1935 Cabin Revived with Style

Never judge a book by its cover, or you just may miss out on something fabulous. On the exterior, this cabin looks nondescript, but inside the tale is quite the opposite. Every room boasts special touches and great ideas, proving not-so-big houses can still max out on style.

Lay of the Land
The community of Cedar Crest, developed around the clear, crisp waters of Spring Creek, the impressive bluffs, and the area's beautiful woods, holds a natural attraction for hunting and fishing enthusiasts. Located about 45 minutes northeast of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the area includes about 103 cabins, mostly used as weekend getaways. But some people, such as Sallie Hughes, choose to call the setting home year-round.

Instead of stripping it down to the bare bones, Sallie used much of what existed and just added her sense of style to the 1935 cabin she purchased and revived. What's her secret? As a designer for 25 years, Sallie has seen her fair share of trends, but she stays timeless by pairing classic pieces with modern touches.

Achieving a light and bright look isn't always easy, especially when you're nestled in the woods. Sallie used the same creamy white color palette from ceiling to floor. Instead of refinishing the floors, she created a fresh look by completely stripping them and painting the original subfloor creamy white. She also replaced exterior solid doors with glass ones. Skylights installed in the living room allow even more sunshine to filter into the space.

Living Big
Each room flows freely from one to the next. The living room is made up of several seating areas that can easily be opened up when entertaining. This space is the ultimate mélange of styles. From classic wing chairs to the contemporary feel of the leather chairs, the mix keeps the area from feeling too stiff. And even though the room's dimensions are on the petite side, there's still plenty of seating.

left: A pair of chairs, replicas of 1927 Italian cube chairs, look cozy but stylish in this setting. Notice the black pedestal in the corner; it rotates to reveal a television hidden inside.

Step into the dining room, and you quickly realize it's for so much more than just eating--and there's nothing formal about it. Cozy wing chairs flank a rustic console table. In the front corner, a comfy daybed (a fun Paris find) is ideal for a quick catnap or for reading a good book.

A large, round gate-leg table sits front and center. Surrounded by a collection of rich red-leather chairs, it anchors the perfect entertaining set-up. The chairs are comfortable, and a round table promotes conversation.

Even with the neutral walls, there is no loss for color in the room. A multicolored Herez rug and a vibrant painting add splash to the space.

left: Blend new with cherished favorites. The large antique dining table pairs well with sleek red-leather chairs. Painted by Sallie's sister-in-law Marsha Moore Hughes, the artwork is one of nine in a series and a focal point in the room.

Simple fixes, such as a fresh coat of paint or taking off cabinet doors, do wonders to update a kitchen. The fresh white color palette carries into this room. Open shelves let the dishes star in the space.

left: Big pieces can fit comfortably in a small space. Entertaining friends calls for a full-size sofa, so use petite accent tables to keep rooms from feeling crowded.

For many months of the year, Sallie doesn't even bother turning on the air-conditioner. Why would you when you have the cool breezes coming down the bluff to circulate inside? Screened windows and doors are essential. Just off the dining room stands a comfortable screened porch that is sparsely decorated except for the surrounding woods, perfect for enjoying the weather and nature.

The incredible views make the front deck a popular spot. French doors open from the living room onto the deck, which is furnished with plenty of seating and a small dining table for casual nights spent with family and friends.

left: Cool and contemporary, this screened-in porch sits just off the dining room. Stylish white chairs are a great alternative to outdoor furniture.

left: Don't let hallway space go to waste. Floor-to-ceiling built-ins afford plenty of room for books and other collections.

left: No furniture wall in the bedroom? Place the bed below a window. Draperies can frame a bed, giving it presence in the room.

This article is from the September 2005 issue of Southern Living.