10 Most Innovative Designs of 2023: Cabins

2024 is around the corner, and we’re having a look at some of the exceptional architectural designs we covered in 2023. If you’re searching for a cozy and quaint cabin to get away to and relax, then you’ve reached the right spot. Cabins are by far the best type of vacation I’ve come across. They’re a peaceful and tranquil option to abandon your urban life and woes, and simply unwind in nature. If you’re wondering where to head for your next cabin retreat, then you can refer to this collection of beautiful and super cozy cabins that we’ve gathered. They’re the perfect haven nestled amid nature, providing you a break from your everyday hectic life – and we’ve curated our best cabin designs from 2023 for you!

1. Space of Mind Cabin

Dubbed the Space of Mind cabin, this 100-square-foot prefab cabin was designed by the Finnish architecture studio Studio Puisto during the pandemic. It is an adaptable cabin that can be built almost anywhere and used as a garden office, or an off-grid holiday retreat.

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes the Space of Mind cabin unique is that it is modular, and can be used as a garden office or an off-grid holiday retreat as mentioned earlier. It is a flexible space designed to offer people a home away from home, making them feel comfy no matter what.

What we like

  • It features a modular structure that can be utilized for various functionalities

What we dislike

  • There isn’t any option or alternative to customize the interior of the cabin

2. Kjerringholmen Cabin

Called the Kjerringholmen Cabin, this unique cabin in the Hvaler archipelago occupies 63 square meters and has a cozy and spacious appeal that instantly makes you feel at ease. As you enter the cabin, you are welcomed by an airy and calming vibe that is rarely seen in homes.

Why is it noteworthy?

Kjerringholmen is proof “that large houses don’t necessarily mean more quality of life. In just 63 square meters, with smart planning, it still has plenty of usable space,” said the studio. Although it occupies only 63 square meters, it is a spacious home supported by steel pillars, while being surrounded by a dusky rocky landscape.

What we like

  • The cabin perfectly merges with the natural landscape, which offers a surreal ambiance
  • The cabin is designed to support a smart way of living

What we dislike

  • The home may go unnoticed by birds, and they could crash into it since it merges so well with its surroundings

3. The Romotow

Dubbed the Romotow, this one-of-a-kind trailer features a fixed chassis that supports the rotated closing living unit. The trailer can swivel around at a full 90 degrees to form a fully functioning cabin with an extra outdoor living space.

Why is it noteworthy?

During transit, the 30.5ft Romotow remains closed, however, when it is stationed for overnight camping, the main living unit with panoramic glass windows on both sides can be swiveled, creating two sections – a large deck, and a sleeping/living cabin.

What we like

  • Equipped with a 395W solar panel on the roof which supports an off-grid lifestyle

What we dislike

  • The trailer needs to rotate a complete 90 degrees, and that free space may not always be available, which can be inconvenient

4. Shiship Cabin

Dubbed Shiship, this stunning seasonal cabin is built from a repurposed shipping container. Designed by Repère Boréal, this cabin is located in Quebec, Canada, and the name translates to ‘duck’ in the indigenous Innu language.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabin is a modern and contemporary version of a wilderness cabin, and it is equipped with space-saving custom-made furniture designs, and other smart features. It is 31 feet in length and 8 feet wide and is clad with durable cedar wood planks, which form a thick frame, and offer the space a natural and contemporary aesthetic.

What we like

  • The kitchen and bed are connected via a built-in wine rack, which also doubles up as a night table, uniting the two space

What we dislike

  • The cabin is a bit cramped, and not well-suited for bigger families

5. The Nest

Called the Nest, this stunning property in Hocking Hills, Ohio is designed to enjoy and experience the natural beauty of the hills. The cabin is quite comfortable and cozy, specifically the living room, which is excellent for movie nights with your family and close friends!

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabin features an outdoor patio with a DIY suspended bed which is made with a recycled trampoline, that is an excellent spot to lounge about in. The Nest features a unique layout that gives the impression that the space is bigger than it is. This makes the cabin stand apart from other tiny homes on the market.

What we like

  • Features a unique and innovative layout that makes it seem much more spacious and airy than it is

What we dislike

  • Not everyone may like the barn-style door since it is quite old-fashioned and doesn’t provide much privacy

6. Hideaway House

Called the Hideaway House, this lovely little home is tucked away amid nature, providing a surreal and secluded cabin that is ideal for a weekend getaway. You can only access the home through a tucked-away road at the base of the mountain, hence making it a bit difficult to reach.

Why is it noteworthy?

Nestled on a 52.7-acre private mountain, the Hideaway House is a blackened timber cabin that is surrounded by lush green ancient forests, creating a living space with a vibrant and enticing connection to nature, making it the perfect fit for a peaceful vacation.

What we like

  • The home has access to stunning views of British Colombia’s Gulf Islands
  • It has a lovely indoor-outdoor connection to nature

What we dislike

  • The home is quite difficult to get to since only a tucked-away road leads to it

7. White Rock Cottage

Dubbed the White Rock Cottage, this stunning elevated cabin is nestled on a forested hillside in Nova Scotia. It is a cozy cabin that is wrapped in corten steel and occupies almost 1500 square feet in a lush green five-acre property in Gaspereau River Valley.

Why is it noteworthy?

This surreal cottage is blessed with views of the valley as if it is neatly perched on a steep incline. You can enter the home via a tight driveway, and a grave footpath, but you may need to climb it slowly, and it can take quite some time to reach.

What we like

  • Functions as a serene space for residents to connect with nature

What we dislike

  • It is an elevated cabin, hence it might be inaccessible for some people with physical disabilities

8. Trakt Forest Hotel

The Trakt Forest Hotel in Småland is a collection of five lovely and cozy suites that are supported by five stilts, which gives the visitors the impression that they’re chilling amongst the tree canopy! It is designed to “put nature in focus”, and the cabin is accompanied by a restaurant and sauna in the complex.

Why is it noteworthy?

While building the cabins, the studio wanted to create minimal disturbance to the surrounding landscape, and hence they positioned the suites on steel columns placed on concrete plinths. The cabins were constructed using locally-grown wood.

What we like

  • Allows you to chill amongst the tree canopy
  • Built using locally sourced wood

What we dislike

  • Deserves a gallery/balcony to improve the experience

9. Casa Monoculo

This stunning contemporary home is called the Casa Monoculo and was designed by Alan Chu. It is nestled above a densely forested area of Eldorado and is elevated above the ground, providing a unique and innovative twist to the concept of treetop living.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is not simply an ordinary treehouse, it is spacious and modern, no different than any of the finely done villas you see today. It provides expansive views of the beautiful surroundings while creating a luxurious living experience.

What we like

  • Provides a luxurious and cozy treetop living experience with a unique twist

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t seem like the house can accommodate a large number of guests, better suited for smaller parties

10. NKN-18 Cabin

Nokken recently introduced the NKN-18 – a cutting-edge and revolutionary 18 sqm that provides versatility in the form of customizable options and accessories.

Why is it noteworthy?

The NKN-18 Cabin by Nokken is created for various configurations and features co-branded bespoke designs. The cabin is designed to be a plug-and-play solution that can meet the diverse needs and requirements of people.

What we like

  • The exterior can survive harsh climatic conditions
  • Robust and durable design

What we dislike

  • A minimal and simple cabin, so not very well-suited for those who prefer more amenities

5 of the Best Cabins You Need To Visit For Your Next Weekend Getaway

If you’re looking for a stunning little cabin in the woods to get away to and simply relax, then you’ve reached the right place. Cabins are by far the best type of vacation I’ve come across. They’re a peaceful and tranquil option to abandon your urban life and woes, and simply unwind in nature. If you’re wondering where to head for your next cabin retreat, then you can refer to this collection of beautiful and super cozy cabins that we’ve gathered. They’re the perfect safe haven nestled in the midst of nature, providing you a break from your everyday hectic life. From the ultimate contemporary cabin to an elevated cabin in Nova Scotia – these mesmerizing and surreal cabins are the ultimate retreat, you’ve been searching for. Plan your next vacation in one of them!

1. Space of Mind Cabin

The Space of Mind cabin is a 100-square-foot prefab cabin designed by the Finnish architecture studio Studio Puisto during the pandemic. It is an adaptable cabin that can be built anywhere.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Space of Mind cabin can be utilized as a garden office or even an off-grid holiday retreat. The cabin is modular in nature, making it a flexible space that provides people with a home away from home.

What we like

  • Modular structure that can be used for various functionalities

What we dislike

  • There isn’t any option to customize the interior of the cabin

2. Kjerringholmen Cabin

Dubbed the Kjerringholmen Cabin, this unique cabin is located on the Hvaler archipelago, and it occupies 63 square meters with a spacious and airy vibe.

Why is it noteworthy?

Kjerringholmen is proof “that large houses don’t necessarily mean more quality of life. In just 63 square meters, with smart planning, it still has plenty of usable space,” said the studio. Occupying 63 square meters, the cabin is supported by steel pillars and surrounded by a dusky rocky landscape.

What we like

  • Blends perfectly with the natural landscape, creating a surreal ambiance
  • Designed extremely efficiently and consciously to support a smart way of living

What we dislike

  • Birds may not notice the home and could crash into it since it merges so perfectly with its surroundings

3. The NKN-18 Cabin

Nokken recently introduced the NKN-18 – a cutting-edge and revolutionary 18 sqm that provides versatility in the form of customizable options and accessories.

Why is it noteworthy?

The NKN-18 Cabin by Nokken is created for various configurations and features co-branded bespoke designs. The cabin is designed to be a plug-and-play solution that can meet the diverse needs and requirements of people.

What we like

  • The exterior can survive harsh climatic conditions
  • Robust and durable design

What we dislike

  • A minimal and simple cabin, so not well-suited for those who prefer more amenities

4. The Hideaway House

Dubbed the Hideaway House, this quaint little home is nestled in the midst of nature, and can only be accessed via a tucked-away road at the base of the mountain.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Hideaway House is a blackened timber cabin, and it is nestled on a 52.7-acre private mountain while being completely surrounded by lush ancient forests.

What we like

  • Has access to picturesque views of British Colombia’s Gulf Islands
  • Facilitates a lovely indoor-outdoor connection

What we dislike

  • The home is quite difficult to get to since only a tucked-away road leads to it

5. White Rock Cottage

Called the White Rock Cottage, this pretty elevated cabin is located on a forested hillside in Nova Scotia. The cozy cabin has been wrapped in Corten steel, and it occupies 1500 square feet in a five-acre property in the Gaspereau River Valley.

Why is it noteworthy?

The enchanting cottage is gifted with views of the valley since it is deftly perched on a steep incline. It can be accessed via a tight driveway, and a gravel footpath, although you need to climb it slowly, and it can take a while to reach.

What we like

  • Allows its residents to reconnect and rejuvenate

What we dislike

  • Elevated cabin might be inaccessible for some people with physical disabilities.

These Modular Micro Cabins Have A Price Tag of $31K & Can Be Built Almost Anywhere

During the pandemic, the Finnish architecture studio Studio Puisto designed the Space of Mind Cabin. The 100-square-foot prefab cabin is designed to be adaptable and can be built anywhere. It can be used as a garden office or even an off-grid holiday retreat! Studio Puisto designed it in collaboration with the furniture brand Made By Choice, as a solution to the isolation people felt during the pandemic, providing them with a space to unwind and relax in.

Designer: Studio Puisto

“The cabin was designed to emphasize how a minimal space with only the essentials can allow us to enjoy what matters most,” said company cofounder Willem van Bolderen. “It’s a modern, mass timber cabin constructed from Finnish wood that acts as a dedicated space to unwind, think, and recharge.” It’s been several years since the first Space of Mind cabin was built, and it is now primarily targeted at hoteliers who want to create relaxing holiday retreats. The cabin is modular in nature, making it a flexible space that provides people with a home away from home.

The Space of Mind cabins feature a lightweight wooden structure that measures under 10 square meters, making for a compact and cozy structure. They are prefabricated in the factory to minimize damage to the site and ensure that the structures can be easily and efficiently transported and erected in remote locations. You can clad the structures in larch wood, black tar paper, or galvanized steel with standing seams, while the foundations are constructed from removable helical piers or lightweight concrete. This allows the cabin to smoothly adapt to different climates and ground conditions.

“To make Space of Mind available to even the most remote of locations, it was strategically planned to be light enough for transportation by crane or helicopter with a resilient foundation that supports almost any site,” said the studio. “This, in turn, adds to its versatility, ultimately creating an opportunity where we have the freedom to tailor a spatial experience to our exact needs.”

There are currently two versions available – the flat-pack versions for customers outside the Nordics which start at around $30,475, and the fully assembled version which is priced at $54,848.

Meet The A-frame Club: A Series Of Prefabricated A-Frame Cabins In A Snowflake Pattern

In Winter Park, Colorado are 31 A-frame cabins in a hexagonal arrangement called the A-frame Club. Designed by Skylab Architecture and completed this year, the prefabricated cabins are a rejuvenated and upgraded version of traditional ski chalets. With a contemporary twist, the compact and adorable cabins form a snowflake pattern across the three-acre lot. Occupying 23,450 feet, the project “takes design cues from 1970s American ski culture and the iconic A-frame cabins of that era,” said the studio.

Designer: Skylab Architecture

The entire project is a combination of raised cabins and a network of boardwalks that allow guests to interact with the mountain site, without harming the trees and natural watershed. It provides guests with an opportunity to completely immerse themselves in the natural landscape and beauty of the woods by the Fraser River. The cabins occupy 475 square feet and were prefabricated in Los Angeles by Plant Prefab, and assembled on-site.

The picturesque cabins feature steep black metal roofs that support warm vertical cedar boards. They are highlighted by tall triangular windows under the eaves that allow natural light to stream into the interiors while providing stunning views of the mountains. Inside, the cabins hold a living room, kitchenette, and bathroom, as well as a lofted bedroom space.

“The cabins are designed for adaptability. The lofted bed is accessible by a ship’s ladder, and the living room couches can be folded out. Guests are in control of their space, from individual keypads for self-check-in to simple, automated controls for heating, cooling, and lighting,” said the studio.

The interiors are quite warm and welcoming. They are lined with warm-toned cedar panels and custom millwork. Custom Malm fireplaces and vintage furnishings adorn the insides of the cabin – inspiration is drawn from classic ski advertisements. “Tactile custom finishes – including breeze blocks, bespoke woodwork, stained glass, leather upholstery, and even Noguchi-style lighting – emphasize craftsmanship while natural elements like cedar infuse a sense of warmth,” said the studio.

The cabins were also designed to be eco-friendly, as they are incorporated with energy-efficient heating, lighting, and low-flow fixtures. Since they are prefabricated, this also reduces material waste and allows them to be placed around mature trees without disturbing them.

Top 10 Cabins Designed To Be The Ultimate Vacation Retreat For Your Family & You

If you’re looking for a stunning little cabin in the woods to get away to and simply relax, then you’ve reached the right place. Cabins are by far the best type of vacation I’ve come across. They’re a peaceful and tranquil option to abandon your urban life and woes, and simply unwind in nature. If you’re wondering where to head for your next cabin retreat, then you can refer to this collection of beautiful and super cozy cabins that we’ve gathered. They’re the perfect safe haven nestled in the midst of nature, providing you a break from your everyday hectic life. From a tiny cabin with a unique layout that makes it feel larger than it is to an elevated cabin in the Brazilian forest – these mesmerizing and surreal cabins are the ultimate retreat, you’ve been searching for. Plan your next vacation in one of them!

1. Kjerringholmen

Called the Kjerringholmen Cabin, this unique cabin is located in the Hvaler archipelago, a true island paradise in Norway. The cabin occupies 63 square meters in size and has an incredibly spacious and airy vibe.

Why is it noteworthy?

Kjerringholmen is proof “that large houses don’t necessarily mean more quality of life. In just 63 square meters, with smart planning, it still has plenty of usable space,” said the studio. Occupying 63 square meters, the cabin is supported by steel pillars and surrounded by a dusky rocky landscape.

What we like

  • Blends perfectly with the natural landscape, creating a surreal ambiance
  • Designed extremely efficiently and consciously to support a smart way of living

What we dislike

  • Birds may not notice the home and could crash into it since it merges so perfectly with its surroundings

2. The Hideaway House

If you’re in search of the picture-perfect cabin getaway, then look no further! The Hideaway House is a lovely little haven nestled away in the midst of nature, and you can only access it via a tucked-away road at the base of the mountain!

Why is it noteworthy?

It is a blackened timber cabin that is nestled on a 52.7-acre private mountain and is completely surrounded by lush ancient forests. A 700-meter drive through the ancient forest leads you to the summit of a vast natural reserve 500 ft above sea level, which accommodates this reclusive modern residence.

What we like

  • Has access to picturesque views of British Colombia’s Gulf Islands
  • Facilitates a lovely indoor-outdoor connection

What we dislike

  • The home is quite difficult to get to since only a tucked-away road leads to it

3. The Nest

Nestled in Hocking Hills, Ohio, The Nest is a beautiful property to enjoy the natural beauty of the hills. The home is comfy and cozy, especially the living room which is great for movie nights!

Why is it noteworthy?

The outdoor patio has a DIY suspended bed made with a recycled trampoline, which makes for a great spot to lounge about in. The Nest has a unique layout that makes the home feel much larger than it is, allowing it to stand apart from typical tiny homes on the market.

What we like

  • Unique layout that makes it seem much more spacious and airy than it actually is

What we dislike

  • Not everyone may like the barn-style door since it is quite old-fashioned and doesn’t provide much privacy

4. Casa Monoculo

The Casa Monoculo is a beautiful contemporary Brazilian home designed by Alan Chu. It is located above the densely forested area of Eldorado, and is in fact, elevated above the ground, and a unique twist on the concept of treetop living.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is not simply an ordinary treehouse, it is spacious and modern, no different than any of the finely done villas you see today. It provides expansive views of the beautiful surroundings while creating a luxurious living experience.

What we like

  • Offers a luxurious treetop living experience with a twist

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t seem like the house can accommodate a large number of guests, better suited for smaller parties

5. The Hide Cabin

The Hide Cabin is designed by Inclume Architects and is a compact little cabin in the remote woodlands of Thetford, England. The cabin functions as a protective enclosure for bird watchers, nature lovers, and walkers.

Why is it noteworthy?

It allows visitors to completely immerse themselves in the woodlands, allowing them to truly reconnect with nature, and observe the wildlife, without disturbing the land in the least.

What we like

  • It causes minimal disturbance and damage to nature and habitats of wildlife
  • The rustic cabin draws inspiration from its natural surroundings

What we dislike

  • The cabin is quite small, and can’t accommodate more than one person

6. Cabin Anna

Called Cabin Anna, this modular cabin is located in the De Biesbosch National Park. It is the latest version of the Cabin Anna which became extremely popular in 2016.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is designed to be utilized as a small compact home. It features a ground floor, mezzanine sleeping areas, a kitchen, a bathroom, and an outdoor shower. “In wintertime, Anna’s insulated wooden shell keeps the warmth inside like a thick winter coat. In spring or autumn, the glass keeps the rain outside or lets the sun in to warm up the space,” said the architect.

What we like

  • The sliders can be manually operated, allowing residents to experience a sense of closeness with the surrounding environment

What we dislike

  • They don’t offer an electronic opening version of Anna

7. Iwi Cabin

The Iwi Cabin is really an innovative and unique design! It features a space-maximizing design that can be easily compressed and expanded. It is essentially an accordion-shaped shed, that allows city dwellers to expand space in urban apartments.

Why is it noteworthy?

When the Iwi Cabin is fully expanded, it unfolds and occupies almost 91 square feet, and when it is folded and compressed, it occupies only 26 square feet. The Iwi Cabin is super easy to operate since owners can push and pull the shed, owing to the wheel system that allows it to be swiftly and efficiently handled and stored away.

What we like

  • The cabin is resistant to rain, wind, and sunshine
  • The interiors are outfitted using cork and sheep’s wool which provides insulation to the cold

What we dislike

  • The cabin features only one door/window, hence it is the only source of ventilation in the cabin

8. Cabins in Farouche Tremblant

A series of A-frame buildings populate the Devil River’s Valley with the Mont-Tremblant National Park in the background. The Farouche Tremblant agrotourism site includes four rental micro-cabins, a cafe, and a farm.

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed by the Canadian architecture studio Atelier l’Abri, the buildings are meant to “recede in the landscape”. The studio designed that function as a basecamp for visitors who want to visit Devil’s River and Valley.

What we like

  • Features outdoor decking and a glazed gable end which enables visitors to truly make the most of the vistas of the surrounding natural landscape

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics of the cabins are a bit old-school

9. Bathhouse

This bright red cabin on the seafront in Hankøsundet, Østfold is called the Bathhouse, and it is inspired by traditional Norwegian boathouse aesthetics. It features a red color exterior to pay homage to the same.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabin was built for a client who lives near the coast and aims to be a ‘modern reinterpretation’ of traditional Norwegian boathouses. The studio used contemporary materials and techniques to create this lively-looking cabin since the client wanted a space that was both modern and traditional.

What we like

  • The cabin perfectly mimics a traditional boathouse
  • The living area is covered by a second layer of timber planks, angled at 45 degrees, which aim to create a sense of privacy

What we dislike

  • The open panels in the living room aren’t the best option for those who like arranging the angle and privacy of their windows

10. ‘A House’

‘A House’ is a minimalist Nordic cabin located in the stunning wooded region of Lilla Kilskäret, an island of the Swedish archipelago near Stockholm. It was designed as a cozy summer home for a young couple.

Why is it noteworthy?

‘A House’ beautifully captures minimalist Nordic architecture, and its picturesque surroundings help to create a space that is truly calming and peaceful. The site and local building regulations were quite challenging, and hence the home needed to occupy a tiny footprint, and perfectly blend in with its surroundings

What we like

  • The single open merge perfectly merges with the surrounding landscape, creating the sensation of being at one with it

What we dislike

  • The home may not be private enough with its 3 walls being made of glass