Imagine escaping the stress of a busy life to immerse yourself in the tranquility of your very own rustic cabin retreat. For this reason, explore our collection of rustic cabin plans and some free DIY cabin plans you can sample. Finally, learn the essential steps to help you turn that dream into a reality.
From selecting the perfect floor plan to adding the finishing touches, we will guide you through the process of building your cozy cabin in the woods. Also, check out the tips from DIY builders just like you. Most importantly, they are sharing their real-life experiences of building a small cabin, from foundation to interior finishes.
1. Rustic Cabin Plans – Olivia
This unique round floor plan offers an unusual take on rustic cabin design. With 418 sq ft of space and a 161 sq ft wrap-around porch, you can comfortably relax in this ECO cabin after a day of hiking, fishing, or mountain biking.
Surprisingly, round houses are popular designs ranging from tiny granny pods to impressive multi-million dollar villas. What are some of the benefits of round design? Here is the partial list:
- the most economical in terms of exterior walls vs interior space
- require less building materials
- cheaper to build
- earthquake resistant
- maximum exposure to sunlight
- panoramic views
- low energy consumption
Consequently, check out our in-depth analysis of Round Houses: 5 Reasons Why You Should Build One. So, while picking your perfect small cabin plan, keep in mind the benefits of round design.
2. Small DIY Cabin – Peggy
Among all the mini house plans we featured over the years, this simple one-bedroom, one-bath floor plan checks a lot of boxes:
- small footprint approx. 20′ x 23′
- 1 bedroom 1 Bath
- loft
- porch
As a result, this floor plan makes a perfect cozy cabin in the woods, in-laws cottage, backyard guest house, or rental ADU. With 382 sq.ft. of space and a 65 sq.ft. porch, this tiny house is perfect in its simplicity.
3. Small Cabin Plans with Loft – Kia
Are you looking for both space and functionality in rustic cabin plans? For this reason, check out the small cabin Kia with 443 square feet of living space on two levels.
First, the cabin greets you with a mud area and storage space for your coats, boots, and gear. On the ground floor, enjoy an open-concept living room with a small kitchenette and a fireplace to warm up the cabin. Furthermore, sliding doors lead to an open porch so you can watch the sunrises and sunsets in style.
Second, access the loft space via a staircase where you find two spacious bedrooms. Also, there is only one bathroom (on the ground floor), which saves you money in the building process as plumbing is expensive.
4. Small Cabin Plans with Loft and Porch – Eric
This rustic cabin has a simple floor plan featuring a spacious living area, a kitchen, and a bathroom with a shower on the first floor. Furthermore, it offers a spacious porch – a must for a cozy cabin in the woods!
What makes this small cabin floor plan unique? Check out the loft space and the design of the balcony. As a suggestion, the window placement over the staircase would give more light when you need it most. Also, it will make the corner usable for a built-in bookshelf or open storage.
5. Eco-Friendly DIY Cabin ‘Amanda’
Dreaming of building a rustic cabin? Check out ‘Amanda’ – 652 sq.ft. of space, open-concept, loft, porch, one bedroom, and one bath.
This small house is elevated on stilts from the ground. As a result, you can place it where seasonal flooding can cause problems. With an enormous wrap-around porch, it is a dream space for outdoorsmen and lovers of nature.
6. Rustic Tiny Cabin ‘Lara’
GET TINY CABIN PLANS LARA HERE
This set of rustic tiny cabin plans offers a perfect solution when you need to build a backyard shed, a home office, or an occasion guest house – all in one. Indeed, 257 square feet of space gives you lots of functionality.
The floor plan boasts an open-concept living/kitchen area with plenty of natural light. Also, there is enough storage for your belongings. Additionally, access a wrap-around porch through glass doors to enjoy a cup of coffee or BBQ with friends.
7. Modern Rustic Cabin Plans – Elle
GET MODERN CABIN FLOOR PLANS ELLE HERE
What to explore what it takes to make your dream of a modern rustic cabin a reality? Check out the story of bringing Elle to life – from floor plans to an off-grid small cabin. Ember, a DIY builder, not only nearly completed this off-grid cabin but poured her incredible creativity and talent into the project.
Check out her progress and photos of the cabin as she continues on her journey. With 821 sqft of space, an enormous wrap-around porch, and 2 bedrooms, this solar-powered cabin is a DIY masterpiece.
8. Tiny Rustic Shed House ‘Nora’
Whether you are dreaming of building a tiny shed house or a small backyard ADU, ‘Nora’ can be your solution. With 367 sq.ft., 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 207 sq.ft. porch, there are plenty of features to enjoy. Furthermore, you’ll find a mud room and storage – something a lot of DIY cabin builders are looking for in rustic cabin plans.
9. Rustic Cabin ‘Quinn’
GET SMALL CABIN PLANS QUINN HERE
If you are searching for classic rustic cabin plans, take a look at 320 square feet cabin ‘Quinn.’ With a cozy porch, a downstairs bedroom, and an open-concept main room, this small cabin has lots to offer. Furthermore, you’ll find a mudroom with storage and a spacious bathroom. Just imagine watching sunsets in a rocking chair on this porch!
10. Gambrel Barn House Oaklynn
For more timeless charm, check out Oaklynn’s curb appeal. This rustic country house boasts 539 square feet of space on two levels.
Furthermore, with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it is perfect for a small family. Additionally, a 427-square-foot feet covered porch gives plenty of space for entertaining guests or enjoying outdoor country living.
11. Tiny Rustic Cabin with Loft and Porch – Lori
GET TINY CABIN PLANS LORI HERE
If you are looking for a tiny space with a loft and a porch, ‘Lori’ can be your friend. Check out the functionality of this space: 317 sq.ft., open-concept living area, downstairs bedroom, two porches (covered and open), and loft. Most importantly, there is plenty of charm in this tiny modern cabin!
Essential Steps to Build Your DIY Rustic Cabin
Finally, you’ve checked this collection of rustic cabin plans and are ready to start building. What’s next? Here are some important steps to help you map out your journey:
- get a book: How to Build a Tiny House
- decide if you want to do all the work yourself or hire a professional for some tasks (foundation, electrical, plumbing, A/C, etc)
- get building tools (listed in the book)
- sample some free plans and try building a garden shed or shed house to master your skills
- read some of the real-life stories of DIY builders to avoid mistakes and pitfalls
- pick up a cabin floor plan that meets your needs – more plans to explore HERE
- start on your DIY building journey
Get a Book – How to Build a Tiny House, Cabin, or Shed
Well, you may not be an experienced DIY builder with a dream to create a small rustic cabin. In that case, get a book and learn all the steps first. It has 276 pages and 1000 illustrations to guide you through the process.
In fact, it will be your ‘go-to’ guide when you start building. It has information on:
- the basic tiny house typology
- detailed illustrations for navigating construction stages
- choosing the most suitable building materials
- the step-by-step process from the foundation to the roof;
- how to connect your house to utilities;
- how to fix basic problems in your construction.
Sample some of the pages HERE.
GET HOW TO BUILD A TINY HOUSE BOOK
Notably, if you buy any of the rustic cabin plans, you get a free e-book PDF download with your purchase, along with FREE DIY Furniture Plans.
Sample Free Rustic Cabin Plans
Rustic cabin plans professionally designed by an architectural team of PinUp Houses are easy to use. To prove it, they are offering a collection of the most popular designs, each with a comprehensive material list inside. For each design, you can get a FREE SAMPLE PLAN or PREMIUM PLAN.
Whether you need a small rustic cabin for a peaceful getaway, a shed for your garden tools, or a small shed house for compact living, download these FREE PLANS and start building.
Gathering Materials and Tools
When gathering materials and tools for your rustic cabin project, it’s important to take into account the specific requirements of your design plan. Consider the type of wood you will need for the walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as any additional materials such as insulation, roofing materials, and windows.
Each premium plan comes with a list of all the tools you will need for construction, including saws, hammers, drills, and measuring tools. It’s important to ensure that you have everything you need on hand before beginning the building process to avoid delays or interruptions.
By carefully planning and organizing your materials and tools, you can set the foundation for a successful and efficient construction process that will bring your rustic cabin to life.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Now that you have the solid foundation and sturdy frame of your rustic cabin in place, it’s time to add the finishing touches that will truly make it feel like home. Consider adding some personal touches, such as custom woodwork, handmade furniture, or charming decorations that reflect your personality and style.
Moreover, outdoor elements like a quaint front porch, a cozy fire pit, or a relaxing hammock can enhance the rustic charm of your cabin and provide additional space for enjoying the great outdoors. Finally, think about practical details as well, such as storage solutions, lighting fixtures, and heating options to ensure that your cabin is both functional and comfortable.
Also, by paying attention to these finishing touches, you can elevate your rustic cabin from a simple shelter to a warm and inviting retreat. So take your time, get creative, and make your cabin a place that truly feels like your own little piece of paradise.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out these collections of plans to find your match:
- 12 DIY Small Backyard Cabin and Shed Ideas and Plans
- 9 Modern Cottage House Plans
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Meaning, Pros, Cons, and Floor Plans
In Conclusion
In conclusion, with this collection of free sample plans and 11 rustic cabin plans, you are equipped to embark on the exciting journey of building your small rustic retreat. From selecting the perfect location to building a proper foundation, each step plays a crucial role in bringing your dream cabin to life.
Remember, planning and knowledge are key ingredients to success in this endeavor. So, start today and watch as your vision transforms into a cozy haven amidst nature’s beauty. Happy building!
