The Modern Cabin

From past to present, the retreat continues

- Dale Mulfinger

 In the past couple of years, I’ve observed a shift in the aesthetic directives some of my clients impart, as we are about to begin designing their cabin. Absent are the usual words of “quaint,” “nostalgic,” “rustic” and “log.” Now the words “refreshing” and” clean lines” replace those, along with “light filled” and “open spaces.” My clients still seek a place of relaxation and contemplation, but they may ask to achieve that under a non-traditional flat roof.

Modern conveniences of a bathroom, full kitchen, gas-fired furnace with air conditioning, and bedroom doors instead of curtains have all been employed in cabins now for fifty years, but they were disguised in a structure that was clad inside and out with wood, evoking a rustic style. Today exterior wood has been replaced by metal, exposed concrete or synthetic material, such as cement board. Inside, painted drywall, tiled walls and concrete floors give sway ( A ).

Some have referred to this trend as the Dwell-Ikea-Houzz movement, consumers having been influenced by products and social media. I’ve noticed that TV ads for cars, household goods and food products are much more likely to feature them inside or out of an ultramodern dwelling. Outfitting a cabin with finds from antiques is on the wane unless the stores feature mid-century modern furnishings.