Wooden houses have a significant place in the history of the UK. Log structures in England, for instance, have had great influence in the field of building construction and architecture, with log houses in the UK being around for several centuries. Contemporary log cabins have evolved from their simple and basic features to more complex, aesthetically remarkable, and functional units. There is no doubt that timber houses are extremely popular in the UK and other corners of the globe.
Wooden Houses in Ancient Britain
Based on historical accounts, the first log homes were built in the northern regions of Europe over 5000 years ago. The origins of wooden houses have been traced back to the Scandinavians. Some of the oldest and even millennia old log structures were found in Scarborough in close proximity to North Yorkshire. There are also log homes in Cambridgeshire that are believed to have existed as early as 1000 BCE.
People in ancient times used wood as it is a natural element or material that is easy to find. Wood is a good material of choice in building houses and settlement sheds. However, wooden houses were replaced with houses made from clay bricks and stones in the years that followed.
Log Houses in Medieval Britain
The medieval period saw the comeback of wooden houses. Other European nations had a profound influence on the popularity of log houses, particularly to England. Timber framed houses were popular during this time. Half-timbering was also a preferred process used for log house building in medieval Britain. Oak was a popular material due to its durability and strength.
Popular Medieval Log Structures in the UK
There are various magnificent wooden houses and buildings in the UK, particularly in England. Here are some of the notable log homes and structures on the list:
- Stokesay House
This log house was one of the first of its kind. It is a medieval era log home built in the country. A lot of other wooden houses were constructed during that time, but Stokesay House went beyond that time with its durable and strong foundation. Lawrence of Ludlow built the log structure in 1281 and after England’s Civil War in 1645, the front wall of the log house was demolished. However, all the rest of the log building has remained up to this time.
- Harvington Hall
Nicholas Owen was a mason and carpenter who built this wooden structure in the 1580s. Unlike other wooden houses in medieval times, Harvington Hall remains steadfast and liveable up until the present. It also highlights the half-timbering process of construction, where the logs were vertically cut in half.
- Little Moreton Hall
This unique log house is more evidence of the popularity of wooden houses in the UK. Built in England in 1610, this timber home is still one of the most famous log structures in the country. It also shows the use of half timbers which is a distinct log house building method used exclusively in England. You cannot find log houses made with half timbering method elsewhere in the UK.
- Tudor Houses
The large and lavish semi-wooden homes left an indelible mark in the history of wooden houses in England. These houses are made with the combination of wooden panels, bricks, and plasters. This unique mixture offers structural support while retaining the classic aesthetics of wood. Timber framing is basically used in this type of house for decorative purposes.
More Popular Wooden Houses in Contemporary UK
Modern day Britain continuously witnesses the popularity of log structures. Holiday houses mainly consist log buildings and structures. A lot of UK residents and foreign guests prefer holiday retreats in these relaxing and beautiful log houses. On top of the cosy and warm ambiance, most wooden houses are located in the hearts of forests or other natural environments. The location automatically gives these log buildings a panoramic backdrop.
Wooden houses are also available for rent in most parts of the UK. Timber houses and log cabins nowadays serve not just a secondary or holiday home. Most people are switching to turning log houses into primary residences. This is the ideal choice if you want to make a healthy shift of lifestyle and away from the hustle and bustle of city living.
Investing in Wooden Houses in the UK
The demand for log cabins in Europe is on a steady rise. Luxurious and lavish timber houses are promising investments whether for a primary residence or a source of income through rental. There are various options if you want to invest in wooden houses in the UK today.
Look for certified log house manufacturers that offer affordable timber houses. These wooden houses could be installed in places outside the city limits. You can also have a log cabin installed in your garden and serve as an additional liveable space. The choice is yours. Some log structures serve as a residence while others are office spaces. You can find lightweight log homes that you can even build and assemble on your own.
Log Home Cost and Strength
The cost of wooden houses depends on various factors such as the overall scale of the project. The location where the log structure was sourced also influences its value or price. Timber construction is highly recommended because it is much cheaper compared to steel-frame or brick structures. It is also durable and low maintenance thus giving you a lot of savings in the long run.
Hardwood and other wood species are highly recommended for their durability and strength. In fact, a lot of residential log cabin have stood the test of time. The first log homes were built more than 5000 years ago in Northern Europe. There are still physical proofs of these log structures until the present.
The popularity of wooden houses in the UK is evidently real, then and now. Log structures have a promising and lucrative future ahead. There’s no doubt that log house construction is not going anywhere. Invest in a timber house today and enjoy a rustic, simple lifestyle.
