Are we ever excited to get started on The Little Cottage In The Woods – which will become our newest rental cabin project at the farm. And the building process is all scheduled to begin next March!
Our rental cabins have been so much fun to have on the farm. We love seeing guests walking around all of the trees, gardens, trails, and open spaces. Even more – we love seeing them be able to slow down, unplug, and enjoy the peace that comes with being tucked away in their own private space near the woods.
But as the farm continues to grow, so has the demand for overnight stays. With more weddings, private events, workshops, and the continued expansion of the Grassland Gardens, we knew it was time to create another special place for visitors to call home when they want to stick around for a few nights. But they key is always trying to create something that “fits in” with the surroundings.
That idea led us to our newest project – a one floor plan, perfectly sized cottage in the woods that hopefully blends beauty, comfort, and durability!
The Little Cottage In The Woods
A Cottage Designed To Feel Cozy, But Live Big
This new space is designed around a base footprint of a 24′ deep x 30′ wide cabin – but with an extra little bump out for the master bedroom. It also includes a side screened in porch to enjoy the outdoors for days when it rains.
The total living area will come in at just under 800 feet – which is ideal for couples, solo travelers, or guests attending events at the farm. We really hope it will offer just the right balance of space and simplicity!
The Layout
Inside, the layout is open and inviting. The living area has a large open air ceiling that creates a comfortable space to relax. The kitchen is also connected to the living space, making the cabin feel larger and more welcoming than the actual footprint suggests.
The bedroom offers plenty of room without wasting space. A full bathroom, utility closet, and storage areas are all included in the plan. We want to ensure that guests have everything they need without clutter or excess.
One of our favorite features is the side screened porch, which is right off of the main living and kitchen area. Best of all, it faces the open woods below to view wildlife and more. The space will allow guests to enjoy the outdoors in comfort, whether it’s morning coffee, an evening breeze, or listening to the sounds of nature without worrying about bugs!
A covered front porch adds even more charm and function, welcoming guests as they arrive and giving the cottage that classic, tucked-into-the-woods feel .
Building A Cabin To Last
When we design and build on the farm, we really try to stick with materials that have already proven themselves. The Little Cottage At The Farm will be no different. We will use many of the same finishes and systems we’ve installed in our other buildings, including the event center and cabins.
The floors will be acid stained concrete, which we absolutely love. Concrete floors are incredibly durable, easy to clean, and perfect for a farm setting. They handle muddy shoes, heavy traffic, and seasonal changes without issue.
From a design standpoint, stained concrete adds a clean, modern look that still feels warm when paired with wood and fabrics. Even better, it keeps final building costs down too. After all – the slab is your final floor! See: How To Acid Stain Concrete Floors – Create Amazing Low Maintenance Floors With Style!
For the exterior, the cottage will continue to use the textured metal board and batten siding. And, as usual, combine it with stone accents. This combination gives the cabin a timeless look that fits naturally into a woodland setting while also standing up to the elements year after year.
Metal siding requires very little maintenance, resists moisture, and holds up beautifully in all seasons. Stone adds depth and character to the exterior. It also ties the building visually to the land, making the cottage feel like it belongs exactly where it sits rather than looking dropped into place .
Comfort In Every Season
For us, comfort is just as important as appearance. Especially for overnight guests. This cottage will be heated with on demand radiant floor heat. It’s one of our favorite features across the farm.
Radiant heat keeps the entire space warm evenly, without drafts or cold spots. It’s quiet, efficient, and incredibly comfortable, especially during Ohio winters. Guests immediately notice the difference when they step inside.
For cooling, we’ll again be using split air conditioning units. They allow for efficient temperature control without taking up valuable floor space. These systems are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and give guests control over their comfort throughout their stay.
Together, the systems keep operating costs down while providing a high level of comfort, something that matters both for us as owners and for guests staying at the farm.
Construction Timeline & Opening Plans For The Little Cottage In The Woods
Construction on the cottage is scheduled to begin in March of 2026. Once again we will be working with Weaver Barns on the build. They have become an amazing partner as we build out the farm!
Once winter loosens its grip and the ground is ready, we can start pouring concrete! We expect the build to move steadily through the spring and early summer. Our goal is to have the cottage completed and open by the end of July, just in time for peak summer events, garden visits, and overnight stays.
We’re incredibly excited to watch the project take shape and to eventually welcome guests into this little cottage in the woods. It’s another step forward for the farm, and one more way we can share this place we love with others.
If the past is any indication, we think this one is going to be something truly special. If you haven’t checked it out – take a look at the new farm website here to see all we have to offer! See: The Farm @ Old World Garden
Happy Gardening – And Living! Jim & Mary.
Old World Garden Farms
Jim and Mary Competti have been writing gardening, DIY and recipe articles and books for over 15 years from their 46 acre Ohio farm. The two are frequent speakers on all things gardening and love to travel in their spare time.
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