The Family Cabin: Inspiration for Camps, Cottages, and Cabins

by Dale Mulfinger

Dale Mulfinger is widely acknowledged as the foremost expert on cabins in North America. His first book, The Cabin: Inspiration for the Classic American Getaway, has sold almost 200,000 copies and has consistently been the leading book in the category since it was published in 2001. In this new collection of 37 cabins, Mulfinger rekindles his love for this treasured American icon with fresh insight and seasoned strategies for the logic, utility, and beauty of cabin design.

While Dale's earlier books have focused on smaller cabins (1,600 sq. ft. and below), this one will be less about size and more about the living experience. The Family Cabin will feature new and old family compounds from across North America, much as The Cabin and Back to the Cabin have done. New structures explore the prospect of family bonding, where old ones tell the tales of generations of family use. Since the beginning of the 20th century, cabin retreats have had a unique place in the lives and lore of many American families. In the 21st century, cabin creation continues with new forms and materials that give shelter at nature's doorstep.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference, Architecture

272 pages, Hardcover

Published September 12, 2017

Reviews

[Colona Public Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love love love looking at this book and daydreaming about having a cabin to share with my loved ones. The pictures in this book are amazing and my favorite thing about this book is that it include the layout to the cabin. Wow, you really like the particular look of one you could probably make your own! (Maybe someday~) This is a really nice book to look through if you, like myself, daydream about having a nice place to call home. I'm giving it 4 stars because I've only looked at the pictures. I'm sure it's an informative read as well! ~Ashley

[Jenny]

This book reaffirmed Maine is my favorite and my best.

[Angeline Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a lover of Laura Ingalls Wilder and no where near a minimalist at heart, I hold a deep love for the warm and cozy interior decoration of cabins. This book is worth picking up for these pages alone: 15, 22, 79, 178, 185, 196, 209, 211, 223, 226*
*my favorite

[Amanda up North]

I've just checked out and perused about a dozen heavy books on cabins and cottages. I spent more time on this— and others by this author— than the rest. Mulfinger is a Minnesota architect. Lots of classic log cabins on MN lakes I know, as well around the US and Canada. Some historic, some ultra modern. Real cabins here. (No pools!) Lots of timbers and stone, fireplaces and wood stoves, porches and lofts.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having been interested in log cabin living since watching some related television programming, this book gives history and ideas on various log cabins that have been built throughout the United States--mostly the northeast and Minnesota. What looks like great fun for families on which to build memories it has a good many pictures and floor plans to examine if interested.

[Colette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun and relaxing book to daydream with. I was able to imagine myself away from the 100°+ desert into lush, cool, refreshing landscapes. The photographs are beautiful and the writing gives character to each cabin. I’m also a sucker for floor plans. Someday, maybe someday I’ll have some pretty property.

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gorgeously photographed book of aspirational cabins on picturesque lots around the United States. Along with several photos of each cabin, the book includes a simple blueprint of each cabin and a description of how the cabin fits the site and the family's needs.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a bit of eye candy but it’s organized and I found myself strongly drawn to and away from certain types of cabins in specific sections of this book. The discussion was easy to read and serves as nice inspiration for a someday retreat

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative, focused on key features of each cabin, provided simple blueprints, great font size and clear medium to large images.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picked this up more for the pictures! I live in a beautiful river house, but I love looking at other homes that are near water, or not, that are wood inspired.

[Dara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the stories about each cabin and why the home owner chose it. The layouts of the house were so enjoyable to see in addition to the beautiful photos.

[Max · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice getaway dream book

[AngelaC · Rating 4 out of 5]

We went through this one together a few times. It helped us to define what we like/prefer - and not! Interesting stories on how families find/acquire/use cottages Thru the generations.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful pictures. It had me daydreaming of a peaceful, cabin vacation.