone’s socks off. Literally. It’s an expensive option (more expensive to install than radiators, and potentially expensive to maintain if the floor needs lifting up), but it has definite cabin kudos. Top Tip: if your log cabin is doubling up as your office and you’re keeping your computer equipment in there, you’ll need a heater with a thermostat. Freezing temperatures can play havoc with your LCD screen and hard drive. Using a laptop you can bring into the house overnight is probably the best option during winter.
5. Blow the budget – the luxury log burner
If you’re going for style and money is no object, then a wood burner will keep you toasty all winter long, as well as bring envy from your neighbours. Wood burners look fantastic in a timber cabin. They were made for each other. You’ll need to make sure it’s professionally installed for obvious safety reasons.
6. Eliminate the drafts
It might seem like the obvious, but when you’re planning to put rugs down, put up your insulating wall hangings and arrange your cosy furniture, think about where you are putting them. Placed carefully to cover drafts your styling will double up as an insulation job.
7. A living roof
Adding a touch of nature to the roof of your log cabin, not only looks cool, it’s also great for the wildlife and it serves as insulation. It has the added benefit of acting as soundproofing too. You’ll be able to sing your heart out with as many winter wonderland songs as you like.
This is a Collaborative post in association with Lloyd Wells. Image source