We decided to build a small cabin on our plot. Our approach was simple: limit new purchases and utilize already available materials, which allowed us to conserve natural resources and reduce our carbon footprint.
From Reclaimed Materials
We started the project by gathering materials that we had on hand. It turned out that our neighbor had several wooden beams from unused pallets—perfect for the foundation of our work. We planned the cabin to be 2.5 m by 2.5 m, which perfectly matched the dimensions of the OSB sheets we had for the floors, walls, and roof.
Simple Foundations, Big Difference
We opted for simple foundations, considering that the structure might be temporary, although experience teaches that such solutions often prove durable. We used cut beams, which we protected from external factors with a special protective agent purchased at a local garden store.
No Windows and Handmade Doors
At this stage, we decided against installing windows, focusing instead on constructing doors from OSB sheets. After securing them to the frame, we installed hinges and then adapted the sheets to create functional doors. This was not only a cost-effective solution but also gave us full control over the shape of the project.
Roof Covered with Roofing Felt
We covered the roof of the cabin with top-layer roofing felt, which is an economical and effective solution for protection against adverse weather conditions. This simple material ensures the solidity and longevity of our structure.
We hope that our project will be successful and enable the storage of items on the plot, minimizing the need for their transportation.
Do you have similar experiences? Share them in the comments!
Our Plot Step by Step – The Whole Series
- Buying a plot with no power, water or access road
- Levelling the land with an excavator
- Our first cabin made of OSB boards (this post)
- A house for mason bees
- A treehouse for the kids
- A wind turbine for an off-grid plot – which one to choose
Our First Cabin – FAQ
How big is our cabin?
2.5 × 2.5 m – we matched it to the size of the OSB boards we had, so almost nothing needed cutting.
What did we build the cabin from?
From what we had to hand: wooden beams from unused pallets from our neighbour (for the base) and OSB boards for the floor, walls, roof and door. We covered the roof with cap-sheet roofing felt.
How do you make a simple foundation for a garden cabin?
We used cut beams treated with a wood preservative bought at a local garden shop.
How do you make a cabin door from OSB?
We screwed the board to the frame, fitted hinges and adjusted the boards to make a working door. At this stage we skipped windows.