9 Wood Cottage Design Tips from Builders

While most people might think that new construction is overly expensive, building a wood cottage might be more affordable than you think. Plus, building a custom wood cottage lets you create the exact layout and design you’ve been dreaming of.

At Gingrich Builders, we’ve been constructing small wooden houses for over 45 years, and in this blog, we’ll break down some of our top tips for designing a beautiful, functional wood cottage.

Read on to learn more, or click below to contact one of our expert builders:

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Design Tips for Small Wooden Houses

When building a wood cottage house, the design and layout can play a significant role in creating a cozy, functional, and aesthetically appealing space. Here are some of the best design and layout ideas to consider when building a small wooden house:

  1. Open Floor Plan: Open floor plans are ideal for smaller wooden houses as they create a sense of spaciousness by minimizing walls and divisions between rooms.
    open concept living room wood cottage design
  2. Vaulted Ceilings with Exposed Beams: Vaulted ceilings with exposed wooden beams enhance the rustic charm of a wood chalet and make the space feel larger and more open.
    wood cottage house vaulted ceiling
  3. Large Windows for Natural Light: Large windows not only brighten the interior but also help connect the indoors with the surrounding natural environment, enhancing the cottage’s ambiance.
    Wood cottage window
  4. Lofted Area: Loft spaces are an efficient use of vertical space, providing extra sleeping or relaxation areas without taking up the main floor’s square footage.
    wood cottage loft with study and reading area
  5. Natural Materials: Using wood and stone in the interior design enhances the rustic charm and connects the cottage with its natural surroundings. A fireplace is a great place to include stone!
    wood cottage bedroom design with natural materials
  6. Outdoor Living Spaces: A wraparound porch, deck, or patio can extend the living space of a small wooden house outdoors, offering opportunities for relaxation and enjoying nature.
    small wooden house patio
  7. Wood Stove or Fireplace: A wood stove or fireplace serves as both a heating source and a focal point that reinforces the cozy, rustic feel of the cottage.
    wood cottage house fireplace
  8. Efficient Storage Solutions: Given that cottages often have limited space, efficient storage is crucial to avoid clutter. Design plenty of shelving, built-in storage under stairs, lofted beds with drawers, and hidden compartments in seating to maximize space without sacrificing style.
    wood chalet kitchen
  9. Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Features: One of the perks of new construction is that you can get new, energy-efficient windows, materials, appliances, and HVAC systems. This can save money and energy in the long run.
    small wooden house kitchen

By combining these design and layout ideas, you can create a beautiful, small wooden house that reflects the charm of natural living while maximizing comfort and efficiency.

 

Wood Chalet Layout Options

The number one factor in determining the layout of a small wooden house is the square footage. Here are the typical room options of our wood chalets depending on their total square feet:

Small Wood Cottages: 1,000 sq ft – 1,500 sq ft small wood chalet

Though smaller in size, these wood chalets still make a comfortable, spacious home. You can expect two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen.

Medium Wood Cottages: 1,500 sq ft – 2,000 sq ft medium wood chalet

These more sizable wood cottage houses provide greater space for storage, hosting, and bedrooms. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms are typical for this size. You also have more flexibility as far as stories, garages, and interior layout.

Large Wood Cottages: 2,000+ sq ft large wood chalet

As you pass the 2,000 sq ft mark, you have the option of a great room, a double garage, a loft, and more. We can build as large as you like, but remember that as the square footage goes up, so will the price of construction.

At Gingrich Builders, we can customize nearly any log cabin model with wrap around porches, garages, lofts, basements, kitchens, patios, fireplaces, and more! We also offer remodeling and restoration to existing cabins!

Since we tailor all our wood chalets to the needs of our customers, we’re able to work with you to find the perfect options. If you want pricing information on your specific ideas, contact us today and talk to one of our builders:

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Design Your Wood Cottage House Today!

Building a new home offers unparalleled opportunities for customization, energy efficiency, and modern comfort—especially when you’re creating something as unique and charming as a wood cottage house. However, the quality of your home depends on the builder you choose, and that’s where Gingrich Builders comes in.

With decades of experience and a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, we can bring your custom wood cottage to life with attention to detail and personalized service.

Ready to start designing your dream wood chalet? Trust Gingrich Builders to make your new home everything you’ve imagined and more. Click below to talk to an expert builder about designing your wood cottage house:

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