5 Most Popular Log Home Designs
Whether you're dreaming of a weekend retreat, a full-time cabin in the woods, or a legacy home for generations to come, these five log home plans have earned their place at the top of the list. They’re popular for a reason- and not just because they look good on paper.
We’re talking about homes that feel like they belong in the landscape. Plans that balance craftsmanship with comfort. Spaces that welcome muddy boots, cast iron skillets, and stories told around the fire. Let’s take a look at the five most-loved designs from Moosehead Cedar Log Homes and why they might just be your perfect match.
The Franklin
Built for Big Moments and Bigger Gatherings
The Franklin is the kind of place that will be passed down for generations- a true legacy in the making. With over 4,500 square feet of living space, it’s designed for folks who want elbow room, gear storage, and a place where the whole crew can kick back without stepping on each other’s toes. Think of it as your basecamp for family reunions, hunting weekends, or long summer stays with grandkids running barefoot across the deck.
The great room is a showstopper—cathedral ceilings, exposed beams, and a central fireplace that practically begs for a roaring fire and a good bourbon. The kitchen is in the center of the action- perfect for hosting holidays or grabbing a midnight snack. There’s a walk-in pantry big enough for your cast iron collection and a dining space that opens right onto a covered porch with trusses that make a statement.
Downstairs, the master suite is a retreat all its own, with a soaking tub and a walk-in closet that could double as a fly-tying station. Upstairs, the loft overlooks the great room and leads to two more bedrooms, a full bath, and enough closet space to stash everything from snowshoes to fishing rods. And if you’ve got a sloped lot, consider adding a daylight basement for even more room to spread out.
The Franklin is for those who live large, love hard, and want a home that reflects the grit and grace of the Maine woods. It’s not just built to last—it’s built to live in.
This custom Franklin home blends effortlessly with its surroundings. Two tones of stain and a combination of horizontal and vertical log siding add dimension and character to this exquisite design.
Plenty of natural light and soaring cathedral ceilings highlight the natural beauty of cedar in this spectacular great room. The rich tones of wood paired with a stately fieldstone fireplace lend an elegance to this cozy, rustic space.
The covered front porch feels especially sturdy with stone steps, dark stained cedar, and rugged black truss plates. The wide front door is well-lit with both wall mounted and pendant lanterns, creating a welcoming entrance.
Rustic charm meets modern elegance in the kitchen, where a simple palette of earthy neutrals and slate blue-grays pairs perfectly with natural elements like leather, stone, and wood. The pickled white stain on the ceiling highlights the exposed beams adding dimension and contrast.
Furnishing with earthen tones and natural fabrics add textural layers and understated elegance, letting the craftsmanship of the woodwork take center stage.
Pickled white ceiling boards transition effortlessly to a simple patterned wallpaper, letting the black and white geometric floor panels stand as the focal point. A natural wood vanity and simple black fixtures are consistent with the sturdy, understated aesthetic of the rest of the home.
These custom built-in bunk beds maximize space with style. A simple color palette and layers of texture throughout keeps the focus on the woodwork, highlighting the quality craftsmanship and creating a sense of balance and relaxation.
Soaring cathedral ceilings with windows to the top are a hallmark of a cedar log home, and this bedroom is an elegant example of that classic style. White pickled wood throughout creates a light and airy feel to balance the rugged exposed beams and wide wood planks.
A cozy sitting area is tucked away in the loft, making the most of the square footage. Pickled white boards combined with soft furnishings in light neutral tones feel spacious and bright.
Crisp white walls and a soothing collection of gray and white marble combine to create a refreshing spa-like bathroom. A bright contrast against the warm, rustic feel of the main living areas, the design utilizes a simple color palette and classic hardware to ensure a cohesive feel throughout.
This ethereal bedroom is another example of how layering textures in light neutral tones results in beautifully well-appointed space. Adding built-in storage and a cozy bed nook are simple customizations that really upgrade a home.
The primary bedroom is artfully designed with geometric patterns throughout, while still maintaining an organic softness by layering a variety of natural materials. Pickled white wood blends effortlessly with the creamy white and gray wallpaper, creating a subtle contrast with the deep browns of the floor and furniture.
The Ashville
Rugged Charm with Room to Roam
If you’ve ever dreamed of a cabin that feels like a mountain lodge without the oversized footprint, the Ashville hits the sweet spot. At just under 1,500 square feet, it’s big enough to host the grandkids or a weekend crew, but still cozy enough to feel like home when it’s just you and the dog. The great room is the heart of the house—vaulted ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the view like a painting. Step out onto the deck and you’ve got the perfect setup for grilling, storytelling, or just watching the stars appear in the night sky.
Inside, the layout is smart and efficient. Two bedrooms and a full bath downstairs keep things simple, while the loft upstairs (with its own bath) makes a great primary suite or guest hideaway. The kitchen’s got a no-fuss vibe with plenty of space for cabinetry, bar seating, and modern appliances. And the mudroom? Built for real life. Just add ski racks, coat hooks, and a bench for a look that says “kick off your boots and stay awhile.”
Whether you’re coming in from the lake or heading out on your bike, the Ashville blends rustic craftsmanship with practical comfort. It’s a log home that feels like it’s been part of the landscape forever, but with just enough polish to make it yours.
Featuring floor to ceiling windows and a large front deck, the Ashville log home plan gives the grand, spacious feeling of a mountain lodge in a modest footprint that keeps the daily routine easy and organized.
In this version of the Ashville, round log purlins and a sturdy log truss make for a warm, welcoming entry. The covered porch details like a wrought-iron lantern and cheerful teal door add to the rustic, friendly feel of this home.
The spacious deck off the great room is ideal for outdoor entertaining, complete with a covered side porch perfect for a stack of firewood and a grill.
With soaring windows, round log purlins, and a cozy fieldstone fireplace, the great room embodies the rustic grandeur of log home living.
Floor to ceiling windows take in the forest views by day, while understated track lighting offers a soft glow when the sun goes down. The warm cedar tones complement the wooded landscape beyond the deck, and unlike pine which tends to turn a dated brassy gold with time, Northern White Cedar will simply lighten a bit with age if left untreated.
The stairs to the loft are situated along a The hallway leading to two first floor bedrooms- a practical use of space in this compact design.
Sleek, stainless steel appliances are tucked neatly into Shaker-style cabinets for an understated and practical look. A half-lite door leads to the mudroom beyond.
The spacious dining area fits a table large enough for entertaining, but bar seating in the kitchen is just right for a quick snack. Touches of matte black throughout lend an understated elegance to this light-hearted space.
This simple L-shaped bar makes meal prep a breeze. Soft denim blue cabinets break up the warm wood tones, and keeping the countertop a simple neutral gray ties it all together. The large apron-front sink and simple cabinet hardware are both functional and timeless.
The mudroom offers a cheerful welcome, with plenty of natural light and practical storage solutions on every wall. A sturdy wooden bench, large stone tiles, and wooden walls and ceiling make for a seamless transition from outdoor adventures.
A cozy, rustic bedroom offers a serene retreat. The plush light carpet and soft bedding are a soft contrast to the solid wood of the walls, ceiling, and furniture. Simple matte white wall sconces add a touch of modernity while still coordinating with the understated, gentle feel of the room.
Practical shaker cabinets continue into the bathrooms, this time in a soft, misty gray. A little sparkle in the gold pendant light and faucet are a perfect complement to the warm cedar tones and dark gray tile.
The Haystack
Classic Cabin Meets Craftsman Cool
The Haystack is a log home with a little swagger. It’s got that timeless cabin silhouette, but you can give it a modern edge by choosing clean, Craftsman-inspired details. Think black metal railings, square beams, and a wraparound deck that’s built for entertaining.
Inside, the layout is smart and stylish. The mudroom is bright and spacious, perfect for shedding gear after a day outdoors. The great room soars with two stories of windows and a vaulted ceiling that floods the space with light. The kitchen and dining area are open-concept, with a hard working island, practical layout, and easy access to the porch and deck.
The master suite is tucked away on the first floor, offering privacy without isolation. Upstairs, two more bedrooms and a full bath make the loft feel like a retreat of its own. Exposed beams, cozy dormers offer a true log cabin feel.
The Haystack is for folks who want the warmth of cedar logs with a touch of contemporary flair. It’s a cabin that feels handcrafted—but never old-fashioned.
This cedar log home truly evokes a sense of place. The surrounding woods are the perfect backdrop to the natural logs, and the floor to ceiling windows and wraparound deck make it easy to connect with nature.
The wraparound deck offers plenty of space for outdoor dining, relaxing, and entertaining. The square railing with black metal balusters adds a modern touch to the rustic logs.
Natural elements like wood, stone, and leather pair effortlessly with neutral tones and simple furnishings. Bathed in natural sunlight, this living room is a bright, modern take on classic lodge style.
The open-concept dining room and kitchen is large enough to seat a crowd, but still efficient for everyday practicality. A painted island with white countertops makes the perfect accent to the natural cedar tones.
The dining room is flooded with natural light, thanks to floor to ceiling windows and two glass doors opening to the deck. The vaulted ceiling and simple chandelier add a crowning touch.
The white stone countertop adds a contemporary touch, balanced with rustic elements like sturdy black cabinet hardware and a timeless farmhouse sink. Understated pendant lights add functionality without overwhelming the design.
Rustic bathroom with wood panel walls, double vanity with white countertops, round mirrors, black fixtures, and a bathtub with a white shower curtain. Hexagonal floor tiles and hanging towel rack.
The cozy loft space overlooks the great room; black railings reflect the contemporary style of the exterior deck railings and truss brackets.
The first of two upstairs bedrooms, this room showcases the architectural beauty of a log home with exposed beams on the walls and ceiling. Incorporating walls with simple drywall is a great way to make a log interior feel more contemporary.
The Cumberland
One-Level Living with a Whole Lot of Style
The Cumberland is a log home that knows how to make the most of every inch. With three bedrooms and two baths all on one floor, it’s perfect for folks who want easy living without sacrificing character. From the outside, it’s got that classic cabin look- cedar logs, covered porches, and a layout that feels both welcoming and efficient.
Step inside and you’re greeted by a vaulted great room with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. The kitchen is centrally located for convenience, but still maintains its own distinct sense of space. The island is long and open- ready for pancake breakfasts or prepping the day’s catch.
The master suite is tucked to one side with its own deck access, walk-in closet, and private bath. On the other side, two guest rooms share a full bath, and one even opens to the front deck- perfect for a home office, reading nook, or bunk room for grandkids. And if you opt for the walkout basement, you’ve got a whole second living space below, complete with a kitchenette, bunk room, and mini great room.
The Cumberland is for those who want simplicity, style, and a home that works as hard as they do. It’s a cabin that feels just right—whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet weekend in the woods.
This custom home is based on the Cumberland model, a classic log home layout featuring a large central great room with floor to ceiling windows and covered porches on both sides. Among other upgrades, this version adds a walkout basement and an expanded deck across the front.
The great room features impressive cathedral ceilings with exposed square trusses, detailed with matte black plating for an industrial touch. This sturdy framing is anchored by plush, casual furnishings for a beautiful balance of comfort and durability.
A mix of open shelving and cabinets maximizes storage in this classic L-shaped layout. The island, with its extra thick countertop and square edges, is a substantial, anchoring element- an important consideration in an open concept kitchen. Upper level windows and a simple yet striking chandelier add light from above, illuminating the space with a warm glow.
The main floor bedroom is a bold celebration of natural wood- from the walls, floors, and ceiling to the doors and furniture, this room simply glows with the rustic warmth of wood.
This bedroom continues the rustic industrial style with a sliding barn door on sturdy black hardware. A colorful quilt adds a layer of soft texture, creating a harmonious and restful space.
The main floor bunk room is a cozy retreat, with a sturdy log bunk bed, colorful bedding, and a big soft area rug to tie it all together.
By making use of open shelving, bright white tiles, and a glass shower door, this efficiently-sized bathroom feels bright and spacious.
The Lakeside
Built for Waterfront Weekends and Woodsy Escapes
The Lakeside is a log home that knows how to make the most of its setting. Whether it’s perched beside a quiet lake or nestled deep in the woods, its flying gable and covered porch give it a silhouette that’s both classic and practical—especially in northern climates where weather rolls in fast.
Step inside and you’re greeted by a vaulted great room that feels open and airy, with a front deck just off the living space for morning coffee or evening fireside chats. The L-shaped kitchen is tucked neatly into the corner, making it easy to cook without missing the conversation. Two bedrooms and a full bath round out the first floor, offering just enough space for guests or grandkids.
Upstairs, the loft adds flexibility—use it for extra sleeping space, gear storage, or a quiet reading nook. With timber rafters and open views to the great room below, it’s got that cozy-meets-functional vibe that makes a house a home.
The Lakeside is for folks who want simplicity, style, and a cabin that feels like part of the landscape. It’s easy to maintain, quick to heat, and ready for whatever adventure you bring home.
