Two years ago, I moved into a small off-grid cottage that I built myself from the ground up. This project started as a personal challenge, but over time, it became a way of reconnecting with my family’s past and creating a life of self-sufficiency. The cottage itself is more than just a home; it’s a testament to years of hard work, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for the natural world.
The story begins with the Larch trees that were planted by my grandfather in the 1930s. These trees were the foundation of my cottage, quite literally. I cut 100 cants from the Larch trees using a chainsaw, and then I let them sit for a year to dry out properly. This was crucial for ensuring the wood would be stable and suitable for construction. After they had seasoned, I sized and milled them myself, creating the timber for the frame, flooring, and siding of my cottage. Every piece of wood had a purpose, and the natural beauty of the Larch gave the structure an earthy, rustic appeal.
For the interior, I chose to use all cherry wood for the breakfast nook, adding a touch of elegance to the cabin while still keeping the homely, rustic feel. The stairs were made from timber sourced directly from the property, using materials that were either already downed or naturally fallen over the years. This gave the space a personal touch and a connection to the land.
One of the most rewarding aspects of building this cottage was sourcing the materials directly from the land around me. The stones used to conceal the bottom of the structure were all hand-picked from the property, and they helped create a natural foundation that blended seamlessly with the surrounding environment. It felt amazing to know that almost every material used came from the very land that had been in my family for generations.
The project itself took about five years, and the bulk of the work was done during weekends and occasional full weeks off every couple of months. I estimate that I did 90% of the work myself, from cutting and milling the wood to assembling the frame and constructing the various components. The isolation of the location, about a mile off pavement with no power within a couple of miles, made the project both challenging and rewarding. Every step required ingenuity and determination. There was no running water, no electricity, no easy access to tools and supplies, so I had to rely heavily on my own resourcefulness.
The cottage is entirely off-grid, but it is equipped with all the necessities for comfortable living. I have a generator that provides electricity when needed, a propane wall heater to keep warm during cold months, and a wood stove for added coziness. Water is supplied by a 275-gallon fresh water tank, and I also have a 30-gallon electric hot water tank to ensure I have hot water for showers and cleaning. The cottage includes a full bathroom, making it a true home, even without the usual connections to public utilities.
Living here now, for two years, has been incredibly fulfilling. The cottage is a reflection of my own hard work and my family’s legacy. It stands as a symbol of self-sufficiency, a place where I can truly disconnect from the noise of modern life and enjoy the simplicity and tranquility of being surrounded by nature. It’s not just a place to live—it’s a way of life. Despite the challenges, there’s no place I’d rather be. It’s a life that brings me peace and a deep sense of satisfaction, and I wouldn’t change a thing. This is my happy life. 🏁🏁
