Why Choose a Scandi Cabin?

Europeans are at the forefront of energy-efficient housing, utilizing wood and other sustainable materials. With energy prices expected to rise significantly over the next 20 years, Scandi Cabins provide stylish, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient solutions designed to stand the test of time. Built with prefabricated mass timber walls and paired with high-performance German double-glazed windows and doors, Scandi Cabins are crafted for both comfort and sustainability.

Scandinavian backyard cabins, also known as log cabins in Australia, are celebrated worldwide for their sustainability and quick installation. These cabins have only recently made their way to Australia, likely due to the continent’s remoteness and economic policies before 1973. However, with the introduction of these cabins comes a mix of products, not all meeting high standards. Below, we outline the key differences that set Scandi Cabins apart from other mass timber cabins available in Australia and New Zealand.

Key factors for comparing mass timber cabins

With numerous factories producing cabins in Europe, Asia, and New Zealand, it can be difficult to spot differences at first glance. While many imported cabins may appear similar, both hidden and visible features can significantly impact the structural integrity, energy efficiency, and longevity of your cabin. Focus on these five key factors when comparing options, and whenever possible, visit a display to inspect the product firsthand.

I recommend comparing the weight of prefab components made in the EU, as this is a clear indicator of quality. A higher weight often means denser timber, thicker and higher walls, and better-quality windows and doors—all of which contribute to a more durable and energy-efficient cabin. – Remi Buika, Co-founder of Scandi Cabins.

1. Built to the highest Standards

Every Scandi Cabin (backyard cabin or granny flat) is made to the highest European standards, engineered to meet AU/NZ requirements, and constructed in accordance with the local Building Code. This ensures a durable, safe structure perfectly suited for your property.

Always check with your builder or supplier to ensure you won’t encounter issues with approval. Verify that the windows have been tested by an accredited NATA laboratory and are rated for energy efficiency, and confirm that the designs are engineered by an Australian or New Zealand engineer for compliance and quality.

2. Premium Nordic Spruce Timber

Scandi Cabins are made from visually graded Nordic spruce, the best softwood available. Spruce is more expensive than pine and is easily recognized by its light color, unlike pine’s orange tone. Grown slowly in Northern Europe’s cold climate, spruce produces fewer, thinner limbs, resulting in stable timber with small knots.

Moisture content is crucial. Cheaper cabins often use pine with higher moisture content, leading to excessive shrinkage and cracks in the structure. Our spruce timber is carefully dried to minimize shrinkage and ensure long-lasting stability.

3. Advanced Structural Engineering

Scandi Cabins are engineered with a steel rod tie-down system that runs through the walls, connecting the structure to the foundation while allowing natural timber movement. This is the only proven engineering method that ensures structural integrity and compliance.

Other suppliers may omit tie-down rods or screw wall boards together, restricting natural timber settlement and causing issues over time. Without proper tie-down rods, the timber cannot expand and contract as needed, risking structural instability, water penetration, and durability problems.

4. High-Quality Doors and Windows

Scandi Cabins vs competitors windows and doors

Our cabins feature German-engineered double or triple-glazed windows and doors, equipped with multi-point locking systems and weatherstripping to enhance energy efficiency and comfort. All glass is tempered and meets AU/NZ standards, providing superior insulation and safety.

Double-glazing: 4mm glass – 16mm gap – 4mm glass (4/16/4mm)
Triple-glazing: 4/16/4/16/4mm

Be sure to ask your supplier for a Windows Compliance Certificate, confirming the windows meet required quality standards. Also, verify door compliance: doors should have a low or no threshold, a minimum height of 2040mm, and a clear opening of at least 820mm.

5. Thick Timber Walls and High Ceilings

With external walls up to 240mm thick and solid mass timber for all internal walls, Scandi Cabins offer excellent insulation and soundproofing. We also design our cabins with higher ceilings, creating a spacious, airy feel that meets Australian habitable room standards.

Always compare these features when choosing a cabin supplier to ensure compliance, good value, and lasting comfort.

In choosing a Scandi Cabin, you’re investing in a backyard room that blends style, functionality, and long-term quality. Our cabins are ideal for home offices, studios, guest rooms, and more, offering exceptional comfort and a smart investment for your property.

For more details or to see a display, find your nearest Scandi Cabins builder here.