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Summer houses and their rustic counterpart, log cabins, have surged in popularity in recent years. Today, various designs are available, including corner types. These garden buildings have transformed once-empty corners of outdoor spaces into inviting retreats.
But are there differences between the two? With similar features, they can be easily mistaken for one another. Here, we’ll define each and outline their distinct features for better understanding.
What Are Corner Summerhouses?
Corner summer houses are designed as comfortable and inviting spaces where you can relax to spend time. They may have seating, tables, and amenities such as electricity, lighting, and insulation to make it home-like. What sets them apart from traditional four-sided models is their five-sided shape.
The pentagonal design is space-efficient, utilising corner spaces that might otherwise remain unused. For instance, having the doors located in one corner ensures you won’t need extra space to accommodate door opening angles. The BillyOh Picton Corner Summerhouse is a fitting example. It features full-span windows, a large floorplan and a tall pent roof that creates a spacious interior atmosphere.
Most are made from wood, a natural insulator and an excellent noise absorber. The timber structure also regulates heat and cold inside the summer house, making your experience comfortable.
A corner summerhouse might be the perfect choice if you want to maximise your garden without sacrificing too much space.
What Are Corner Log Cabins?
Corner log cabins are among the many garden log cabin models available. They are similar to standard log cabins except that they are tailored to corner spaces. This space-saving design allows them to be tucked away in secluded areas. Depending on the model and manufacturer, these cabins can feature angled double doors and hipped roofs. The shape also varies, with some models being L-shaped, or at least having L-shaped interiors such as the BillyOh Dojo E. .
Like corner summerhouses, corner log cabins are mainly constructed from timber. This makes them ideal for creating a rustic retreat in your outdoor space. The natural material also provides excellent insulation, ensuring comfort throughout the year.
Investing in a corner log cabin is an ideal way to infuse classic charm into your garden.
Corner Summerhouse vs Corner Log Cabin Construction
Summerhouses do what they say on the tin – they’re designed for summer living. However, their thinner walls mean they lack the insulation needed for autumn and winter. That’s the first major difference.
In contrast, log cabins are equipped with much thicker walls with options ranging from 19mm to 70mm in thickness. Summerhouses typically have 11mm walls in comparison.
The second difference is the manner in which they’re constructed (or need to be constructed). Our corner summerhouses are pre-assembled on a panel-by-panel basis in our workshop. This means you mainly need to fit the five sides together with minimal preparation.
Meanwhile, corner log cabins are delivered to you on individual boards. Though this may seem daunting, the tongue and groove construction simplifies assembly. The boards slot together like lego, with the tongue of one panel fitting into the other. This makes for a super-strength, resilient structure and also aids water-tightness.
As for the windows, summerhouses come with more windows for optimal sunshine coverage. Log cabins, being more heavy-duty, typically have fewer windows, often just one on the side.
Which Is Best for You?
It all depends on what you’re intending to use it for.
Corner summer houses are cheaper and perfect for the sunnier seasons. They are perfect if you only need an outdoor room for a few months each year and don’t plan to store items there long-term.
A corner log cabin may be more suitable if you wish to use the structure year-round, including winter. It’s also a worthwhile investment if you want a strong, sturdy building that feels more like a living space.
Nevertheless, both styles are great for their own individual purposes. Browse our range of log cabin summer houses for the best of both worlds!
Up next on your reading list: How to Build a Corner Summer House
