Blog - Page 84 of 123 - Handmade Houses with Noah Bradley

A few dollars more

Here we have an interesting, and very attractive, outbuilding behind one of the historic homes at Colonial Williamsburg.

This little shed would cost only a little bit more to build than those pre-assembled units found at the local lumber supplier.

Originally posted 2015-12-01 13:14:10.

A few dollars moreNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:07+00:00

Why?

I wonder how many people walk by this cabin and fail to pause a moment to look her over?

I doubt many.

This small home certainly has it’s problems and shortcomings. For one thing, it’s likely a bit dark and damp inside having been built so close to the ground and with so few windows.

And yet, we are drawn to this structure, issues and all.

Why is that?

Originally posted 2015-11-30 14:32:55.

Why?Noah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:06+00:00

Wow… just… wow.
Notice the massive stones used in the corners and above the windows of this home.
Elsewhere, smaller (much easier to lift) stones make up the rest of the home.
The stones were all laid in an “eye appealing”, and structurally-strong, horizontal pattern.
This home is a fortress, built for the centuries ahead.

Originally posted 2015-11-29 16:49:01.

Stone HouseNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:05+00:00

A board-and-batten retreat home

A rustic retreat home… oh, the benefits of board and batten siding.

Among the benefits… low priced, locally sourced, easy to install, and natural look. For those seeking a rustic log cabin but price is an issue consider the potential of this material, for the entire home, or for part of it.

Originally posted 2015-11-29 16:12:09.

A board-and-batten retreat homeNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:04+00:00

Outbuildings

A “homeplace” is more than just a house.
The surrounding outbuildings are just as important to the daily lives of those who live there. Outbuildings tend to draw us out of the main house where we will then find ourselves enjoying the great outdoors.
And that, is a good thing.
Focused attention needs to be given to these minor structures with regard to design and location.

Originally posted 2015-11-29 15:29:43.

OutbuildingsNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:03+00:00

A great design for a hillside home

A “whitewashed” mountainside cabin.

Notice how well she fit’s the site. And how well a walk out basement works on a slope.

Originally posted 2015-11-28 14:29:17.

A great design for a hillside homeNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:02+00:00

Location, location, location

May you find your dream home beside the still waters.

Originally posted 2015-11-28 14:10:46.

Location, location, locationNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:01+00:00

Poplar logs

These are poplar logs… one of my favorites.

Poplar logs are often among the widest logs found on old cabins.

Poplar is an abundant species of wood, it grows straight and relatively knot-free, and it is a joy to hew and notch. These massive logs tend to “soften” in appearance as they age and are quite tempting to caress with the hand as they will not splinter. They are also among the best logs for insulation R-values.

I have no idea why log cabin kit homes do not offer poplar logs… it’s baffling to me.

If you look closely you can see that wire lathing has been applied between the logs and it is now ready for an application of mortar.

Originally posted 2015-11-28 13:51:46.

Poplar logsNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:25:00+00:00

Vernacular roof

The cabin may be small.

But, the roof is tall.

The roof is dramatic isn’t it?

Here in Virginia this roof would appear odd, but over in Scandinavia, this roof would be perfect.

Building a home in an area so that it appears to belong there should be the goal of every builder.

Originally posted 2015-11-28 13:26:22.

Vernacular roofNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:24:59+00:00

Building a dream

One day you will have the home of your dreams (if you don’t already).
Perhaps next Thanksgiving having a home like this will be on your list of “things to be thankful for”.

Don’t be concerned if you don’t know where to begin… if you have found your way to this site… if you find yourself looking through the images here and have been reading my short commentaries on them… congratulations, you’ve already begun!

Originally posted 2015-11-26 16:25:01.

Building a dreamNoah Bradley2019-06-29T10:24:58+00:00