Clevers Camp Camper

By Camper Calvin 　http://www.cleverscampcamp.com/cabin-camping-floor-plans/

Where can I find good plans to build a small cabin in the woods?

I have some land in the woods and like to go camping, however, for those one or two nighters it just seems silly to pack up all the camping gear and head out. So, I would like to build a 10 x 10 building that I can put a bed/sleeping area in and keep some gear in it for future trips.

I have 2 suggestions which may be of use:-

1. Approach a supplier of kit-set homes and look at the plans they offer. They will not give them away for nothing, but will have a complete set for viewing. Sometimes they may even have a sample one built on site. If you see one you really like, write down the dimensions, draw a diagram which includes doors and windows. Then approach a draftsman who will draw up proper plans for you.

If you say you want to discuss it with your hubby/bf, they *may* copy a set for you, reduced in size. Just the floor plan. This is enough for a draftsman to work from.

2. Have a look at what other people have built, and if you see something that really appeals, ask the owner if you may take measurements, photos, etc. Be honest – say why you are doing this. Most people would oblige.

In any event, you can change small things around to suit (NOT load bearing walls though).

Now…
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The first suggestion is a tad dishonest as you are planning on doing it but without them doing the work. You could say you are looking at several at several different companies and several different options, and of course, only one company can win your business.

I did once buy a kitset home and a long time before any work was done, and even a contract signed, had a full set of plans. That was simply th way that company worked.

You should also realize there will certainly be by-laws, zoning, and regulations to meet (think of sewage for instance; or how close to a boundary you can build). Do not try evading these as if you do, I have known umpteen instances of people having to demolish some structure because they thought they would get away with it. Examples ranged from a set of steps to a 2 story house.

Another thing, the draftsman is like an architect, without the full set of qualifications. However, I have twice used them to draw plans, and they did, without any changes requested by the council. These guys (and women) do this for a living and can do simple stuff easily and well – and you save architect fees.

You might also contact your Council first, tell them what you want to do, have the full details of where the lot is, and see what over-riding rules there are. Perhaps you might be restricted to a maximum floor area? Maybe they demand a certain garden type (my last house insisted on this as part of the permit). They will probably have rules on minimum water-tank size, coloring (deep green would be OK, fluorescent yellow won’t be), type of roof, etc. Know these in advance so you do not waste time and money fixing something done wrongly. My experience is that building inspectors (a) think they are God; and (b) only too happy to answer questions about what may and may not be done. Their advice is free and constructive. It is real-world info and applies to your area. You cannot loose by seeing one.

And Finally
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I bought a book called “Building Your Own House”. Soft cover, about an inch thick, with squillions of photos and diagrams. I do not know how much you want to do yourself, but a book like this pays for itself times over. I guess I got 20 or so ideas that saved me money – probably $10k in all; just from reading it and questioning the draftsman, and later on, the builder and other trade people. You cannot lose.

If you are seriously ready to do this and want help or more ideas, email me. We may be in different countries, but stuff like this has a lot in common, whatever country you are in (1st world, not 3rd world).

EDIT: And, BTW, just winging it will cause you so much grief, you will want to jump off a bridge some days. Other than being useless (there are standard sizes for things for instance), you will end up with a nightmare. Hell, I even draw up (I use the term ‘draw’ loosely), a diagram for building a lean-to. Maybe overkill, but I know when it is finished it will look right, and I do not under- or over-order materials. BAD idea.

AND, if you are planning to avoid the whole rigmarole of getting permits and inspections, be prepared to loose the lot. If you do not demolish it when told, they will do it for you, and bill you including labour, truck and bull-dozer time, and tip fees.

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