We had so much fun writing about camper renovation recently, and it got such a great response, that we decided we wanted to continue our thought process “outside the dwelling box”.  People have inhabited all sorts of neat and unusual places throughout history, and the types of structures that we have called home have often come to define our cultures.  Today, we’re exploring teepees!  Yes, teepees!

Teepees were originally and traditionally used by the Native American tribes of the great plains.  They are perfect little homes for nomadic people for all sorts of different reasons, and here are a few!

1.  Teepees stay warm in the winter, and cool in the summer

2.  Teepees are portable!  They could be packed up and moved to follow the seasons and the animal herds

3.  They were durable and functional- the hole in the top allowed for smoke to escape when fires were built inside

Nowadays, teepees tend to be less of a practical home, and more of a fashionable design statement.  There are so many beautifully redone teepees in all different styles!  Some of my favorites are the teepees that mix western with bohemian.  Here are some pictures of the most beautiful modern day teepees we could find!

Let’s start off strong.  This is Ralph Lauren’s teepee from his ranch in Telluride!  I love every little element in this room, from the native print rugs, to the desk to the tree trunk coffee table, to the picture hanging on the “wall”!

Image via Google

This is one of the western-bohemian teepees I was talking about!  I love the layered rugs and all of the different patterns.  I also love the quality of light that you get in a canvas house!

Image via Pinterest

This is a more permanent type of teepee I think!  But I really like how the shape and size represents a teepee, while the wood and windows give it more of a cabin feel!

Image via Bohemian Homes

This is another of Ralph’s lovely teepees!  It actually might be the same teepee, just a different view, I’m not sure.  Either way, the style carries over with the stretched hide, Pendleton blankets, and lasso around the bedpost!

Image via Cynmorfeener

Another great example of mixing styles, this teepee combines all different types of prints in the bedding and fabrics, while tying western with exotic in the furniture and accessory selection.  The chair and end table look very western, while the nightstand and the accessories look Asian!

Image via Gypsy Lolita

I just loved this picture.  I know it’s not the inside of a teepee, but it sure is beautiful, isn’t it?

Image via Tumblr

This is a more traditional looking teepee, set up as a gathering place rather than a sleeping/living area.  Again, love the colors and use of native prints here.  Would love to sit by this fire!

Image via Pinterest

This is a more simply decorated teepee, that actually reminds me more of a lodge or a cabin than a teepee!

Image via Tumblr

What do you think?  Are you as excited now about teepees as I am?  Have you seen any great examples of teepee interior design?  Share with us!  You can share with us on Facebook, or pin with us on Pinterest!  What is your favorite “outside the dwelling box” structure?