What's Up With All Of Those "Log Cabin Homes?"

Since the beginning of 2005 when I first became aware of the Log Home/ Rustic

Decorating Style, it seems to have grown more and more popular. There are several

magazines such as: "Log Home Living", "Log Home Design Ideas", "Timber Frame

Homes", and others totally focused on that decorating style.

There is a long list of Builders, (Heritage Log Homes, Katahdin, Cedar Log Homes,

Lincoln Logs, just to name a few) that specialize in Log Home construction.

There are Log and Timber Home Shows in several states - throughout the year exhibiting models of log homes and other products related to that type of home style.

Because Log Homes and a Rustic Decor are so very distinctive, it does not appeal to

everyone. I have to admit that my own decorating preference is Contemporary/Modern.

However, since I have a weakness for Model Homes and Decorating Magazines, I found

myself going through the Log Home magazines and finding many beautiful, inviting

homes.

It's hard not to appreciate the richness of a well crafted all wood home. The coziness of a

furniture grouping around a huge stone fireplace and the warmth of a real wood interior

combine to make a perfect home for those who live in the colder climates.

The key here, is finding a quality builder. (OK - that advice could be used for just about

any home). But wood, if not properly treated - can deteriorate rapidly - I had a wooden

deck built on my house and in less than five years it changed from beautiful to warped

and splintery. In addition to being unattractive, it was actually dangerous.

So, research the builder, the products he intends to use and talk to prior customers.

When it comes to decorating, your Log Home - warm, rich, "nature" colors work well,

such as red, cream, tan, brown, deep green, slate blue, burgundy - in stripes, plaids and

rustic muted prints.

Windows are often left "natural" without any coverings - sometimes taking up the whole

side of the building, maybe even two levels high, providing light and a decorative element. For those who prefer some type of covering for privacy or added decorative effect can use blinds, a translucent half curtain, or a fabric-covered cornice with a simple drape. Ruffles or heavy ornate draperies don't fit with this decorating style.

Floors are wood, or ceramic tile in muted neutral colors, with an antique or rustic style

area rug used in the seating, and dining areas. Carpeting, if used would be flat pile

"industrial" type.

Kitchen cabinets as well as any other "built-ins" are finished to preserve the "natural"

wood. Accessories used are from "the woods" and "nature" to further the rustic theme.

Real deer or moose antlers become light fixtures. Rawhide lampshades, twig wreaths,

pine cone centerpieces all further the "outdoorsy" feel.

The layout is generally open in the living/entertaining area - the "Great Room / Lodge"

style, and bedrooms are off to the side or on another level.

Don't be fooled by the title "rustic" - the Log Home style when built by a reputable builder, finished and furnished with quality products can be quite spectacular.

There is a page on my website that gives some resources for more information.

About the Author: Rosemarie Zera "The Model Home Addict" loves Decorating, Visiting Model Homes, Furniture Stores, Home Shows, Reading Decorating Magazines and Browsing Decorating Websites. After over ten years of running a Bookkeeping Business she has decided to spend time on her passion. More information and resources can be found on website: [http://www.decorating-secrets.com] and BLOG: http://modelHomeaddict.blogspot.com

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