A garden summerhouse or log cabin is the perfect addition to any outdoor space, providing a tranquil space to relax and unwind or a practical space for extra storage. With a variety of sizes, designs and finishes available, there's something to suit everyone's needs. From simple, rustic log cabins to luxurious summerhouses with log cladding, there are plenty of benefits, options and features to choose from. Not only do they add an extra layer of comfort and style to your garden, but they also provide an extra level of security. Whether you're looking for a space to relax and entertain or just a secure way to store your garden tools and equipment, there's plenty to consider when choosing the perfect garden summerhouse or log cabin.
What is a garden summerhouse or log cabin?
A summerhouse is a simple, typically wooden, uninsulated structure that can be freestanding or attached to your house to provide you with additional space to relax and enjoy your garden. As they are not fully insulated, they can get a little chilly in the winter months, however, they are a great option if you want to enjoy your garden year-round. Summerhouses are often more decorative and ornate than the humble log cabin, which is a small, insulated building that is usually attached to a wall of your house for extra storage space and/or privacy. A log cabin is usually insulated and fully furnished, often with a kitchenette or other amenities, as well as a fully furnished interior. Log cabins are often larger than summerhouses and can come in a variety of styles and designs. Log cabins can be freestanding or attached to your house.
Benefits of garden summerhouses and log cabins
Increased comfort and style - A stylish summerhouse or log cabin can add an extra layer of comfort and style to your outdoor space. Extra storage space - An insulated garden summerhouse or log cabin can provide a practical space for extra storage. Privacy and security - An attractive building, such as a log cabin, can provide a secure way to store appliances and gardening tools, as well as provide privacy if you want to use it as a changing area or sun lounge. Ways to enjoy your garden year-round - A summerhouse or log cabin can be a great addition to any outdoor space, providing a tranquil space to relax and unwind when it's too cold to enjoy the garden.
Options and features to consider when choosing a garden summerhouse or log cabin
Style and design - The style, design and finish of your garden summerhouse or log cabin will have a big impact on the aesthetic of your outdoor space. With a variety of styles, sizes and materials available, there is something for everyone. Sizes - Garden summerhouses and log cabins come in a range of sizes, from small, single-person summerhouses to larger, fully-furnished log cabins that are great for entertaining and providing extra space for guests. Materials - The materials used to build your garden summerhouse or log cabin will have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space. There is a wide variety of options available, with new materials such as pre-fabricated timber, delivering a modern and stylish look.
Summerhouses vs. Log Cabins
Summerhouses and log cabins are essentially the same things, however, there are a few key differences to be aware of before choosing your garden building. A summerhouse is typically smaller and more ornate than a log cabin, as it's not fully insulated, so it's not suitable for all-year-round use. A log cabin is fully insulated and often larger than a summerhouse, making it a better option if you plan on using the space for entertaining or storing equipment. A summerhouse is often a garden building with a roof and no walls, making it the perfect place to relax in your garden, even during the winter months. A log cabin, on the other hand, is fully furnished with a roof, walls and a floor and is suitable for all-year-round use, making it a great option if you're looking for a space to entertain guests.
Tips for choosing the right garden summerhouse or log cabin
Decide what you want to use the building for - Before you start looking for a summerhouse or log cabin, it's important to decide what you want the building to be used for. Do you want it as a quiet space to relax or somewhere to entertain guests? Or maybe somewhere to store gardening equipment? Once you know what you want to use the building for, you can start to narrow down your options based on size, materials, etc. Take your style and aesthetics into account - When you're browsing through the range of garden buildings available, it's important to take your style and aesthetics into account. Consider what you're trying to achieve with your outdoor space and how a garden building could help you achieve that.
Popular building materials for garden summerhouses and log cabins
Wood - Wooden garden summerhouses and log cabins are a traditional choice and can add a touch of charm to your outdoor space. They come in a range of styles, finishes and types of timber, making them suitable for most gardens. Pre-fabricated timber - Pre-fabricated timber is a modern option that is quick and easy to install and has a sleek, stylish finish that can be used for both summerhouses and log cabins. Concrete - A concrete garden summerhouse or log cabin is a great way to add a modern twist to your outdoor space and make it stand out from the crowd.
Garden summerhouse and log cabin sizes
There is a range of sizes available for both summerhouses and log cabins, making them suitable for all gardens. Smaller log cabins are great if you're short on space, while larger buildings are ideal if you want a space for entertaining or storing gardening equipment. Small - A small garden summerhouse or log cabin is a great choice if you're looking for a smaller space to relax in or if you're short on space. These are often available in single-person designs, making them perfect for a small garden. Medium - A medium-sized garden summerhouse or log cabin is often found in gardens with a larger outdoor space and is a great choice if you're looking for a larger building to relax in. Large - A large garden summerhouse or log cabin is a great choice if you're looking for a building that will be suitable for entertaining and storing gardening equipment.
Accessories to add to your garden summerhouse or log cabin
Flooring - A flooring option is essential if you plan on using your garden building regularly, as well as providing a stylish addition to your outdoor space. Storage - A storage solution is a great way to maximise the space in your garden building and provide a practical place to store items such as gardening equipment. Shelving - A shelf is a great way to add a stylish finishing touch to your garden building and provide a practical place to store items such as books and magazines. Furniture - A furniture option is a perfect way to style your garden building and provide a comfortable place to relax in your garden.
Garden summerhouse and log cabin insulation
It's important to consider the insulation of your garden building, as you don't want to get caught out in the cold when the weather turns. If you want to be able to enjoy your garden building all year round, you need to make sure it's properly insulated. Some buildings come pre-insulated and for others, you can easily add insulation to yourself. Before you choose your building, check that it is insulated and how much insulation it has. A garden summerhouse or log cabin that is fully insulated is the best choice if you want to enjoy your building, no matter what the weather brings.
Maintenance and care tips for garden summerhouses and log cabins
Wood - When it comes to wood, you need to make sure you protect it from water damage and rot. To do this, you will need to seal your wood every six months or so. Concrete - To keep your concrete garden building looking like new, you will need to re-seal it every few years.
Conclusion
A garden summerhouse or log cabin is the perfect way to add extra space to your outdoor space and provide you with a tranquil escape when you need it.