Log Home Decorating

Log home decorating presents some distinct challenges that other interiors do not. Hanging artwork can be difficult, and painting the walls should only be attempted as a last resort. However, some homeowners embrace these challenges, relishing the unique aesthetic that log homes offer.

While a log home can be decorated to reflect any style, most homeowners prefer a more rustic appearance. However, there are a few obstacles to consider before purchasing furnishings.

Most of the furniture that is available in local furniture stores will not be appropriate for your home. The pieces may be too large, or they may be too formal for the space you wish to create. This is often particularly a problem with living room furniture, which tends to be oversized.

If this is a concern, consider specialist furniture for your home. Rustic barnwood furniture, for example, would complement the interior of most log cabins and can be made to order. For those homeowners that want their furnishings to signify their environmental values, green design furniture will reflect that commitment.

While paint and wallpaper aren't an option for log home decorating, carefully chosen artwork and other pieces can add color and interest to the walls of your home. Always choose art that has some personal value. Photographs tied to the house or the area you live in are often a good place to start. If you are looking for historical photographs, often local historical societies will make reproductions of old images for a small fee.

Another way to decorate a log cabin is to hang objects on the walls that will function as art. This could be a collection of objects that are no longer used, such as lanterns or irons, or items that represent a hobby such as fishing.

Most log cabins have hardwood floors. While adding rugs is often a good idea, it may be difficult to find a pattern that is not too ornate or too contemporary for your home. Stay away from Oriental rugs or floor coverings that are brightly colored or geometric in design. Instead, look for a neutral colored rug available in a natural fiber.

Log homes can benefit from these items that will add color and personality to any space.

Throw pillows are a functional way of adding color to a space. While some people may prefer to have purely decorative pillows, consider choosing larger pillows in heavier fabrics that can withstand some use. This will help preserve the rustic appearance of the cabin.

Encourage the occupants of your house to take the time to read a book by having a wide selection of reading materials. Beautiful hardback books can be found used and double as a design element when they are carefully stacked in a bookshelf.

Take advantage of the views outside of your windows by framing them simply. Sheer curtains may be a good solution if you have few privacy concerns where you live. A bold color can also help distinguish the window, encouraging the occupants of the log cabin to take a look at the view.

Before beginning your log home decorating project, consider subscribing to several of the log home lifestyle magazines. These periodicals often contain several photo spreads of log cabins, which can be an excellent way to gather new ideas. Tear out a few of your favorite homes and make note of how the homeowners dealt with the specific design challenges that their home had.

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