Hi Amy,
Sounds heavenly cant wait to see the show in August to see the outcome of this awesome cabin home . Whoever wins this home will have a great opportunity to create wonderful family vacations and memories.Good luck to everyone.

Amy;
This is an exciting opportunity for my family and i. We usally try to spend a couple of weeks a year in the mountains. It's a great getaway,even to the point as we have discussed trying to purchasing a cabin there. however the cost is somewhat out of a reasonable range for us at this time. so a chance to blog and perhaps win this would be a dream come true.
Just a thought on some of the flooring the greatroom or setting area would look really neat with the synthentic stone tile, to compliment with the fireplace. The entry and porch would also maintain the mountainous appeal with a flagstone overlayment. Just thinking outloud i suppose but it's great to be able to express my veiws with someone like you. thanks Steve Highbaugh, Bonnieville, Ky

Kinzel Springs sounds calming and peaceful. As this contest began I was intrigued at the surroundings of Kinzel Springs. Offering a breathtaking view, magnificent streams, quaint picnic areas, a catch & release fishing stream & hiking trails. It all sounds very exciting and impressive!

Your depiction was dream like............

Wow Amy, you really know how to paint a picture with words. Let's all move there right now! This is really exciting regardless of who ends up with this "dream" cabin we all get to participate. And so, I must comment on the round stair rail choice that is voted on the most. As a woodworker I appreciate a good Join and the traditional looks to be the most reliable. The round leaves rough end grain exposed and is more difficult to dust and maintain. And although the third choice is a lovely work of art I wonder if there might be issues with children and safety?

What do you'all think?

Joy

Hi, Amy I am a local contractor in north GA and have a very lot of ideas for for custom log homes. I/we my crew have done many custom improvements to up scalled log homes. I would love to be a part of this and or help any way i/ or we can .
Thanxs Tommmy
P.S If needed I have many digital pictures That can be sent

Amy, I do love the sounds of rain on a metal roof but resisting wind and the ability of metal to stand the test of time are excellant. I have only seen metal roofs pose a problem in extreme high winds with wind driven rain getting into the home around the ridge. As a storm adjuster, I have seen it survive high wind.
Once upon a time, I was a firefighter and all I can say on metal and fire is that it would require cutting though for venting in a major fire. Of course, any roof must be vented in the same circumstance. I can not imagine metal being any more difficult to cut with a k-12 saw than any other roof.(metal was not really available in my fire fighting days)
In any case, I love the way the cabin is coming together. I imagine on your trip to the site it was very exciting, picturing the cabin in such a beautiful place. A place one can forget time and pressure of the regular world. Keep up the great work!

Amy,

Have y'all considered any solar or geothermal heating for the home? Not only would it be great for the house (and the environment) but it would make for some great TV stuff. Solar might not be appropriate depending on how you sit in the clouds, and geothermal can be tough if drilling is a problem, but they should at least be considered.

What can I say my granddaughter will love the coffee shop what 17 year old would not love the tree and mountain and going for long walk with her grandmother it is a dream we mite let her mother come along.Bennett

Thanks Amy!~ Now I am even more turned on toward the idea of the cabin in Tennesse!!! I will enjoy participating in the ideas for the cabin and watching the progress. But I have to admit now I will be saddened if I don't win. I just had surgery today and I still am on here voting and responding to blogs! When HGTV had their house last year I tried so hard with daily postcards and daily email entries that I was very let down not to win it. Albeit happy for the other "guy". My son is always cryin' lately as we haven't gone on vac. in two yrs. We live in MI and enjoy driving to our destination- south. We all love stopping at hotels even.. wowwwww can't imagine "stopping" at a beautiful cabin and mountain area. I am part Indian and I would be visiting the Mountains to check out all the Indian history and shops. OOhhh maybe you could do some decorating with Indian artifacts... how down to earth natural is THAT! Ok, so I hate when people plead their cases and talk about themselves... so I better get some rest and "dream on" now.

Amy,

I'm glad you said "appears to be idyllic"... A bit of history searching would reveal that typical life in the mountains was anything but... It was not easy to carve a living out of that environment.
That said, I sure hope you will be taking advantage of local craftsmen to do most of the work. I'm sure they will appreciate the boost to their economy.
Another significant point that occured as I was blog browsing.... The cabin must (not should, but MUST) fit in with other architecture of the area.... and I hope that will contribute more weight than the votes of dreamy housebounds who never ventured into the Great Smokies before... OK, I've probably said enough.

amy,

it is very therapeutic being in the mountains.it not only is a great place to build this dream cabin but also a place to unwind and enjoy the real palette of life.

the choices picked so far are great. i am a fan of radiant floor heat. i have not heard of this being mentioned.toasty feet :)

would the fireplace have real stone or cultured stone? a gas log fireplace would not have to have so much support. so cultured stone could be used.there seems to be a lot of choices as to the color and shape of the cultured stone.

if there were support beams or columns that could incorporate natural bark peeled logs.. this would look great inside the cabin. there are chainsaw artists thoughout the country that could carve the bears, owls, deer into the columns.something to think about.

i ams sure that you and your crew are excited. and i am glad that you found a place for a good cup of coffee to unwind. my husband and i are looking forward to your postings as to how the cabin will be emerging.

take care,
jm

Amy-
This cabin is going to be a trendsetting beauty. I'd love to be able to live in it year-round and use the upstairs rooms for my parents, 6 siblings-4 sibling spouses, 10 neices and nephews, and my handsome sailor son and his friends for beautiful guest quarters when they visit. My son, who is now 25, loves the water and the mountains. Espeacially after his missiion in Iraq and his VBSS operatios searching for Taliban off the coast of Africa, he's ready for an adrenaline let down. We all love playing cards, dominos, RISK, puzzles, sipping drinks while watching the sunset and mountains, and just being silly with each other. I feel this amazing cabin will be the cause of many long-lasting, loving memories, including drinking Debby Specials - (orange juice, Sprite/Ginger Ale/Fruit Punch, Grenadine, slices of fruit) - which were designed for our family sspecial occasions where everyone could take part. Enjoying the views and toasting our blessings has been so fun in the past. Comraderie, fun, peaceful rest, inspiration, and bliss will all prevail in such a terrific setting. Some of the kiddies toasts have been so comical!

any alternative energy sources and green measures would be great.
my thought is that you keep the bath on the main floor accessable to sr.s with limited mobility and maybe even a roll in shower. older knees get very sore when hiking and can't always step over the tub edge. that also helps bring along family and friends who may not otherwise get to come along.

Hi Amy,

You say you saw some Wild Turkey but did you see any white lightning, LOL, just kidding. I remember some years back visiting a friend that lived right near the NC/TN boarder in Butler, TN. Having spent most of my life in and around Chicago I know what you mean about soaking in so much natural beauty on such a grand scale for the first for the first time. It is just mind blowing to think of the folks who lived in the original log homes with no modern luxuries or paved roads leading to the front door. If nothing else I am going to have a lot of nice day dream during this process, lol.

Dear Amy,
The mountains must have been God's idea of HEAVEN ON EARTH. I can't think of a more beautiful place in the world. Just the serenity of the great outdoors and the fresh air and being able to view the wonders of nature year round sounds so wonderful.

You are right, life in the mountains is like living in another world, it is so peaceful and slow paced. I wish that every person who has entered this contest could win. I just hope that someone who can live there full time or at least can spend a lot of time there wins it. That would truly be a blessing.

You guys are wonderful. You are so generous for building a cabin to give away to make some lucky person's dream come true. This must be very rewarding to you as well.

Thank You,
Mary from South Carolina

Country Roads...Take Me Home...To The Place...I Belong!!!
I'm ready Amy! I've had life in the burbs, life in the big city (New York City), back to the burbs, now it's time to retire like my parents did, to life in the mountains! Slow down and take it all in. Life goes by to fast the older you get. We should do whatever we can do to slow it down and make every moment special.

Hi Amy, It's nice to know that Kinzel Springs appeals so much to the city girl you describe yourself as being. I'm also a city girl but my heart has always been in the mountains. I guess I've always longed for the serenity that such settings provide. God certainly has given us a beautiful earth but the most important thing for us all to remember is that peace and serenity first begins within ourselves. Good luch with the cabin progress and here's hoping that you won't be bogged down with project management surprises. I am eager to follow the blog cabin progress.

Hi Amy I have been involved on the log cabin since it came on. So far I am with everythig that leads except the tin roof.I can not imagine any one that could stand rain hitting that kind of roof it would drive me crazy. Right now the snow is melting off my roof and hitting a carbage can,I had to go out and move the can it drove me to distraction. But the area is really beautiful and I would love to visit the place on vacation one day. At any rate keep up the good work

I wonder if it would be possible in one of these contests to have the cabin built on the winner's site. I know that area of the country is beautiful, but if anyone from the western side of the US wins, they wouldn't be able to go there very often, and would most likely have to sell it.

I really can't imagine the joy of the winner!I hope they enjoy it and take care of the land as temporary owners that we are in planet earth, oh,gosh,I know I would!

I lived 31 years without ever seeing snow and the first time it snowed here my husband had to drag me back into the house. Raised in a city, moved to farming country and now back in the city again and I long for the comfort of the mountains. What is it about the absolute quiet that makes you want to shout out loud?! Do you remember the first time you heard your voice echo back to you? Truly magic, don't you think?

Hi Amy,

I think that Lynn had a great idea about making the house environmentally friendly and this area should be explored as much as fesible. Also, keeping that in mind, I think it would be a good idea to do some things in and around the grounds for the local wildlife so whoever lives in the home will have maybe a mini-conservation area to enjoy and providing a positive impact for the environment(wildlife).
Sam

Hi Amy, I have loved the mountains all my life, I love camping, roughing it, but I've also stayed at a cabin one time when my friends and I stayed 4 nights in Yosemite Park. I lived in Anchorage, Alaska 4 yrs and I loved it there. The thought of having your own cabin is extremely exciting, the sound of birds, the sound of water as well as the smell of fresh air is the best prescription anything and all ailment that exists. I just want to make a suggestion, if I could, it would be nice to have a covered parking of some sort, something with a tin roof for whoever is going to win and live there. Whoever wins the cabin would be the luckiest person, and I hope they take care of it, this way it'll last for yrs to come. If I get the chance to live in a cabin like that, I could honestly say that I've lived my life to the fullest. Take care, Joie G.

I have not seen any comments on the bathroom.... why are the choices either tub or shower, but not both? I like showers when I just want to get cleaned up, but I love soaking in the tub sometimes too. I initially chose the clawfoot tub, because I figured a shower fixture and curtain could always be added. But I suppose I could have the big fancy shower and do without the bathtub if there was a hot tub ;)

Hi everybody!

Like many of you, I have always dreamed of living in a cabin.

If this were MY cabin I would only use solid floors with radiant heat. Carpet would be out of the question because of my four wonderful "fur kids," two Labs, one German shorthair pointer, and a Maine coon mix cat. I'll bet many of you outdoor lovers also have animal family members.

I would hate to close in that front porch, but a back screened in sleeping porch would be a GREAT addition.

How big is the lot? I would need at least a half acre to fence in for my GSP, who runs most of the day. When my adorable grandson visits, he also needs a great open place to run and play.

If I don't win, at least I will have learned more about what I should and shouldn't do when I actually have my dream cabin built. So far, your project is great. Thanks for doing this!

hi amy, i know what you mean...when i first moved up here to oregon after living in southern california all my life, i thought i was in heaven! completely in awe of the water falls and rivers, the turkeys crossing the road and canadian geese flying in the fall! i love all of it and it still amazes me that there are parts of this world where Gods creation can still be experienced!
my son and i have been voting and blogging, talking about the pros and cons, looking up ideas for the kitchen etc... we can't wait and whoever is the chosen to win this home they will be blessed!

Amy,
I have to agree with you the mountains are simply breathtaking, I have been a devoted visitor to the Great Smokies since I was only 6 years old and I never get tired of going, now that I am a mother of 3 I try to instill my love of the area in my children and teach them there is always something new everytime you look even if you've been there a thousand times before, I want to thank you and DIY for this great oppertunity to enclude we the viewers in the building and enjoyment of this home.

Hi all, I've been to the Tennessee mountains to vacation a couple of times and I can't attest to its beauty. As a family, we have enjoyed relaxing in its majesty after a fun day of stream fishing and hiking-a dream life. My dream life at any rate. Thanks for the local info. Sounds great.

The setting sounds lovely. Will the house sit overlooking a mountain view or sit low in a valley? Is the area secluded, or among an area that groups log homes together?

Having been to the Smokeys on our honeymoon and subsequently on a trip with our children. I do recall seeing black bears, deer, even a timber rattler. I think it is amazing you had the opportunity to see a turkey in the wild.

What you said Amy is true, I can remember going to the mountains when I was a kid.If your a nature lover than this is the right place for you.I love going to the mountains in the fall. There is so much beauty, nature and peacefulness.I have two younger kids and I can't wait to take them up there hopefully this fall.

While I'm sure I'll never win, what about the local area for schools and business? I have small children (late in life) and would consider slowing down and relocating year round.

Water features are nice, but without the outside room to enjoy it from, sounds like half an answer. I voted for the outdoor fireplace for general living and entertaining value.

I voted for the tin for looks and fire safety. I prefer the cedar, but the mountains can be fire-prone.

What about exterior finish? Let it run natural or will it be stained? In either case, sealing is a must.

Love your show(s). I don't have the tools to make the metal furniture, but the rest always gives me ideas. Which leads to the last question...Any woodshop in the log cabin or outbuildings? Can't be a DIY story without one!

Carl (not your on-air partner!)

Great Idea only it would be so much better if you offer to build in one's own state.I would like a friend of mine to win something like this for his 37 year project he has been building. What kind of project, you might ask, could last 37 years? Well James Bishop has been sculpting a Castle, yeah that's what I said." A Castle"!!There are many references on the internet so I won't bore you with the details.
What I would like to see is someone help this man and provide him with a first rate cabin that he could use inside the walls of the Castle as a visitor center and cafe. This is a poor man project not even having the monies to properly promote the project even though it has a 501(C)3 tax non-profit status and to date stands at 9000ft sealevel and is 16 stories high. Surely something of this caliber should warrent at least alittle attention by DIY Thank you for letting me rant. Keven G. CruCabur

Hi Amy,
I just have to check in almost daily to read all the bloggers who are daydreaming about actually winning this contest. I love most all of the comments and find so many who would truly appreciate the home you will be building. I am truly blessed to have my home. In a former blog to you I mentioned that my OLD bungalow is in great need of a major rehaul... just thought I'd be funny and mention to you again that I possess one of the greatest challenges you might want to consider if you're ever in need of something to do! Again, good luck with the cabin. I really hope someone who really needs it will win.

Hi Amy~
I am so anxious to see pictures. Will they be coming soon? We were visiting my aunt and uncle and when we went to go out the front door there was a huge buck just standing there staring back at us. He was so close and it would have made a beautiful picture (if I only had a camera in my hand, plus I was so awestruck at the amazing sight!)

Hi Amy My husband watches DIY network all the time he said it good to know the project he is doing is the correct way.We went to the smokies when our kids were young it sound even better know . Are you going to help pick out thing for the cabin hope so I like your style.Bennett

I live in a log cabin in North Pole, Alaska. My husband and I moved back up here after he retired from the military. I love it up here and I sure love my cabin. But pretty soon we have to think about moving closer to the family in Tennesee and Texas.
The cabin you are building shapes up to be very nice looking. I hope you include radiant floors. They are hot up here in Alaska. A toyo or monitor stove works pretty well too and does not use alot of fuel. I think you should keep the metal roof, it is the best in the winter for the snow slides off alot easier. I would have one of the bathrooms with a tub and one with the walk-in shower. The Smokey Mountains are very beautiful during all seasons, especially in winter. I hope the person that is lucky to win this log cabin enjoys it all year round.

Hi Amy, All I have to add is that Tommy is so right. Tin roofing is a wonderful idea. When if ever a forest fire is on a tin roof is a whole lots better to protect than any other roofing. You can keep it cool and it is not so likely to catch on fire. Great going Tommy, I agree with you all the way. Thanks

Hi Amy & All,

Upon further reflection I think there are a lot of design considerations that could use some input or at least indication that they are being considered. I have a personal list of at least five different subjects, each of which have multiple aspects to consider. They are:
Utilities, Security, Plot aspects, Public services, and local business infrastructure, including distances. That's too many to cover in one sitting, and in fact Utilities probably needs to be broken down more since it involves so many possible tradeoffs. So, how about starting with Electricity under the utilities section?
1. Distance to connection - it it "at the street" or must a long line be run?
2. If not "at the street", what are implications for long term maintenance? Who will own the line and have to maintain it?
3. Due to unreliable availability of power (ice storm, for example), what backup alternatives are possible, such as solar augmentation, and aux. generator?
4. What about distribution inside & outside the cabin without (or minimally) affecting the style of the walls?

I have lots more, but I think that's enough for now.
Thoughts???
Bill

Kinzel Springs looks beautiful and peaceful but lot prices that start at $93000 and go up from there! Ouch. I shudder to think what the yearly homeowner dues must be. With lot prices like that is this "cabin" going to fit in with the neighborhood?

Bill you are right I never thought of those things .Also what about the septic system. I just had to put in anew one and boy were there a lot of stones,rocks to remove,Good for drainage but in the mountains it has to be worse

Yes I will agree the cabin has to be built on a mountain so you can sat on the porch and have a view with every seasons that pass you would just about have to retire cause you would never get up and leave for work on time but there is all ways work from home would you really want to do it.You can almost image see the snow falling down the mountains and having a large cup coffee to worm you up that would be nice. Bennett

Hi Amy,
I love the cabin and the designs offered but even more my dream house would be right where you are building this one
nothing is more peaceful than a mountain view and the call of the birds being avid birders I would want to make sure all my feeders were out inthe trees waiting for dinner,, Your description is exactly where a cabin should be erected

This is a beautiful layout, I am wondering about the amenities like the Washer/Dryer. Its location should be near the master bedroom. I would love to see a Bidet and a spa tub in the bath. The luxurious options in a bath are a must. Our family has a hand built cabin in Vermont and the tin roof is an absolute must have with snow loads. The outdoor fireplace patio is another must have, I would also include a Hot tub or Sauna, a cold weather warm up in winter. The most beautiful part of a log home is the wide open airy feeling. And as a footnote, I read that the oldest log hme in the US is in St Augustine Florida, DIY can you pass that information to the souther end of the US. Katrina left a log home standing in a neighborhood where all else was destroyed...Cypress is the log of choice..naturally bug resistant. A southern Log home is a no brainer..although they all feel block is the way to go in Florida..PLEASE MAKE THE FLORIDIANS UNDERSTAND THAT WOOD IS GOOD...

Amy,
I really do love the floor plan choice and especially the location. I've visited that part of Tennessee several times and am truely taken by everything that area has to offer. I really do love all the trees. You see, I was raised and still reside in West Texas where our trees are like shrubs compared to the Great Smokey Mountains. I would welcome an opportunity to live there in an area rich in beauty and history. I also know that my wife would as well since she comes from that area.
I do have a question. Would it be possible for horses to be kept there as we now own six?
I can't wait to see the finished peoject.
Thanks,
Carl

Have you already figured out how the cabin is going to sit on the lot? If it faces south then you will be able to use the front porch first thing in the morning thru midafternoon and the backporch (I know you're going to add one of those it is a mountain cabin after all) the rest of the day or vice versa to get some sun or beat the heat.

We recently sold our home and moved to Tennessee and absolutely love it! The beauty AND the people. I 've just heard about your cabin and have missed the voting,etc. Has the wood choice been made? Also, some are talking about radiant flooring but you would still want a forced air system because of the humidity in the summer and to properly exchange the air, it seems. Wouldn't it be a big expense to have both? Will the interior and kitchen have round logs? The fireplace should be a big focal point (think Cracker Barrell!) And lots of light since cabins can be quite dark. I look forward to following the project.
Thanks,
Sharon

Kinzel Springs in Townsend, TN - "the quiet side of the Smokies." What an absolute homerun DIY hit with this location - just minutes away from the Great Smokey Mtns Natl Park and within 30 min - 1 hour of Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg (depending on the route).

We have often camped in Cades Cove (about 15 min from Kinzel Springs) and seen deer, turkey, coyote, and even the ever popular black bear! Townsend is exactly the right size community for a get-away cabin. It has a grocery store, gas stations, numerous eateries, & rental places for water toys (if you can endure the cold water). My favorite shopping place is The Apple Barn with something for everyone, local crafts and souveniers aplenty!

Fabulous location!

You guys should all go to the Kinsel Springs web page. It shows you that this is a nice planned development and is gated. Certainly, there will be design considerations that won't be allowed, that's what HOA's are for, to keep the community atmosphere. And, Yes!, the utilities are all there!

I bemoaned the fact that no consideration was given to making the Blog cabin solar capable. That is until I considered the location of the Cabin. A spot in the woods isn't exactly the place for solar.

Amy,
We just spent a weekend in the Smoky Mountains in a rental cabin. The things we LOVED about this vacation was the view, the rustic look and feel of the materials, cooking marshmallows on the fire pit next to the cabin and of course, the hot tub out on the deck. I hope that at least some of these items are on the list for this dream cabin! I'm looking forward to watching this unfold!
Amy

Carol is correct - the Kinzel Springs web site helps to cover some issues that would be unknown otherwise. My personal list is a generalized one, and from the web site we can see a few answers.
All utilities are said to be there, but there is not a "conclusive" list of what all they are. For example, what fuel is used for heat - natural gas, propane, fuel oil, or electric? Each have their pro's and con's.
BTW, there are also pro's & con's related to gated, "secure" communities, and also with HOA's. They are NOT for "everybody"...

Bill
The points about auxiliary power and internal wiring distribution (actually for cable, phone, and fuel as well as power) are not obvious yet, but we can surmise that the contactor has a lot of experience with these issues and has solutions for this design. It would be nice to see some of the solutions - but when one is spending their own money it becomes much more important.

Hi Amy, and the rest of the bloggers. I've spent many years roaming the Smokie Mountains, and my favorite fishing hole is not far from the cabin. Of course, If we win, I'll invite a lot of you to visit. I'm a sociable type if you know what I mean. I've often said that if you can't relax in the Smokies, you need help. Just close your eyes and inhale that air, listen to the sounds of all those birds and in the spring time, the mountains explode in color. It is a part of this world of ours that is difficult to describe in words. Whoever wins, God bless. I hope you come to love the Smokies as much as we do. By the way, do yourself a favor and research the Smoky Mountains. Did you know that at one time they were taller than the Rockies? Of course, that was before my time. Good luck, everyone.

Amy! Your one lucky girl, Man I wish I could help you guys build that cabin. Can I? I love doing what you are doing and some day im going to build my own house/cabin for my self, By my self. I work in the studios as a special effects/piro man and been doing it along time. But if you all need some help please don't be shy and email me and
I'll be there....

Good Cold New England Afternoon

I think one of the things that would give the Log Cabin a cozy touch would be radiant heat. The bathroom, and hallway from a side door and maybe the tile floor on the kitchen.

What do you think

Good Cold New England Afternoon

I think one of the things that would give the Log Cabin a cozy touch would be radiant heat. The bathroom, and hallway from a side door and maybe the tile floor on the kitchen.

What do you think

Amy, I think maybe you should come look at Fish Lake, Utah if you want one heck of a wonderful place for a cabin, it get's like a WOW, WOW, WOW.
so take some time out and come see this mountain in the middle of Utah. Hope you can find the time to see this mountain.

Love DIY keep the great work up.
James C. Clift

Amy, we live in Townsend -- in Laurel Valley a mile or two from Kinzel Springs. You must eat at Sister Cat's and Miss Lily's if you have not already. They are great lunch spots. If you hanker for a great hot dog, try them at the Phillips 66 gas station - no kidding. They have the best dogs in town. The Trailhead Steak House is the best place for a steak. The Bear Camp Grill in Wears Valley is the best place for a burger. Enjoy your time there. My husband and I will be riding our scooters around Kinzel Springs checking the progress.

Hello There AMY,

WOW, I just read more of the comments before I posted mine and all I can say is unbelievable, actually very entertaining, I was also concerned about how are you going to get a gas line all the way to the mountain cabin for the gas fireplace, then again there is nothing like acouple of bottles of propane outside a cabin in the woods.
I am so excited that I have won the Cabin, oh man, I never have any kind of luck like this, Thank you so much. Oh man, what happened, can you believe this? I can, it's just the kind of luck I have day in and day out, I have been on the computer so long that I fell asleep and dreamt I was the winner of the cabin. If it weren't for bad luck I wouldn't have any luck at all. I have been reading so many of the other folks designs and ideas and then the next thing I know I was parading through my new cabin, I was dreaming and then I fell out of bed and that woke me up to the reality of life in my same old house and not in my new cabin, but that's ok.
I read one idea that mentioned copper for the roof instead of tin. Now that's a great idea and the beautiful green petina that would develope over the years of aging would blend in with the surrounding of the woods. I also read the concerns folks had with the metal roof, raising the concerns of fire. Taking into condideration that I watch DIY just about 24/7, I have learned at least one thing. As long as the proper steps are followed during the installation the chances of fire are slim to none, and the also goes for the concerns of moisture when thinking of condensation causing the concerns of mold spores developing. Let's see, between Amy, Carl and Nathan on DIY to the rescue, there are at least 25 to 30 years of experienced master woodworkers involved in the building of this cabin, and then we have, This Old House, with Norm Abrams, Tom Silva, Rich Trethewey and Roger Cook, I think the these areas of concern are well thought out and will be addressed with out great concern of compromising the quality that will be applied to this project. There are many years of experience here.
Moving on, I wouldn't mind seeing an L-shaped single level cabin with a 4 bay garage with 8 to 10 foot doors, maybe even higher in 1 bay so I could put a lift in so I can work on my cars. Hmmm, let me see, well then I'd need a work shop for my woodworking tools, am I still dreaming or what? How in the heck would any one of us handle the taxes on these things, before you know it Uncle Sam would be knocking at the door. OH YEAH no Beach houses for me thank you so much, the threat of a mega Tsunami is definitely coming, it's not a question of if it's a question of when so no beach front property for me.

i have not been to the smokies in a few years but i remember how beartiful it was

This cabin is going to be absolutley amazing. The location, the design, everything seems to be coming together. You must have a fantastic team of people, each putting a remarkable amount of themselves into this project. I enjoy reading all of the blogs, the pros and the cons. Well, I'll just keep coming back for more,

Amy,

Glad to see your as turned on by the look of log homes as I am. I had the pleasure of working with HGTV 2007 Dream Home here in colorado and I enjoyed that team as much as I enjoy the look of log and log homes. Keep pushing the logs, it makes living in a home really fun....

hi Amy!
me and my family have visited Townsend many many times and each time we love it more amd more!
it is a wonderful and beautiful place and if you cant relax there there is something wrong with you......We love to go to cades cove and drive the loop.... we have seen deer,bears,turkeys, there is also beautiful old churches and first settlers home places....these trips for me are the most relaxing and enjoyable
places i'v ever been
this is a great choice for a cabin! i hope i win!

Hey Amy, Just hear about this blog and the log cabin design and giveaway. This is awsome for DIY to be doing. Actually letting the contestants be part of the program in designing. I have to say allot of people do have the same preferences, however some of the less voted for makes it even more interesting and personal. Kind of like "Keeping up with the norm". And that is ok too. I prefer a taste of different things in life personally. I am a heart patient, recently disabeled, and facing a heart transplant, so with the good "Lord" willing I will survive and recover. To receive a cabin like this in one of the most desired location of my dreams would.. well be a dream come true as it would for everyone else as well. I know it has always been my favorite part of the country to visit if not just drive through. I wish everyone the best in luck and pray the winner is in need of such of a retreat as I am. To have such of a special home away from home retreat and be able to get back in touch with nature would be a sure second chance at life itself.
Thank you Amy and DIY for such a great way to give back to society, giving hopes and dreams to those who really need it.
"God" Bless you and may "God" bless the winner as well as the ones who participated, prayed and dreamed of answered prayers. Anything that brings you closer to "God" is a good thing.
Thank you again!

Hello again Amy,
Just a few thoughts with the design.
We once had a cabin in Stone Mountian NC, however it caught fire and was a total loss. With all of the forest fires during dry seasons, wouldnt a spring fed sprinkler system extended far from the house and attached to the tops of the perimeter and other trees be possible, to create a fire barrier? Not only could it be used for a irrigarion/lawn sprinkler system but also extra fire protection! Maybe offer a insurance discount for the owners. Another great thought to the system in place is you can create your own artificial snow on your property during the winter seasons when there is no snow. What a great view to have when your spending time to relax and want a winters scene or even a "White Christmas" or "Thanksgiving Gathering"!! WoW ! Who wouldn't want that?
Also, an Emergency Generator Backup Power Supply system should be considered as well.
And if there is a small basement it would be great to have a large wood burning stove with a heat exchanger to heat the upstairs via ducked vents.
A few other great ideas are working shutters that are lockable from the inside, video cameras to watch the wildlife on the TV's without interfering with them. Not to mention being used as part of a security system as well.
And Last, something I find best useable in the mountians, a private elevated multilevel observation deck, at roof level maybe, with a nice telescope to bring the stars right down to you. The dark mountian skys at night are the best ever for star gazing. A working waterwheel attached would bring calming white noise as well.
I hope some of these are a possibility and would be a great valued addition to the cabin and the lucky winner.
I know if I could design my own cabin, I would try my best to work it all in somehow.
Food for Thought Amy!
Opps, I forgot, you have got to try to find a great peice of art work to go over that beautiful foreplace. I suggest either and nice Thomas Kinkade or a Bob Ross painting. OK a Bob Timberlake would work too.
I would love to hear feedback on these ideas if possible?

Hi Amy, This is off the beaten path, but I just have to ask these questions. When the cabin is done will we have to walk up to the cabin? Also is there a problem with wolves there? I know here in Idaho, we are having tremdous problems with wolves. I live with moutains surrounding me in a small town, and we are getting these wolves coming into our back door. I hope that you will give me an answer back. Thank you.

Hi Amy, This is off the beaten path, but I just have to ask these questions. When the cabin is done will we have to walk up to the cabin? Also is there a problem with wolves there? I know here in Idaho, we are having tremdous problems with wolves. I live with moutains surrounding me in a small town, and we are getting these wolves coming into our back door. I hope that you will give me an answer back. Thank you.

I can answer for you. I live in Townsend. We have no wolves. They reintroduced some red wolves in the Great Smokey Mountain National Park a few years ago, but they did not survive. We do have some coyotes, but you seldom ever see them. We have seen in our yard wild turkeys, black bears, grey foxes, ground hogs, chipmunks, skunks, deer, squirrels, snakes, lots of birds, etc. We once saw two coyotes in Cades Cove, but none in our community.

Hey Guys,
The Townsend area is supposed to be a secret! Or not! (that seems to be a real debate here HA HA). I own an A-frame in the mountains at the other end of Townsend and live in Maryville! This place is GORGHEOUS!!! When to coyotes start yelping at night it gives one repose of how life really should be! The most vicious animals here however, are the mosquetoes and maybe the skunks (if they spray you). Thes rest of the creatures pretty much mind thier own business.

For those who look forward to visiting, plan to be totally "re-created" at the end of your stay. If your goal is to come to the area and be completely worn out at the end of your stay, go to Gatlinburg!

Best Wishes From The
"Peaceful Side Of The Smokies"!

Our plan for retirement has ALWAYS been TOWNSEND...ever since our first first trip to
Tremont Campground in 1981 while in college-we have been in love with Townsend. I got online today-just to look at Kinzel Springs and happened upon this blog first thing-and of course Im going to enter the contest! We have camped, hiked, fished - practically raised our boys there over the years-we live about 2hrs away-we know most trials, my husband and boys-know every trout stream-The plan-I would continue working at home from our cabin and my husband would retire and start as a fly fishing guide! Our last son leaves for college in the fall and we've have started looking at cabins--
Winning a cabin would be completely unbelievable.

I'm new on this and am seeing that the cabin will be in the Great Smokies on the TN side of the line. This is my family's ancestral home back to the late 1700's and a beautiful area. I do love the idea of having the main floor be wheel-chair or at least limited-mobility accessible with at least a ramp and one bedroom and one bath easily accessible to my step-mom for whom walking much is difficult. I would also hope for lots of extra space for sleeping lofts and pull-out or murphy-type beds and at least a few bathrooms. I'm hoping for a big stone fireplace and also a patio built around another campfire circle with room for several to lounge around in the evenings. While I'm dreaming, will there be a stream for fishing and an open flat grassy area for a fun volleyball game before dinner? We have a big reunion with 80 people every summer in the Asheville area and would love to be able to share the cabin with visitors for some extra relaxation before and after. It would be soooo cool to win this playground! Thanks for allowing my to dream a bit. Debbie in Northern California

I love the mountains - especially in the fall - and having driven through the Smokey Mountains a time or two I can vouch for the natural beauty of that area. A cabin up there would be a delightful place to take an early retirement to! Just one question - will there be high speed Internet available? That may not be something part time visitors would want but living there full time I would need it especially since I have an online business!

Kinzel Springs is a wonderful area with BEAUTIFUL
Cabins/homes. This would be a dream come true to win a cabin there. What a wonderful idea to build a cabin in Kinzel Springs, Townsend,TN the peaceful side of the Smokies....

I just looked at the Kinzel Springs site again, it really is fantastic to have privacy and security(gated community) I love that. Gated way up in the mountains,wow. With paved roads I dont even have paved roads,West Palm Beach FL.
Has anyone from DIY seen the 18th century log cabin on that property?
How about Salamanders on the property ? 6 miles away is the Smokey mountain park, KS site link says its the "Salamander Capital of the World"!
At least thirty species of salamanders live in the park.
Looks like a GREAT place.

That really is a great place to build the cabin.
Been through there a few years back and loved it.
Look forward to a chance at winning this one.

Wish I could win. Centeral N C is allright however Iliki the high county of CO

Wish I could win

I moved from Colorado to Tennessee in 1991 and my intentions were to live in Townsend, but circumstances kept me in Cleveland,Tn and my wife and I go to Townsend anytime we get a chance
I have not been in Kinzel Springs but anywhere on the quiet side is nice. Originally I am from Texas but I have always loved Mountains and the Smokey Mtns. are the most beautiful

AMY-- good job , very good job. I just need it out west!!!

I visited the cabin this weekend and loved it. I was so intrigued by the show I had to see it since I frequent the Smoky Mountains. Now I just wish it was mine.