How-To Archives – Page 26 of 37 – Log Cabin Homes Magazine

Putting Down Roots

by Debra Grahl | photos Moss Creek | Jul 9, 2021 | Building, How-To, Planning

Allen Halcomb began his architectural design career in 1983. Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, he works from East Coast to West, as well as internationally. His specialty is working with log, timber, stone, and other natural elements to create classic, timeless designs. If there is one principle his firm, MossCreek Designs, was founded on, and which continues today, it is a dedication to the design of rustic-style homes. Be it a design based on local history and tradition, or a new style altogether, the co…

Never Better

by Donna Peak | Jul 9, 2021 | Financing, How-To

The year 2011 will be critical for housing. It’s no secret that increases in unemployment claims and foreclosures have caused the economy to tumble over the latter half of the past decade, and housing, particularly new-construction starts, has endured the disconcerting aftermath of a lack of consumer confidence. However, the fourth quarter of 2010 brought with it a slight shift in the economic outlook, and, perhaps, hope. “We all recognize that over the past several years, the h…

17 Kitchen Design Ideas

by Jennifer Donahue | Jul 9, 2021 | Designing, How-To, Kitchens, Room-By-Room

1. Consider flagstone instead of hardwood floors; it is durable enough to last in even the busiest kitchen. 2. Incorporate universal design, with wider access and lower cabinets to make the kitchen easy to use at any age or ability. 3. Add a bar-height island or peninsula to increase seating capacity. An open floorplan allows guests to linger in the kitchen without crowding out the cook. 4. Showcase your design aesthetic in your kitchen. Contemporary stainless-steel appliances or a…

Floorplan Considerations

by Laura Stapleton | Jul 9, 2021 | Building, How-To, Planning

Artistic architectural elements, a spectacular view, or even classic décor elements can combine to create a home of unspeakable beauty and functionality. But one element knits it all together: the floorplan. Whether the floorplan is selected from a design book or created as a one-of-a-kind design by a homeowner and architect team, it tells a story about a family and how they live in a home. “When considering your floorplan, think about your personal preference in regard to style…

Interior and Exterior Lighting

by Scarlett Barger | Jul 9, 2021 | Designing, How-To

An effective lighting plan adds beauty, comfort, and warmth to your home while accommodating the tasks of daily life. Balancing efficient light with rustic ambiance requires careful planning, but the results are worth it. Since log and timber homes have unique lighting needs, it’s important to seek advice from a lighting designer with experience. You could ask your home builder for recommendations or locate a Certified Lighting Consultant through the American Lighting Ass…

The Most Popular Log Home Floorplans

by Jennifer Donahue | Jul 9, 2021 | How-To, Planning

Sometimes the hardest part of building a home is figuring out where to start. That’s where ready-to-purchase (or stock) home plans can help. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic Adirondack, a quaint carriage house, a spacious timber frame lodge, or a cozy traditional log cabin, selecting a good floorplan can help ensure you’ve got all the important features in one package. There are a dizzying array of floorplans available, from spacious estates to intimate cottag…

Alternatives to Wood

by Laura Cleveland | Jul 9, 2021 | Energy Efficiency, How-To

Gas Gas fireplaces are designed to burn either natural gas or propane. They emit very little pollution, need little maintenance, and can be installed almost anywhere, especially in a new home. Gas fireplaces have BTU ratings that measure how much heat is produced by the hour. They are also rated by fuel efficiency; that is, the amount of fuel consumed to generate heat and attain the ideal BTU. Direct-vent and top-vent gas fireplaces have an efficiency rating of 40 to 80 percent, meaning that, at …

Custom Rustic Style

by Debra Grahl | All photos: PrecisionCraft Log & Timber Homes, Roger Wade | Jul 9, 2021 | How-To, Planning

True to its name, M.T.N. Architects has been designing custom high-end mountain-style homes since 1990. With an emphasis on log and timber frame design, the firm works one on one with each client to create a unique, luxurious, one-of-a-kind home. Their clientele and projects span from East Coast to West, in the USA, Canada, and abroad. Lead designer Celeste Raygosa shares her ideas and experiences in the log and timber design arena. How long have you been with M.T.N. Architects, Celeste, and what about …

The Lay of the Land

by Mike Haskew | Jul 9, 2021 | Building, How-To, Planning

The adventure of building a log or timber home begins with an idea. Then comes the challenge of making the dream a reality, and the list of items to be completed is long. Among the first and most critical elements in the journey is the selection of a building site. The characteristics of the land are the keys to the building process and to the long-term enjoyment of one of life’s greatest investments. Consider the fact that the to…

Timberhaven Log Homes

Making Your Research Count

by Mike Haskew | Jul 9, 2021 | How-To, Planning

Taking the notion of a log or timber home from idea to reality requires a great deal of patience and preparation. Like marriage, the decision to build should not be entered into lightly. So those who are wise choose to begin the process with a hefty round of research. While the reasons for checking things out and asking questions before making decisions seem straightforward enough, it’s actually a process that requires some planning and effort in its own right—particularly today wh…

A View from the Top

by Karen Doss Bowman | Jul 9, 2021 | How-To, Planning

Many people dream about a relaxing getaway, and for log home enthusiasts, a home in the mountains may be the ideal choice. Not only do the mountains offer breathtaking views, but often they offer exciting glimpses of wildlife and proximity to outdoor activities such as skiing or hiking. “A mountain home is a place that’s laid back and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” says Sarah Smith, marketing coordinator at Blue Ridge…

The Basics of Buying & Building a Log Home, Part 1

by Laura Stapleton | Jul 9, 2021 | Building, Exteriors, How-To, Planning, Room-By-Room

You have been dreaming of this home for years. You have collected a binder full of ideas and sketches of what you envision your log home to include. And now you are looking for a building site. What should you be looking for when preparing to purchase property? Here are five important factors to consider when choosing your building site. Where will you build? We all have a general idea of where we want to build our dream home. Maybe you envision your home tucked into trees on the side of a mountain or n…