Off the grid and on trend: the historic, hygge-happy, not-necessarily-humble cabin

by Debbie Kane

A symbol of American grit and resourcefulness, cabins have long captured our imagination. And as people downsize, the popularity of tiny homes, cabins, and cabin style is growing.

Be it a rustic log home, rugged mountainside retreat, or New England camp, there’s something about this natural aesthetic that just feels hygge. Pronounced “hoo-gah,” that’s the Danish term conveying coziness, simplicity and happiness.

Photo courtesy of Bensonwood

What’s behind the trend?

In a frenetic, technology-driven world, the humble, often wifi-less cabin becomes a retreat that reconnects us to nature. It’s a symbol of resilience, an opportunity for contemplation.

Poet Henry David Thoreau lived in a small cabin near his beloved Walden Pond.

Abraham Lincoln’s childhood in a simple log cabin is legend.

And it’s no surprise that bright, open timber-frame homes – built with interlocking wooden beams, posts and braces – have enjoyed a renaissance. Look no further than @cabinlove or @beautifulcabins to see how small spaces inspire people around the world.

Photo courtesy of Bensonwood

Not just logs.

Today’s cabins are much more than strategically stacked logs. Many are luxurious, meshing high-end accents with easygoing style. Even tree houses, those nostalgic childhood hideaways, are enjoying a comeback, albeit with adult amenities like plumbing and electricity.

Carolyn L. Bates Photography, courtesy Moose Meadow Lodge & Treehouse

Cabin style always embraces wood, whether a chair or rustic railing, a crackling fire in an old woodstove or fireplace, or the natural appeal of a smooth, wooden floor.

Carolyn L. Bates Photography, courtesy Moose Meadow Lodge & Treehouse

Carolyn L. Bates Photography, courtesy Moose Meadow Lodge & Treehouse

How to incorporate cabin style

A home in the woods isn’t essential to adopting the conscious coziness of cabin style. Here are a few ideas.

A lightweight wool throw adds warmth to any room, regardless of the season. In addition to adding a pop of color, it’s the ideal accompaniment when curling up with a book and cup of tea.

Garnet Hill Wool & Cashmere Throw

A hand-hooked throw rug deftly ties a room together, while cushioning feet on wood floors.

Garnet Hill Fair Isle Hooked Rug

Rustic simplicity is key to cabin style. This serene Danish-style bedroom, with its wooden bench, comfy bedding, and soft color palette, is an idyllic retreat after a day spent exploring the woods.

Taylor Wooden Bench

What’s your take on cabin style?