Modern Cabin
For many of us, the cabin is the embodiment of retreat, relaxation and reconnection to nature. The cabins of the past were simple, honest structures raised with the primary purpose of providing shelter from the elements. Over the years the cabin has evolved both in its style and materiality, and today advances in its design and construction to reveal shifting ideals and attitudes about getting away from it all.The contemporary cabin strikes a careful balance between surroundings and form. It speaks to a sophisticated design aesthetic-even if it has a rustic façade. It incorporates up-to-date materials and state-of-the-art techniques, including prefabrication. It is built to last and in some instances places being friendly to the environment at the top of its priorities list. For despite its dramatic shift from the log cabin of yesteryear, the modern cabin at its core hasn't changed: it is still that quiet place where reflection and recreation thankfully edge out the duties of everyday life.In Modern Cabin, author Michelle Kodis presents twenty-two cabins in a variety of locales across North America. The settings are equally varied: rural, suburban and urban to illustrate that creating the perfect retreat is possible anywhere. The cabins range from a tiny outbuilding rescued from the ravages of time to a high-tech dwelling equipped with smart-house technology. Organized into three sections for easy reading-Updated Rustic Charm, Beyond the Traditional Cabin and Into the Future-Modern Cabin is the ultimate guide to bringing your own personal haven to life.Michelle Kodis has a master of science degree in journalism from Columbia University and is the author of the Gibbs Smith, Publisher books Blueprint Small: Creative Ways to Live With Less, Blueprint Affordable: How to Build a Beautiful House Without Breaking the Bank, Blueprint Remodel: Tract Home Transformations That Turn Everyday to Extraordinary, Ultimate Backyard: Inspired Ideas for Outdoor Living, and Ultimate Outdoor Kitchens: Inspirational Designs and Plans. She lives in the mountains of Colorado, where she is currently at work on more home design books.