Why is my cabin so dark inside and why do I burn the ceiling boards?

[@SlartiMarvinbartfast]

I prefer the cabin's level of lighting rather than the approach of so many properties where everything is so stark white and bright inside. The cabin with some warm glowing lighting looks fantastic.

[@kaboom-zf2bl]

a good contrast ... Emily's Cabin compared to Shawn's ... yes she has a lot of white ... and she is working on covering it up enough to make it more cozy for her ... Shawn on the other hand is working on creating a relaxing restful space ... sure BOTH places will be relaxing ... BUT one will be bright always ... and the other will be warmer softer tones of light ... . Emily it seems has figured out that all white walls is like living in a cloud ... and quite disorientating ... she is now working on balancing it out with darker furnishings and more directional lighting or localized lights ... . seeing how Father and Daughter approach the same concerns and how they solve them for their wants and desires is truly amazing ... both places are cozy ... both places have their charms and detriments ... but I wold live in either place happily ... mind you Shawn's cabin is more to my tastes ... more rustic more earthy more like being outdoors while inside

[@madamecampsalot6384]

Love the light fixture!

[@damogranheart5521]

I was raised in a home that had knotty pine boards in the living/dining room. It was warm and glowing. The only lights were the one over the oak table, the lamp on the desk, the floor lamp behind my grandfather's Morris chair, and the fireplace. Perfect. The windows faced south with a view across the lake. Again. Perfect. My idea of Heaven.

[@kaboom-zf2bl]

@@damogranheart5521 yeah ... it is a sight one must experience to truly understand

[@whisper8742]

Nothing says "cheap and disposable" like generic white paint.

[@WhisperingPinesHomestead]

I personally also LOVE the dark, cozy, warm aspect and think it’s fabulous. How awesome that will be in the summer especially☺️

[@TinyGalore]

Totally agree - so cozy :)

[@kaboom-zf2bl]

it is amazing ow many people want bright looking spaces ... when the cozy natural looks is so much better for relaxation ... heck who needs a spotlight on the dinning table to eat ... or a floodlight lamp type to fill the place with bright light ... fewer lights less power needed ... lower power costs ... works great for both off grid and on grid living ... use less pay less ...

[@judyschepp8748]

@Foxmulder 😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣😍💖

[@junebixby7041]

That first shot of the cabin is spectacular! You built a beautiful home.

[@S3thousand]

I love the full shots of the cabin. the windows glowing at Twilight the other day, and the snowfall today. They're beautiful

[@samisamsamisam]

I learn from you more than I learn from my 70 years 🙏👍 God bless you.

[@lr6844]

Love the chandelier ! It fits your cabin just perfectly ! What a wonderful home you have created for your family for many years to come!

[@DeerheartStudioArts]

luv that chandelier! sit really suite the space. Hat a great find!🦌💌❤️🪜

[@SoloClone]

Home, thats the retreat when America falls later this year. Hes right on schedule

[@kayduhaime8390]

How do you figure that cabin will accommodate his family? They have two grown children, who, like most kids go on to have families of their own. Well I guess it will be ok as long as no one stays overnight, other wise bring a tent I guess. Love his work though.

[@SoloClone]

@Kay Duhaime because in an event if an emergency, real families have a fall back plan. I have 3 kids, and I have the same sized cabin, but the math is a bit over sized for just a single couple...hes planning for the collapse and so you should be too

[@angelitaabrematea3013]

A perfect cabin i would say, really you are a structural, safety engineer, architect, interior exterior designer all at the same time. The wall looks good, a cozy place to rest. Thank you for sharing, stay safe and be healthy always, God bless🙏

[@Grizzlife]

The light is nice. Really gives the cabin that hunting lodge type feel.

[@kentzastrow3824]

Dick Proeneke would have been proud and happy with the thoughtful and utilitarian approach with each step of your build. Thank you Shawn for sharing this journey of the creative spirit that you are reflecting upon those with eyes to see. Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄

[@arthenry498]

EXACTLY!! Those with eyes to see!! It is lost on the mentally blind. It irks me that so many "all knowing" know just what someone ELSE should do!! NOT!!

[@chrismullin8304]

He has built things for others to use and enjoy, many,many, years after he is dead. That is Good.

[@karencarpenter7894]

Merry Christmas to you and your family

[@davidcopperfield-notthemag397]

I think the burnt boards look prettier than plain and match with the logs better. I love it!

[@haywoodjablome6645]

I like the darkness in the new cabin.

[@kilroygirl7347]

The chandelier is perfect for the cabin. Just beautiful.

[@mikegto65]

Cabin is absolutely beautiful

[@WadeFrick]

Hi Shawn, I've been watching your channel for around 4 yrs now. I suffer from PTSD and your videos help me to relax. Also I dream of living off grid in a cabin and off the land, since that isn't feasible to me I live that dream through watching your channel. I've learned quite a bit watching you build those cabins. You're living the dream of quite a few people. Best of luck to you in 2023 and I look forward to the new videos.👍

[@dennisbeaver5958]

That chandelier was a great find! And the slight burn on the planks adds a comfortable rustic ambiance to the cabin. Looks great….now get to work on that long “to do” list!

[@bobobrien8968]

Excitement is building to see the live-in stage. We can’t say the final stage because, of course, it’s never finished. I think that’s the fun part. There’s always going to be tweaks and improvements to do. And your followers will be here every step of the journey.

[@judyschepp8748]

You got that right!!!!👍👍🤗🤗🤗

[@benjukes1988]

Look forward to these videos every day. Please keep the daily uploads on this channel if possible, just to hear how its going.

[@ps2v831]

Now that is what I call a touch of class, added to the mix of things. Elegance personified. What a lamp shade. Your thrifting skills are so On Point. Love it❤

[@donnabaardsen5372]

What an amazing accomplishment! Seriously, Shawn thinks of everything, nothing left to chance. A beautiful, cozy home. It's astounding to me how so much know-how, talent and creativity exists in this man. Very well done 👍 Happy holidays to one and all 😊💗

[@damogranheart5521]

Happy Holidays, and may the New Year bring you blessings!

[@karencarpenter7894]

Happy Holidays to you and your family Two.

[@santiagobenites]

Now THAT is a beautiful chandelier, and perfect for your cabin! The fun is in discovering great stuff like that.

[@dorothyallen3614]

I think the wood treatment is really cool and compliments the beautiful logs. The chandelier is very unique.

[@jonrd463]

I love the aesthetic of the "toasted" ceiling planks. I'm like you, I like a dim cozy fire-lit atmosphere. Warm lights, dark woods, and a good book. Your cabin is like a rustic version of an English study I've always dreamed about having in my home.

[@lewlewis8970]

For the record, I like the flamed wood interior also. When I lived in my cabin in Franconia Notch NH, I needed to preserve the old ceiling planks with boiled linseed oil. That also helped with the overall warmth within during the very cold winter months which could easily hit -30C and would average -20C. I could maintain 50 degrees delta between inside and outside temperatures and couldn't mop the floor.

[@FightKnight]

Love the darker look. I’ve never understood why so many, even within a so called cabin do white walls….no imagination….sterile,cold. This is so cozy…perfect.

[@MrBuckaroo2014]

Excellent job, Shawn!

[@georgebliss5134]

The cabin is looking great, and I like the dark look of the boards. I'm looking forward to the outdoor kitchen project. Stay safe, be well, and keep up the great work, and thank you.

[@kaboom-zf2bl]

me too ... I am hoping he makes his own clay tiles for the breezeway ... and outdoor kitchen ... so he can soak them with water in summer and let the breeze cool the places some... just like they did in the medieval times for the dairy maids to make butter and cheese etc ... . I can see how I would do it ... and from all shawn has said about them .. his plan is similar .. and I am looking forward to see how his vision will mesh with the rest ...

[@cynthialowe]

You have a fantastic and beautiful home. I love your furniture, lamps and details you have added to this house. Bathroom inside the house is super. I hope your kitchen will be also next to the house. Congratulations

[@larrylegg8245]

I don't think it's too dark either Shawn. It looks great and is easy on the eyes.

[@thomasnelson2463]

I'm a crane operator, and I've set a few log homes that were scribed in B.C. of Red cedar. They are all fabulously beautiful, but I like your rustic cabin better! I gave you a thumbs up, even though Cali wasn't in the video!

[@jeanettec6212]

I never question ehy you do things the way you do. I have watched you enough years to know your style and reasons. The lighting is perfect for a cabin. The light fixture is perfect. Just like I knew it would be.

[@sherryfillmore9572]

Excellent light fixture for the cabin, it looks great!! 👌

[@damogranheart5521]

That chandelier made me gasp with astonishment and delight! Perfect for over the table! Your home is warm and welcoming, and that's the highest compliment that I can give it! How wonderful! I'd like to wish you, Cali, your family, and all your viewers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year !

[@almathees3839]

Thank you for walking us city dwellers your vision of ur cabin!!! The charring of the natural wood for protection & preserving the wood is brilliant! Looks great! The chandelier is perfect for the dining area! Love ur vision for the cabin!!❤️

[@JimmyDCarter]

The Chandelier is beautiful. It's a perfect fit for your cabin. I love it.

[@CS5663-z5q]

Thank you Shaun , oh how I wish I could live off grid off the beaten track , but in the uk the planning departments / council don’t allow 😢.

[@lonnacere3844]

Lived 11 years in North Ontario in a log house that was built in 1927, best way to live!

[@threewillowsfarm7779]

I love the rustic north woods feel of this home. The wood is perfection. Wouldnt change a thing.

[@elsaduplessis3185]

Today's vlog is much lighter and clear, I love the warm atmosphere.

[@chrisr.3147]

You should think about putting your coat hooks over the stairway, instead of the walkway, which is somewhat narrow. Maybe add shelving over the stairs as well for boots and shoes. Don't worry about the dark logs, your wife will come in and whitewash if she needs it lighter. Good work Shawn. Your determination to complete it is enviable.

[@TaigaTurf]

The cabin has the rustic look without trying too hard like so many do. Hate shiny bright wood cabins. This looks amazing.

[@DR-sh7sm]

I knew that you would make a better cabin than you had before but I know that you are still going to have your kitchen outside and I can just imagine what you have in mind for that you have a wonderful place and you look so much more happy and healthy than before and that you work hard for that you are a wonderful person that I’m sure inspired people to go and see what nature is relaxing and peaceful take care and enjoy your life in your beautiful cabin you should be proud of your work

[@sshaw4429]

It’s a Japanese technique Shou Sugi Ban. Originating in 18th century Japan, shou sugi ban is a particularly striking method of preserving wood by charring it with fire. Traditionally, this practice is used with Japanese cedar in order to weatherproof it. The wood is burned until the surface is charred, and then coated with natural oil.

[@olalabamahillbilly9677]

Shawn I for one think it looks beautiful, you do great carpenter work! I also like the burnt wood, it really looks amazing!

[@peterharper3861]

The Breezeway/mudroom is really looking great now

[@timkeagy4094]

The burning of the wood is for a reason, but also the way it looks after really makes the cabin look great inside. I’ve always liked the look of burnt, charred wood for projects. My house was built with no ceiling lighting in the early 60’s. I have a big open style single story, and the lighting I put in I had to wire through the attic and down, two of the three lights are ceiling fan lighting, I live in warmer climate, with a dimmer. The dimmer is always on a low dim. We like it that way also.

[@101life9]

Love your new log home (wouldn't called it a cabin but the first one is). It is brighter and more spacious for comfort. And a screened porch and outdoor kitchen...Great job.

[@icarus877]

Interesting update, I did make the comment a while ago was why char or burn the ceiling planking when they would reflect light un charred - your answer gives me the reason - you simply prefer it which is your prerogative. All the best.

[@justhaulincars]

I like that your cabin is dark and cozy.

[@irisviolet4867]

I am happy to see you smile...even if is no natural....I LOVE MISTIQUE and ENIGMATIQUE RUSTIC ambiance(semi dark).The lamp is just gorgeoust...i couldnt hope more cause your soul is a paradise and your taste are same. CALI is the most luky girl in the world

[@carolmathis6084]

Greetings Sir! The opening scene of the cabin in a great snow is spectacular! A chandelier! In a cabin! As an onlooker, I try to keep my 'opinions' to myself, and wait and see, cause I've learned that the results are greater than I've imagined. You have beauty outside and in! Best regards, c

[@jaelee7741]

Well, that’s your decision and great effort. Underground and outside woods are well protected by your treat but inside of cabin’s dark environment is your choice. There are some other you-tubers are finished different way named “The Outsider” and etc. Both are great job done and we really enjoy it!

[@Roheryn100]

The chandelier couldn't be more appropriate ! What an amazing find ! I love it....🥰🥰🥰

[@eliafajardo2541]

I think the cabin is absolutely charming, cozy, rustic and beautiful!!! With proper lighting it will be even nicer to appreciate the wood grain. It is not depressing!!! I love it. It’s perfect just the way it is.

[@bluejeans8001]

The opening shot of the cabin covered in snow was Epic👍

[@PrimitiveBuilder]

I love building and living in the jungle like you, because it is quiet and makes us very happy.

[@maureensmith4451]

The chandelier is perfect. I like low light to at night too. It’s comforting. The place is looking amazing.

[@Martlin]

The chandelier adds so much ambience.

[@pamelafeather6405]

I am so bored by white walls, paneling and deep color tones are such a lovely palette to then "brighten up" with colors that evoke my personal spirit. Glad to see you doing your place the way YOU like it, because truly nothing else matters. Score on the chandelier, I like it, very cabin appropriate indeed.

[@ХадятуллоСаидов-у7о]

James it's very nice to see your creations in the construction of wooden houses I'm probably your only subscriber from sunny Tajikistan good luck to you in life 🇹🇯🇹🇯🇹🇯

[@darlenekozlovskis6907]

It's nice and cozy, Shawn.

[@chrisblack8390]

I like the chandelier. Can't wait to see it lit.

[@dianebackhouse4532]

Omg your work is never ending, and you do your cabin how you see fit, as after all your the ones who will be living in it. I'm sure it will be fantastic what ever you do.

[@movinngroovin2104]

You know how many people build a cabin and work like you did . I was glad to see you put many windows in for natural light cabins do have a dark look about them anyway on the inside. Don't forget your Christmas tree.

[@davidgriego278]

I often wondered why boards would be burned, along with long logs! I like the character it gives the Cabin! Always learning from you! You do a magnificent job!! God Bless!

[@DeerheartStudioArts]

I, too, like the cosy feeling of log homes. I use lamps and task lights judiciously to use electricity efficiently. Your home looks so welcoming. 🦌💌❤️✌️💪👍

[@jesusisking3974]

I've watched many of these types of Wood Cabin building but I have to say...this is the real deal...perfection ! If people complain of how dark it is inside it's only because they are used to unnatural bright indoor lighting. The way you built this structure was incredible...you are a real mountain man who knows his craftmanship is second to none. Well Done...100% satisfaction! 🤗 From Scotland, UK. 🙏🙋‍♀️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@donnavickery9623]

I like the look of the burned wood. Your cabin is beautiful. Don’t worry about what people say. It is your cabin and it should be pleasing to you. Your house should be a reflection of you not someone else.

[@mariansmith7694]

Your home is AMAZING. It's a wilderness palace. So Beautiful!

[@gloriaparton5652]

Love the look of the burnt lumber inside the cabin.

[@georgerogers542]

Looking forward seeing the basement .

[@navajallope4170]

Still viewing you from Pondicherry India and still enthralled by your living excellence and equilibrium. I appreciate it all so very much. All the very best to you in 2023.

[@stevenjames4659]

I’m glad you discussed how dark your cabin is. I was wondering why you didn’t leave the ceiling a natural color to allow a little brightness

[@laruedouglas7972]

I love the look of the cabin with the look of the burnt wood. I love your chandelier 😍.

[@scottjones5455]

Merry Christmas, thanks for taking us out into the wild.

[@YvonneSebastian1980]

Such fabulous work! I like the boards.. the look is perfect rustic.. ( made up design term lol).. have a great day Shawn❤️☮️

[@andrearenee7845]

I think your cabin is awesome. Those who complain don't need to be here. They don't. understand nature or intent. Good stuff.

[@deloreskelley2330]

I think you could also brighten it up if you wanted by using a string of those Christmas lights or I guess people use them now on their patios for parties and just lighting up the area while they sit outside but that would look really nice along the rafters

[@derickmitchell9852]

I prefer to walk in & out of pools of light in our home. I was a construction electrician for most of my working life. We like warm colors. We are about 98% LED in our home. The warm temperature lamps are my favorites. The decorative amber lamps expose the filaments & have a vintage look. Your cabin is perfect. I would not change a thing. The Shawn James channel is my favorite because you explain your intent. Thanks for sharing your project with us.

[@MrPossumeyes]

Thanks, Shawn. Nice light, too.

[@barbsussex3865]

I love the natural look of the interior. It's what a log cabin is all about. Wood!

[@robertsimard735]

Good morning Shawn. Thanks for sharing. Have a great week.

[@jaimhaas5170]

Whatever your reasons are Shawn working with wood is primal and great way to relax.

[@01splitpea]

I feel the same. Dark is beautiful. It's a matter of preference, but cabins of old were dark. Spectacular cabin, Shawn James. Job extremely well done.

[@bluejeans8001]

Beyond the protection from burning the wood I really think it is beautiful in appearance especially on the interior. Creates a warm comfy look. 👍

[@FunfindersX]

That's totally perfect for your home I so enjoy your channel. Merry Christmas to you and your family Cheers

[@annemariewharton2797]

Gorgeous winter setting for the cabin is so enjoyable to see. Inside just as perfect as outside and great to see fittings going in so looking more homely every day. Thank you Shawn and Merry Christmas to you and yours ❤.

[@sherrypaproski9564]

I love the way it looks not to light but not to dark I think it’s perfect colour Shawn

[@johntatum1951]

Still a bit of work to be done on the inside, but I bet it is warmer than the other cabin you left. It seems very cozy, and with all that snow outside that is some could tight building. Hope you and Cali weather the winter well.

[@peterjones4621]

I like the Chandelier, it fits perfectly with the wood work in the cabin, you got a heck of a deal Shawn!

[@lisamartinez6899]

Thank you for answering why you torch the wood . The mud room with the lighter torch is beautiful it’s great that you didn’t stain it !

[@TheKnacklersWorkshop]

Thanks for the update Shawn...

[@husky500cr]

I think your new cabin has perfect lighting inside.

[@junecampbell3358]

Your cabin is so beautiful perfect size and a way to take care of your family hunting ,fishing and growing your own food ! You are self sufficient great work God bless you and your wife and daughters..to build what you have all yourself not many can do..with the support of your loving family always there for you you are one very blessed hubby and dad ..

[@TheJosip1000]

0:01 first shot right there, thing of beauty.

[@athollmcnicoll1028]

Be interesting to see what your wife thinks after the cabin is finished and all the wee jobs done to make it fully habitable for her as well as you and Cali. Cheers Shawn like you I prefer the dark to the light so shade my windows most of the year but then 11 stories up a skyscraper who can see what is going on inside my flat?

[@davidlaue8225]

I absolutely think the interior and exterior of the cabin walls are beautiful, shou sugi ban is an ancient technique of preserving and coloring wood and what you have done is amazing. In my opinion what you are doing is far beyond what Mr. Proenneke accomplished, and your just getting started. I hope someday someone can take all your accomplishments and make a documentary for national television, the world needs to see what you have accomplished.

[@juanitavalenzuela7002]

I agree with you. I never use the glare of the ceiling lights. I have lamps and indirect lighting. Your cabin is rustic and beautiful as is.

[@thesifikite6450]

This is a major accomplishment over your last cabin! God Bless!

[@nancylagoyda5337]

Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

[@robertarivera4487]

I marvel at the craftsmanship of this cabin...you are making a beautiful, strong dwelling 🌲🐾