Thereโs no reason why your beautiful log cabin canโt be used all year round. Thereโs a tendency for many beloved log cabins to be the jewel in the summer crown, then in winter theyโre 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.ย Even if youโve purchased a cabin without the thought of using it through the winter months, itโs 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 doesnโt have to be a mammoth project (unless you want it to be).ย 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 anyoneโs spine in the winter months. Carpet-style wall hangings do more than create a Bohemian theme to your cabin dรฉcor, they do actually serve as handy insulation too. The idea isnโt mutually exclusive. Donโt even think about wallpapering the floor, think rugs all the way.
If youโre 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. Itโs 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. Itโs amazing how effective little psychological tricks can be.
3. Warm colours
If youโve 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 couldnโt be colder colours in the winter. Itโs a good idea to add some splashes of bright colour, even if itโs with your accessories and a richly coloured wall hanging. Think golds, reds, oranges and burgundies.
4. Think about heating
If youโve no electricity running into your log cabin, then bottled gas heaters are an option. Youโll need to consider ventilation because of potentially toxic fumes. Itโs not a particularly cost-effective method of warming up your cabin, but itโs a popular and practical choice if thereโs no chance of electricity.ย 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 youโre working week isnโt disrupted by cold weather. Even if your cabin isnโt 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 weโre talking all out luxury, then underfloor heating will knock anyoneโs socks off. Literally. Itโs 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.ย Top Tip: if your log cabin is doubling up as your office and youโre keeping your computer equipment in there, youโll 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 โ the luxury log burner
If youโre 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. Youโll need to make sure itโs professionally installed for obvious safety reasons.
6. Eliminate the drafts
It might seem like the obvious, but when youโre 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, itโs also great for the wildlife and it serves as insulation. It has the added benefit of acting as soundproofing too. Youโll 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.ย Image source