Everyone loves summertime. The kids are out of school, the weather’s warm, and daylight lingers long into the evening hours. It’s a magical time of year.
Whether you’re thinking about building a log cabin home for summer vacations or for your primary home, these summer must-haves will help you create an inviting retreat for family and guests.
Outdoor Entertaining
Being outdoors is synonymous with summertime fun. Keep your guests comfortable even after the sun sets with these outdoor entertaining must-haves.
Cozy seating – A semi-enclosed seating area is the perfect gathering space on your deck or porch. Consider a modular sectional sofa, which you can reconfigure according to your needs.
Bistro lighting – Create a warm, inviting atmosphere for family and guests with strings of Edison-style bistro bulbs. These durable, weather-resistant lighting systems are easy to hang from wall to wall, on your deck overhang, or with a few simple posts.
Games – Keep a variety of fun games on hand the whole family can play, like Giant Jenga, Twister, cornhole, and Yardzee (yard Yahtzee).
Blankets – Don’t let a chill in the air drive your guests inside. Stock up on moisture-resistant outdoor blankets (a wool or polyester blend are good choices) to keep everyone cozy after dark.
Insect control – Mosquitoes are serious party crashers. Thankfully, there are lots of eco-friendly ways to keep them at bay. Try citronella candles, fans (bugs hate wind), essential oils like witch hazel, and insect-deterring patio plants.
Indoor Entertaining
The party doesn’t have to stop after dark or in the heat of the day. Here’s how to keep the fun going indoors.
Board games and card games – A collection of board games and card games will provide hours of fun and friendly competition. Choose a mix of classic favorites and newer games, so there’s something for everyone.
Movie night essentials – Fire up the big screen TV or set up a portable screen and projector and get ready for movie night. Put out a selection of movies suitable for all ages, and don’t forget the popcorn, snacks, and drinks!
Sound system – Good music makes everything better. Install a stereo system for a spontaneous dance party or background tunes while you play games. Use portable wireless speakers to bring the music outdoors.
Snack and beverage station – Set up a designated area for snacks and beverages. Offer a variety of treats like sandwiches, chips, nuts, cookies, and fruit. Don’t forget to include a selection of beverages for the kiddos and adults. A snack and beverage station allows hosts to relax and take part in the festivities, too.
Summer Décor
Here are some ideas to create a summertime vibe in your cabin:
Local natural elements – Embrace your surroundings by incorporating natural elements into your home décor. Create a bouquet of wildflowers from the field out back, or assemble a display of twigs and pinecones from the woods around your property.
Light and airy textiles – Swap out heavy winter fabrics for light and airy materials. Let in the summer breeze with sheer or lightweight linen or cotton drapes. Opt for light-colored cushion covers, tablecloths, and linens that feel bright and cheery.
Summer-inspired decorations – Introduce summer-themed decorative items such as beach-inspired signs, a sunflower wreath, or rustic lanterns. Create a vibrant table centerpiece by filling a rustic wooden bowl or a clear glass vase with lemons, limes, and oranges for a pop of cheerful color.
Build Your Summer Cabin with eLoghomes
Whether you love the woods, the lake, or wide-open spaces, there’s no better place to spend summers with family and friends than at your very own log cabin.
Building a log cabin home is easier than ever with eLoghomes. Our log home kits streamline the home-building process. Our floor plans have been expertly designed by master architects and can be customized down to the last detail.
Search our catalog of more than 200 log cabin models to find your perfect home, from 400 to 4,000+ square feet!