About this cabin
This 8×12 cabin was built for a lot on Protection Island, a small car-free island about 15 minutes by boat from Nanaimo, BC. At 8′ x 12′ (96 sq/ft), it’s a Modern-Shed with a coastal look: a single-slope roof with exposed rib beams, tan lap siding, lime trim and corrugated steel on the ends. It was built in a shop, then went to the island by trailer, ferry and barge. The photos follow the whole trip.
A coastal cabin for an island lot
The cabin has a single-slope roof and a deep front overhang that shades the glass doors. Inside, the ceiling is pine tongue-and-groove, with exposed rib beams, and the walls and floor are simple, light and easy to keep clean. Outside, the Hardie lap siding is paired with corrugated steel and lime trim.
Built in a shop on the mainland
Most of the work was done in a shop. The floor panel went down first, then the walls were framed and wrapped, and the siding and trim were finished before the cabin was loaded. Building indoors keeps the crew out of the rain and keeps the work moving.
Loaded and on the road
The finished cabin was strapped to a tandem-axle trailer and towed with a pickup truck. A wide load sign on the front of the truck and one on the back of the trailer warn other drivers. The trip included a BC Ferries crossing.
| Location | Protection Island, near Nanaimo, British Columbia |
|---|---|
| Size | 8′ x 12′ (96 sq/ft) |
| Design | Coastal Modern-Shed with exposed rib beams |
| Overhangs | Front 24″; sides and rear 6″ |
| Siding | Hardie lap siding and corrugated steel |
| Ceiling | Pine tongue-and-groove |
| Door | 60″ full-lite fibreglass French door |
| Windows | Two 30″ x 72″ vented windows |
| Power | Yes |
| Delivery | Trailer, ferry and barge |
More photos
The photos below show the barge crossing and the landing on the island.
What to plan before building a cabin for an island
Getting a building to an island takes a bit more planning than a trip across town.
- Size: an 8×12 fits on a narrow trailer and can be lifted on and off a barge in one piece.
- Route: plan the ferry and barge schedule, the landing and the road from the dock to the lot.
- Weather: a covered, wrapped shell and a fast crossing keep the building dry.
- Power: plan the electrical connection at the lot, since island service can differ.
- Permits and approvals: an island can have its own bylaws and rules. Check with the local authority before you order.
Frequently asked questions
How big is this cabin?
It’s 8 feet by 12 feet, which is 96 sq/ft (about 8.9 m²) of floor space.
How did the cabin get to the island?
It was built in a shop, then moved by trailer and ferry, and finally by barge for the last crossing to Protection Island.
What is it made of?
The walls are finished with Hardie lap siding and corrugated steel. Inside, the ceiling is pine tongue-and-groove with exposed rib beams.
Do you need a permit for a cabin?
It depends on the size, the use and the local rules. See the Shed Rules by City and Maximum Shed Size Without a Permit guides, then check with your local authority.
More outbuildings to explore
Browse more Backyard Outbuildings, read Maximum Shed Size Without a Permit, or check the Shed Rules by City.