Dale Mulfinger, a renowned architect and author specializing in cabin design, shares his passion for all things cabins. He discusses what truly defines a cabin and the powerful emotional connection we have with them. The conversation touches on Scandinavian hygge and the unique experiences encapsulated in vacation activities. Dale also reveals common myths about cabin building, urging listeners to consider the balance of tradition and innovation in design. Personal anecdotes and insights about the impact of nature on architecture make for an engaging exploration.
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Cabin Etymology
The word "cabin" comes from the Latin word for "hut".
"Cabana" is a related term, and "cabinology" was coined in relation to Dale Mulfinger's work.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Discovering Cabinology
Alie Ward discovered the term "cabinology" in a magazine while at a family reunion in Montana.
This inspired her to interview Dale Mulfinger for her podcast.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Origin of "Cabinologist"
Dale Mulfinger was dubbed a "cabinologist" by a radio personality after researching cabins with his students.
He embraced the term, writing a book titled "Cabinology."
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This book, guided by architect and cabinologist Dale Mulfinger, helps readers make their cabin dreams a reality. It covers every aspect of cabin ownership, from choosing a site for a new cabin to remodeling an old one, and includes tips on selecting the right fireplace. The book is filled with photos of cabins of various sizes, detailed design tips, and stories from other cabin owners. It aims to inspire and guide readers through the process of creating their own private hideaway.
The not so big house
a blueprint for the way we really live
Sarah Susanka
Published in 1998, 'The Not So Big House' by Sarah Susanka revolutionized home design by advocating for a 'build better, not bigger' approach. The book encourages homeowners to focus on the quality of their homes rather than the quantity of space. It provides guidelines for creating homes that are more livable and comfortable, using architectural elements such as framed openings, spatial layering, and variations in ceiling height. The book also emphasizes the importance of designing homes around the actual lifestyles and needs of the occupants, ensuring that every room is used every day and that the home feels more spacious despite being smaller in square footage.
The family cabin
Dale Mulfinger
In *The Family Cabin*, Dale Mulfinger examines the role that cabins have had and continue to have in family bonding and as repositories for family history, nostalgia, and cherished memories. The book features 37 new and old cabins from across North America, showcasing their design and the family lore behind them through 300 lush, full-color photographs and 78 illustrations. It highlights the enduring symbol of rugged American individualism and self-reliance that cabins represent.
The family cabin
Inspiration for Camps, Cottages, and Cabins
Dale Mulfinger
In 'The Family Cabin,' Dale Mulfinger delves into the significance of cabins in American family lives, highlighting their role in family bonding and as keepers of family history, nostalgia, and cherished memories. The book includes 37 examples of new and old cabins from across North America, accompanied by 300 full-color photographs and 78 illustrations. It showcases the aesthetics and design of these cabins, which have become symbols of rugged American individualism and self-reliance. The book is an inspiration for anyone seeking to create a peaceful retreat, whether in a rural or urban setting.
The Cabin
The Cabin
Inspiration for the Classic American Getaway
Susan Davis
Dale Mulfinger
In 'The Cabin: Inspiration for the Classic American Getaway', Dale Mulfinger and Susan Davis present a collection of thirty-seven vacation houses through color photographs and accompanying essays. The book covers a variety of regional styles of architecture, providing historical perspective on each building's design and construction. It emphasizes the beauty of cabins as small, romantic homes in scenic places, encouraging residents to engage with the outdoors. The authors make a compelling case for the emotional and practical appeal of these classic American getaways.
The time is right to revisit cabins: Log cabins, woodsy getaways, A-frame cuties, cottages, tiny homes, lake houses. WE GET INTO IT, including 2024 updates. World famous Minnesota architect, author, professional cabinologist and human delight Dale Mulfinger sits down to discuss everything from what makes a cabin a cabin, to why we bond better surrounded by wood, Scandinavian hygge-ness, where to situate windows, cabin history, horror flicks and vacation activities. Alie sits there starry-eyed and stammers a bunch because she's so excited.
Ologies with Alie Ward 
