Wooden cabins ooze charm, and many of us have daydreamed about what it would be like to live in one. Well, for Norwegian Log Buildings customers, that vision is becoming a reality.
John and Pearl Dier are living this dream in a two bedroom self-contained annexe by Norwegian Log Buildings, situated in their daughters garden.
Having travelled the world and stayed in wooden cabins in countries such as Finland and Switzerland, the couple dreamt of one day having their own log cabin home.
Downsizing and semi-retiring
The Dier's were finding their Grade 2 Listed home expensive to maintain and John; a chef wanted to cut down on his work commitments and reduce his commute, so the couple looked into their options when it came to downsizing.
Their daughter has a spacious garden, and after family discussions, it was decided the John and Pearl would build their dream log cabin in her garden.
Researching their options
As part of their search to find their new home, the Dier's visited the two bedroom, fully furnished cabin that Norwegian Log Buildings have on show at their Reading HQ. Viewing is by appointment only, but the Norwegian Log team will be happy to show you around. Give them a call on 0118 966 9236 to book a time.
Norwegian Log offers standard designs in both traditional and contemporary styles, these have been designed to maximise the space. They do, however, offer a bespoke design service where they will work with you to create an interior layout that works for your needs. There is a premium for this bespoke design service, as extra work is involved, but at 5% on top of the standard layout, it is, in our opinion, very reasonable.
Planning permission was not required
Working with the Norwegian Log team, the Dier's decided on the bespoke design route and created a home with two double bedrooms, dressing room, bathroom and open plan kitchen living room which leads out onto a spacious veranda - a must for the full log cabin living experience!
Planning permission was not required to build the annexe; this is because Norwegian Log's living annexes have been designed to comply with the Caravan Act.
Norwegian Log Buildings do, however, apply for a Certificate of Lawful Use on their clients' behalf. Confirming that Planning Permission is not required when the annexe is being sited in the legal garden for exclusive use by a family member.
Because the annexes are classed as mobile homes, they are also exempt from Building Regulations.
A low maintenance home
John and Pearl have left their Grade 2 Listed house which required ongoing maintenance and moved into a new home that will require very little maintenance going forward. While the interior of a log cabin annexe can be decorated, many people like John and Pearl let the natural beauty of the timbers shine.
Externally, the only maintenance required is the application of a UV-oil to maintain the lustre of the wood and stop it changing colour to a silver grey.
Short lead times
A Norwegian Log cabin is one of the quickest ways to create a home in the garden. Lead times depend on the time of year but are typically 6 to 8 weeks from placing a firm order.
Prices start at £48,000 with buildings larger than 23sqm being exempt from VAT. Fittings such as curtains and white goods are, however, still subject to VAT at the current rate.
