Earlier this month, we shared a roundup of cabin chic homes from around the web. I have to admit, this decor approach initially had me scratching my head … what sets cabin chic apart from similar looks like shabby chic or modern rustic? A peek into our very own House Tour archives revealed some inspiring homes with owners who live everyday like it’s a weekend escape and gave me a closer look at some details that put this style into a category of its own.

So what the heck exactly is cabin chic anyway? Requiring a little more attention to detail than just throwing some antlers on the wall, I would say cabin chic is defined by the juxtaposition of vintage or modern pieces with natural elements in a way that tells a story of escape. Pops of accent colors and bold textiles amidst rustic structural elements like wooden floors and walls help steer this look away from kitschy-cabin and give it a contemporary feel. Collections are also key. Vignettes like flea market treasures, small stones or shells in the window sills can assist in creating a dialogue about adventures had while fleeing the hectic, day-to-day life. Oh, and a cast iron stove in the corner couldn’t hurt either.

Top Row:
1. Tereasa's Modest Cottage
2. Helen & Frazer's Solar Powered Beach Shack
3. Stephen & Todd's Fantastic Mr. Farmhouse
4. Becke & Lee's Vintage Cabin
5. Amanda & Derrick's Loft (& Ada's Cabin!)

Bottom Row:
6. Henrick's Black & White Swedish Cottage
7. Cate's California Cottage
8. The Browns' Cottage Novella
9. Four People (and a Dog) Living in 180 Square Feet
10. Jon & Tyke's Modern Cabin

Images: As linked above.