As housing costs continue to skyrocket, more people are warming up to the idea of living in the woods to escape rising rent and mortgage payments. But it’s not just about embracing solitude to cut costs; plenty of Americans want to live in nature because they feel happier and healthier in the great outdoors. While most are likely to live semi-close to civilization, some would rather live alone on a secluded island. If this sounds like you, it may be time to ask yourself – are you ready to live off the grid?

The Move Back to Nature

At some point in history, our ancestors thrived in nature while wearing nothing but loincloths and blanketing themselves with rocks. Okay, so that latter part may not be true, but there are plenty of studies that reveal a direct correlation between nature and happiness.

For instance, researcher Frances Kuo studied housing projects in Illinois with trees versus those without. She found that the housing projects with trees had lower crime rates and levels of aggression. The thinking behind this is that living in an environment with trees encouraged neighbors to spend more time outside socializing with each other, thus forming more meaningful connections.

Another study conducted by psychologists John Zelenski and Elizabeth Nisbet discovered that our emotional connections with nature shaped our attitudes and lifestyle choices. They found that our connection to nature correlated with our well-being, and that it was distinct to other connections in our life such as those with family and friends. More importantly, psychological connections with nature were found to positively influence attitudes toward sustainability, which is essential for preserving the environment.

And it makes sense. Nature gives us the ability to disconnect from the fast-paced technological world we’re used to and connect with our more primal instincts. It also encourages us to take better care of the planet when we’re constantly interacting with the natural world around us. So now that we understand nature makes up happier people, what’s not to love about living off the grid?

The Realities of Isolated Living

Supplies

Turns out there are some things you may not love about living in an isolated area, one of which being the inconvenience of obtaining supplies.

Gone are the days of walking down the street to Kroger for water and toilet paper. Depending on where you live, getting groceries could turn into a trek and a half. When shopping for supplies, it’s important for residents of remote areas to stock up as much as possible. However, for supplies like firewood and water, some homeowners in the wilderness like to chop their own wood. There are also ways to filter lake water for drinking and cleaning purposes. And if you really get hungry, you can always go fishing or hunting for your next meal. Best part, it’s completely free.

Emergency Care 

The further you are from densely populated areas, the harder it is for first responders to reach you in the case of an emergency. Those living in remote areas are advised to learn first aid and pre-hospital care practices. This way they can assist themselves and others while waiting on emergency care professionals to arrive.

Extreme Weather 

Depending on where you decide to live, you need to know what kind of weather to expect for every season, as well as any natural disasters at risk of occurring. Extreme weather poses a threat to even the most prepared and careful individuals. As a rule of thumb, it’s essential to own an emergency first aid kit, have plenty of water and non-perishable food stored away, heat and light sources, and be aware of any incoming changes in weather. If blizzards often occur in your chosen location, check out this helpful article from Eureka detailing survival tactics in the event of a snowstorm. Otherwise, it’s always a good idea to winterize your home or cabin prior to the winter season.

Could You Abandon City Living? 

Isolated Doesn’t Mean Lonely

It’s often assumed that people who live alone or in isolated areas are lonely, but research shows that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, even some of the most densely populated cities in the world can feel incredibly isolating for residents who see hundreds of people in a day but never interact with them.

The reality is that there’s a clear divide between being isolated and being lonely. Those who are isolated but not lonely often demonstrate the following characteristics:

• They enjoy their own company and tend to be reserved
• They either have satisfying relationships with family and friends or have always kept to themselves
• They usually don’t have children
• They’re self-sufficient people
• They spend holidays alone by choice

If you don’t find these characteristics relatable, remote living may not be the right fit for you. This is especially true if you wish for more friends or feel lonely quite a bit. But remember, everyone can feel lonely no matter where they live in the world so it’s essential to find an environment that matches your personality and lifestyle best.

Choosing Your Next Home

So now that you have a broad scope of what to anticipate before moving to a remote or rural area, here are a few additional details to consider.

Location

How far do you actually want to be from civilization? While some outdoorsy folks would be thrilled to live a secluded existence in the forest, others might find themselves on the fence. Are you willing to drive an hour, maybe two hours to your nearest grocery store, mechanic or hospital? These are all factors to think about prior to picking out your plot of land. The cheap cost of living in a remote area may be exciting, but just make sure it’s not the primary consideration in your decision.

Comfort

How comforting is it to live in isolation? Does the thought of being alone for hours, days, and weeks on end seem like a perfect living situation or a prison sentence? Depending on how self-reliant you are, you may find that you have no trouble adjusting to a life in the great outdoors. And while you may love using a composting toilet or bathing in the lake, it’s not a necessity for everyone living in remote areas. You can install modern plumbing or heating sources in remote structures, but it’s recommended that you hire a professional in case of complications. Keep in mind you could end up paying more to cover the travel costs for your handyman. Nevertheless, it’s better to know your comfort level rather than try to adapt to a lifestyle you’re not completely on board with.

Technology

Those who enjoy the small comforts of modern technology, like a computer with Wi-Fi or smart phone, might find themselves restless without the ability to easily connect with others on the Internet. If this is the case, you’ll want to ensure you have internet access set up in your new residence. Luckily, you still have plenty of access to modern conveniences, including solar panels, that make remote living feel less primitive.

And after all this, if you find yourself desiring a level of modern comfort while still feeling eager to get away, you may want to consider cabin living as a great middle ground. The choice is yours!

Any equine enthusiast will agree that horses enrich their lives. Aside from the obvious physical benefits that come with ownership, many mental, emotional, and social reasons make buying a horse a great investment. But when it comes to deciding whether to care for your horses at home or board them at a stable, horse owners have trouble choosing between the two. If you’re still weighing the pros and cons, consider the following pointers.

The Bare Necessities

How Much Does a Horse Cost?

Caring for a horse can cost anywhere between $200 to $325 per month – an annual average of $3,876, according to finance consulting site Money Crashers. Some of these costs include:

• Grain/feed
• Hay
• Pasture
• Salts/minerals
• Farrier service
• Veterinary care
• Utilities
• Tack and supplies
• Bedding
• Insurance
• Riding lessons
• Truck and trailer purchase

It’s important to consider that boarding costs can drive up these annual projections depending on where you live. For example, it can cost $600 a month to board a horse outside Portland, whereas a farm in a wealthy area of New York might charge $1,300 a month per horse. While a cheaper option, housing a horse on your property comes with a great deal of feeding and daily maintenance that can be physically and financially taxing.

Prior to purchasing a horse, you should create a budget based on how much you anticipate to spend annually on housing and care costs. You can also try to cut costs by shopping for cheap but good-quality hay and learning to trim your horse’s hooves.

How Much Does a Horse Eat?

Every horse is unique and requires a different quantity of food. That being said, a horse’s calories should always come from roughage, meaning good-quality hay or pasture. It’s recommended that horses eat about 1 percent of their body weight in hay or pasture grasses and legumes on a daily basis. Horses that primarily consume hay as their forage typically eat fifteen to twenty pounds of hay per day. A typical 1,000-pound horse fed hay and grain should eat about 20 to 25 pounds a day. Similarly, horses with endless access to a good-quality pasture can eat up to 25 pounds a day. While grass is said to be the most natural and ideal food source for horses, hay is a perfectly good alternative so long as it is the right hay for your horse.

How Often Do Horses Need to Exercise?

As natural grazers, horses need daily exercise. It’s best if owners have a paddock or pasture where horses can nibble and graze throughout the day. On average, horses that are free to move around for most of the day need about 15 to 20 minutes of exercise. Horses kept in stables need at least 30 minutes of exercise on a daily basis.

Depending on the type of work and amount your horse performs, experts also recommend designing a workout that meets your horse’s needs. For instance, if your horse is used for trail riding, their daily workout should include trail riding with speed intervals to build their strength and stamina. Whichever workout routine you decide on, it’s important to be consistent with your horse’s workout schedule. Failure to do so can result in unforeseen injuries caused by re-introducing a horse into a full daily workout without any warm-up.

Grooming Considerations

Grooming is an essential part of owning a horse. Daily grooming helps horses develop a healthy, shiny coat and owners identify any cuts or irritations. Those who ride daily also know that grooming your horse beforehand is a must, considering grit beneath the saddle or girth can irritate your horse’s skin and possibly cause saddle or girth sores. Even if you don’t plan to ride your horse daily, it’s still a good idea to stick to a consistent grooming schedule.

Before grooming your horse, experts recommend having the following items in a wide bucket located in a safe, easy-to-reach area:

• A curry comb or grooming mitt
• Stiff bristled body brush
• A mane and tail comb
• Soft-bristled finishing brush
• Hoof pick
• Clean sponge or soft cloth
• Optional grooming spray, hoof ointment, and scissors

One of the best ways to start grooming is by checking the hooves of your horse for any cracks or changes. You’ll then want to pick out all dirt or anything else in your horse’s hoof. This helps you maintain your horse’s health while effectively removing anything that could prevent you from riding that day.

Then, you’ll want to take your curry comb and start brushing from the neck to the rear. This removes dirt and increases circulation in the skin, which then releases natural oils in your horse’s skin. Afterward, you’ll want to grab your stiff bristled body brush and repeat the same motion, this time using a quick flicking motion to remove any extra hair or dirt. You’ll then take your finishing brush and use long strokes from the neck to the rear to get rid of any remaining dust. You can also use the brush on and around your horse’s face. Lastly, you’ll want to groom the mane and tail by combing small sections from the bottom to top until you can brush the tail from top to bottom without catching any knots.

Boarding a Horse

Partials vs. Full Boarding

Horse owners are offered a few options for boarding, the most popular being partial boarding and full boarding.

It’s important to keep in mind that people who partially board their horses will no longer be the horse’s owner. Instead, you pay a portion of the board in order to use the horse for a set number of hours per week and at specific times. Depending on the contract, you could also be responsible for covering veterinarian and farrier fees. Essentially, you can expect to pay less, but with the knowledge that you will have limited access to your horse and cannot maintain ownership.

On the other hand, owners who choose to board their horses full-time can expect to pay more to receive all the benefits of full boarding. This includes unlimited access to their horse and grooming and care services provided by someone else. However, this option can be extremely expensive depending on your location, how many horses you own, and if your board includes lessons, arena, and equipment use. Additionally, owners might be tempted to neglect their horses if they assume they’re getting the best services provided to them. If you decide full boarding is the best option for you, you should plan to check on the horse frequently to make sure it is in good health.

Cost of Boarding a Horse

As mentioned earlier, where you live can determine how expensive boarding costs will be. Expect to pay more if you live close to or in an urban area, as taxes and land costs are typically higher near major cities. Other factors that can drive up costs include competition for the stable, facilities and amenities available, services provided, and costs of traveling to see your horse. If you live close to an urban area and want to board your horse at a well-serviced stable with lessons, you could end up paying over $700 a month. Otherwise, you can find some boards for a dollar a day or perform labor in exchange for partial payments.

Housing Your Own Horse

How Much Land Do You Need?

Those who feel confident in their abilities to care for a horse full-time should consider the amount of land needed in order to keep their horses healthy and happy. This amount can range depending on the number of horses you own, the size of your horse, and management plans. With excellent management, horses can happily graze on as little as one acre but two acres is generally recommended.

Cost of Housing Your Own Horse

In order to house your horse, you’ll likely need your own barn. If you already have your own barn, you’ll want to make sure the facility is in good condition and allows you to care for your horses in a way that’s convenient for you and healthy for them. It’s important to note that the minimum size for a loose box stable is 10’ x 10’ to 12’ x 12’. However, this is passable for riding horses and is not recommended for draft breeds or if you’re expecting a foal.

Those wishing to house their own horses should anticipate the cost of hay, feed concentrate/supplements, bedding, manure removal, water, and utilities for the barn. If you haven’t yet built your barn or plan on moving to a larger plot, you’ll want to calculate your average monthly mortgage payment. All of these costs, plus any additional services you may need or want, can total up to $300 to $400 a month.

Before purchasing your horse, be sure to consider these costs associated with horse ownership so you can properly plan for any unexpected expenses and ensure the well-being of your equine friend.

In recent years, the demand for affordable, eco-friendly housing options has led many prospective homebuyers to start considering unconventional alternatives to traditional homes. While some may cringe at the thought of living in an upgraded tent out in the woods, for others it offers a unique opportunity to bypass record-high housing prices and curb their carbon footprint. And as more Americans continue to spend over half their incomes on rent or home mortgage payments, it’s easy to see why these alternatives are more popular than ever, especially with millennials. Here’s a glimpse at some of the trendiest options on the market and what you’ll want to consider before signing on the dotted line.

Why are People Pursuing Alternative Housing?

Our current housing market is one of the most competitive markets in recorded history, according to Realtor.com chief economist Danielle Hale. While millennials are planning to buy their first home, baby boomers are looking to downsize as they get closer to retirement. As these generations fight for smaller, more affordable homes, it seems there are far more buyers than there are sellers willing to part with their residences. Thus the prospect of downsizing comes with the added headache of competing for a limited pool of options. Those who are able to downsize can reap many benefits including decreased burdens on their wallets and natural resources. This is where alternative housing comes in. It offers a solution to the competitive nature of our current market by giving millennials and soon-to-be retirees a chance to own property that’s affordable, eco-friendly, and meets all their basic needs.

Alternative Housing Ideas

Tiny Homes

Unless you get claustrophobic, tiny homes can be a great alternative to conventional housing options. According to Vice, a tiny home can cost anywhere between $23,000 and $60,000, depending on whether you construct it yourself or hire a professional builder. Though comparable to studio apartments in size, minimalist homeowners seem to really love them. It’s even grown so popular that HGTV introduced the “Tiny House Hunters” series and the state of Georgia recently approved construction for a tiny house neighborhood in Clarkston.

While the obvious benefits that come with owning a tiny home include reduced energy usage, housing costs, and environmental impact, the lack of personal space and cramped living quarters are frequent issues amongst owners. Standard tiny homes typically offer less than 400 sq. ft., meaning it’s probably comfortable for one or two people to live in at a time.

Reader’s Digest also warns of hidden costs associated with owning a tiny home, including inflated building fees and resale value. Every city has different zoning, building, inspection, and land use laws, so it’s important to research the zoning codes and regulations for your municipality ahead of time. However, if your tiny home is registered as an RV and you plan to travel with it, you won’t have to stress over strict regulations – you’ll just need to know where to park it.

Another aspect to consider is the resale value of a tiny home. If a home is permanently affixed to a foundation or otherwise in a highly desirable location, it will likely have a better resale value than a tiny home on wheels. While it may be more costly to live in a popular location, it’s worth considering if you plan on moving one day or having kids. For more information on tiny house zoning regulations, Curbed provides a comprehensive breakdown of everything you’ll need to know prior to building.

Yurts

What originally began as a portable dwelling primarily used by nomadic cultures in Central Asia is now one of the most popular forms of resort-style camping, otherwise known as “glamping”. While Airbnb might be quick to advertise them as short-term rentals, some consider yurts their full-time residence.

Yurts are best suitable for those who prefer the wilderness to city life, especially if the idea of camping forever sounds like a dream. They resemble a dome-like tent from the outside, but are often customized to feel luxurious inside. Yurts tend to cost $2,000 to $6,000 to purchase as a kit and take about two days to assemble, which makes them highly-desirable for frugal outdoor enthusiasts.  Not all outdoorsy folks are ready to rough it on a regular basis though.

Those who enjoy the convenience of an in-house bathroom and shower, central air conditioning, and separate rooms should seek other alternatives. For starters, permanent yurt dwellers typically use outhouses with a composting toilet to keep odors and flies away from the structure. However, there are ways to build a bathroom in a yurt, it’s just a less common practice. If you plan on showering regularly, you can rig a tree with a bucket and use solar power to heat the water or otherwise bathe in a lake nearby. Those sweltering hot summers and freezing cold winters will also be a challenge, considering your air conditioning and heating comes from natural energy sources such as an outdoor fire or a nice cool breeze unless you’re using solar energy. And lastly, you can forget having fights if you live with someone else, considering a yurt is anywhere from 115 to 700 sq. ft. in size with no interior walls.

If you’re still convinced yurt living is ideal for you and want to know more, you can visit Pacific Yurts for additional information on yurt dwellings.

Mobile & Manufactured Homes

About 17.7 million Americans live in manufactured homes, according to Apartment List. They’re the largest source of unsubsidized affordable housing in the U.S., with one in ten households living below the poverty line. This makes them one of the best options for those struggling to meet sky-high payments for a site-built home or apartment. As with any upside, here’s one major downside to manufactured homes you might want to consider.

Owning a manufactured home is a lot like owning a car in the sense that their value depreciates over time. Homebuyers dazzled by the idea of paying $292,600 less on average than a site-built home should first consider the land on which their manufactured home is placed. Some homeowners will try buying the land their home sits on, hoping the property will appreciate even if the structure doesn’t. Others will take on interior renovations or build a permanent foundation to raise the overall value. Many opt for placing their manufactured home in a mobile home park, which means they have to rent the land. By the time they’re ready to move, they either won’t own the property or the home won’t have much value. Even worse, if they can’t sell the home, they may need to pay someone as much as $1,000 to $2,000 to move it to the landfill.

Otherwise, mobile homes can be excellent alternatives for those looking to live luxuriously while on a budget. A buyer with a $300,000 budget can purchase a lavish manufactured home equipped with upgrades like a soaking tub and granite countertops or extra square footage. Additionally, if you choose to settle in a different location or buy land elsewhere, it’s possible to relocate your home.

Fun fact: There’s no major difference between manufactured and mobile homes, but people are often stumped as to why these identical properties are classified as manufactured and other as mobile. The only factor that separates them is that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development deemed mobile homes to be any home built prior to June 15, 1976 and manufactured homes are those built after June 15, 1976.

Pre-Constructed Homes 

Just as homebuyers are confused by the difference between manufactured and mobile homes, the same can be said of modular and manufactured homes. According to The Balance, modular homes are built in sections at a factory, then transported to the building site where they’re joined together by local contractors on a permanent foundation. Manufactured homes are built entirely in a factory. They’re also constructed on a non-removable steel chassis and transported to the building site on their own wheels.

Manufactured homes can be tough to re-finance, considering they’re not always built on a permanent foundation. While manufacturing homes sometimes decrease in value, well-made modular homes can increase in value over time much like a site-built home. They’re also said to have the same longevity as their site-built counterparts.

Modular homes can be a rewarding investment. They usually cost 10 to 20 percent less than a stick-built home and take about two months to put together on the building site. However, modular homes are typically not custom built and therefore don’t offer the same variety as stick-built homes. With pre-constructed homes, it’s important to note that you don’t always have to do everything from the ground up. You can add to existing structures, including garages and barn apartments, to accommodate more people or just add space.

 

 

Summer is rapidly approaching, which means it’s time to break out those dusty shorts you stuffed in the back of your dresser drawers and start planning out your sun-filled camping excursions to some of America’s most beautiful parks. However, not everyone is a fan of summer camping. For those who’d rather brave crisper conditions to skip the crowds, as well as those who prefer summer camping, this guide will hopefully provide much-needed insight on what you’ll need to know before you head out on the road.

Summer Camping Tips

According to the National Park Service, summertime is the most popular season to go camping. With its warm weather and picturesque hiking, it’s not hard to see why tons of people would want to spend their time in the great outdoors. With that being said, it’s a smart idea to reserve your site well in advance, especially if you’re planning on visiting popular national parks like Yellowstone and Zion.

Book Your Trip in Advance

In fact, recreation.gov states on their site that you can make reservations six months in advance for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. Even if you don’t have all the details of your camping trip laid out, you might want to go ahead and book your site as soon as possible to avoid any potential conflicts. You can do so by visiting your state’s parks and recreation page for more information.

Dehydration

Another important aspect to consider is what else heat brings aside from crowds – dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and mosquitoes. While it’s always a good rule of thumb to bring plenty of water when camping, it’s generally recommended to drink 2 liters of water a day, especially in very hot climates. You might want to consider bringing a collapsible water jug, as it takes up less space. If you’re looking for something more durable, a hard-sided jug would be your best bet. This way, you can better prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat rash and heat exhaustion.

Heat Exhaustion

Kids are typically more susceptible to heat exhaustion. If you do happen to be traveling with kids, be sure to bring extra water to keep them cool and well-hydrated.

Mosquitoes

As far as mosquitoes go, Consumer Reports recently released its list of top-performing insect repellents for 2019. Click here to view the top five repellents, as advertised on Today. For more helpful summer camping tips, be sure to visit Backpacker.com for a comprehensive list of summertime must-knows for any dedicated camper.

ATV & Boat Equipment

Additionally, many campers ride on ATVs or boats while camping, especially in the summer months. This equipment should be properly maintained year around to protect it from the elements, so they’re best kept in the garage while not in use.

Recommended Summer Gear:

• Insect Repellant
• Sunscreen
• 2+ Liters of Water
• Emergency First Aid Kit
• Cell phone and back-up charger
• Air-tight food containers
• Personal fans, freezer packs, and frozen water bottles
• Battery-powered fan
• Light-weighted clothing

Fall Camping Tips

Fall is arguably one of the best times to go camping for outdoor enthusiasts. Fewer families will be frequenting the camp sites with school back in session, meaning you can enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage without the added frustration of cramped campgrounds. There’s also the possibility of state parks and national forests offering reduced entrance fees after Labor Day. While these are great reasons to go camping in fall, the season also comes with a few downsides.

Fluctuating weather conditions, shorter daylight hours, and mating wildlife are important to take notice of prior to your fall camping trip.

Moody Weather

As the summer season fades away, so does the warm weather. It’s generally recommended to always check the weather forecasts of your specific park before packing, considering it could be 20°F in the morning and 70°F by afternoon in certain places. To be extra prepared for rising and falling temperatures, you should bring a mix of clothing like thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and wind and water-resistant garments. It’s also advised to bring a cold-weather sleeping bag that protects against lower temperatures and sleeping pads for heat retention. You might think about purchasing a three-season tent, especially one with a full rain fly to keep moisture out. 

Shorter Daylight Hours

With daylight savings in full swing, be sure to allow yourself extra time to arrive at the campsite before dark. You should bring a headlamp to ensure you can still perform necessary tasks while navigating your campsite at night.

Wildlife

Since fall is also prime season for wildlife mating, it’s best to leave plenty of space between yourself and animals. Some species can be more aggressive than others as winter approaches, so if you do happen to find yourself wanting a picture of them, Wildnerness.org recommends using a zoom lens as opposed to attempting to get a close-up shot.

Recommended Fall Gear:

• Headlamp
• Cold-weather sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad
• Three-season tent
• Water and wind-resistant jacket
• Plenty of layers
• Mittens or gloves
• Flashlight
• Waterproof matches
• Emergency first aid supplies
• Compass or GPS

Winter Camping Tips

Not everyone is brave enough to camp in frigid climates. For those who are, cold-weather camping gives adventure seekers the opportunity to experience utter solitude in an expansive snowscape, in addition to the added gift of not being bitten to death by bugs. While planning for winter camping can seem daunting, it’s easier to stay comfortable than you may think, according to EcoWatch.

Layer Up

The trick is to layer up! You’ll want to start with a quick-drying base layer like nylon and polyester. Cotton should always be avoided, considering it absorbs moisture and can lose insulating qualities that help with thermoregulation. Next, you’ll want to add a mid-layer, such a lightweight fleece or down jacket. If weather conditions are optimal, this can also count as your outer layer. Finally, the outer layer should be a waterproof shell or insulated puffy jacket that protects you from harsh wind and precipitation. For full body clothing recommendations, check out Appalachian Mountain Club’s full guide on what to wear for winter camping.

Sleep Gear

Just as we discussed the types of sleeping equipment you’ll need for fall, it’s ideal to double up on sleeping bags and pads for winter. You’ll also want to bring a four-season tent, as it’s designed to withstand strong winds and snow accumulation.

Caloric Intake

You’re typically burning about 4,000 – 5,000 calories on a normal winter day. With this in mind, plan to bring plenty of snacks and solid meals to counteract the amount of calories you’ll be burning so you can stay nourished and warm. Increasing your caloric intake can also help to compensate for homeostasis in colder regions. Nols, a nonprofit wilderness school, recommends packing dried items like pasta or freezing burritos ahead of time as great options for winter food items.

Water Resources

Another important tip to remember is that some parks shut off their water during the winter, so you need to be prepared for any inconveniences you might experience. Talk to the ranger at your individual park or campground to help plan your excursion.

Alternatives

If you’re not up for camping but still enjoy the outdoors, having your own cabin is a great way to stay out of the cold while experiencing all the benefits of winter.

Recommended Winter Gear:

• Two sleeping bags
• Two sleeping pads
• Four-season tent
• Cowboy coffee
• Lightweight fleece or down jacket
• Waterproof shell
• Socks, gloves, and a technical cold-weather hat
• High-calorie snacks and meals
• Stainless steel water bottle

Spring Camping Tips

While spring is the ever-anticipated precursor to summer, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily safe to skimp on the gear and head straight for the mountains. Springtime weather is notorious for being unpredictable, with sunny skies one day and storms the next. These storms can often bring rain and even substantial snow in northern regions so it’s best to prepare for either depending on your camp site. If you’re planning to take a trip closer to the beginning of spring season, you should check your campground to make sure you have full access to sites and facilities. Some sites have limited facilities so it’s always best to plan ahead in that regard. On the other hand, if you’re hoping to camp near the end of spring season, you might want to book your site in advance since spaces fill up closer to summertime.

Sleep Gear

For sleeping preparations, be sure to pack a cold-weather sleeping bag and sleeping pad in case of 20- to 40-degree weather.

Clothing

While you should pack light, it’s important to bring enough warm, water-resistant clothing. Waterproof shoes and boots are recommended, even if it doesn’t end up raining.

Hypothermia

One little known fact is that hypothermia is often more of an issue in spring than it is in winter. If you’re wearing moisture-absorbing material in wet conditions, you can find yourself easily susceptible to exposure. To protect against hypothermia, pack water-resistant layered clothing and wool socks that dry quickly. It’s advised to check your gear before heading out to ensure there are no holes or tears.

Recommended Spring Gear:

• Water-resistant clothing
• All-weather tent
• Sleeping bag and pad
• Waterproof shoes and boots
• Wool socks
• Plenty of food
• Sunscreen

This is by no means a comprehensive list of everything you should pack and be aware of prior to leaving for your trip. Be sure to visit your campground or park site in advance to ensure you have all the information needed for an enjoyable, well-planned time. You can also visit Backpacker and GearJunkie for more helpful camping tips.

Happy camping!

The way Americans view their living spaces has been upended by the recent explosion of the shared economy. This trend–exacerbated by the fact that nearly 30% of American adults ages 18-34 stay with their parents–has given rise to an entirely new definition of a roommate. Formerly dormant bedrooms and living spaces can be transformed into lucrative endeavors, for those bold enough to forego privacy for profit. New, hybrid buildings are constructed every day to reflect patterns of flexible, small-scale living.

Click here to watch our Apartment Barns Reel on our YouTube page!

Thankfully, the team at DC Structures has evolved in lock-step alongside these recent developments, with the growth of our apartment barn kit product line. While the idea of a bespoke living space above a garage was once an upper-class luxury, we here in the Pacific Northwest have designed and built these gorgeous and affordable structures nationwide for over 15 years. Chances are, we have a project in your neck of the woods. Check out our gallery to see what we can create for you and your family.

If you were considering a new garage or mixed-use building for storage, take advantage of our trusted team of project specialists and designers and consider an apartment barn for your property with living space above for extra income or the occasional visitor. You could even be so generous as to host a lingering son or daughter, or use it yourself to finally carve out that special space for your hobby or workshop.

At DC Structures, we won’t just send you your materials package and head for the garage door – we are partners for the duration of your project long after completion. We know that by using our sturdy post-and-beam style of construction, combined with a durable mix of cedar and Douglas fir materials, your garage with living quarters kit will be built to last.

Let us help you create a heavy-timber style apartment garage built for the 21^st century. We’ll share the expertise; how you use your structure is up to you. From shared living space designs for paying guests, to stunning wraparound decks and exterior staircases that overlook your property, DC has the versatility and experience to handle the most ambitious of projects.

For a simple overview of our design and procurement process, visit our process page.

The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon draws thousands of visitors a year from all around the world. Shops, art galleries, and music venues now occupy what was once home to the two largest sawmills in the world.

The Shevlin-Hixon Lumber Company established a mill in 1916 on the Deschutes River’s west bank, with another mill built by the Books-Scanlon Lumber Company on its east bank shortly after.

This mill confederate dominated Bend’s economy for 78 years. At one point, the companies were two of the largest pine sawmills in the world, operating around the clock with more than 2,000 workers producing 500 million board feet of lumber a year. 

Bend’s population leaped from 536 in 1910 to 5,414 in 1920. By 1930 the city’s population was 8,821. Twenty years of heavy logging created massive deficits in the surrounding forests. Up to 200,000 acres were cut down indiscriminately. The Bend Chamber of Commerce addressed this issue with the mills, but these warnings fell on deaf ears, eventually leading to official closures in 1983.

Balanced harvesting practices have drastically altered timber framing. Deforestation nearly destroyed the concept. Old growth in Northwestern coniferous forests are iconic natural attractions. Enjoying the great outdoors is something every builder, designer and sales associate values here at DC Builders. You don’t need to be from the Northwest to understand this. That’s why we provide kits that emulate these ideals, along with sustainable practices.  

The Deschutes cabin was named for the very river which the Old Mill District sits on. It emblematically represents the balance between progress and sustainability because respect is an inherent virtue above all else. The 776 sq. ft. floor plan gives you an opportunity to haul more manageable pre-engineered components anywhere a 4×4 can go.

 

The Stillwater is a small barn home kit that’s based on a custom structure we designed for satisfied clients in Oklahoma. DC’s designers created a typical modern-style small barn home kit configuration with a lofted bedroom hovering gracefully above a spacious open living area. A straightforward floor plan like this, requires very little thought as you move through its design and building phase.

A sturdy post and beam sub-floor complements a parallel chord roof truss, creating a dynamic open living space. The window wall in this small barn home kit brings generous amounts of light, where every square inch is basked liberally. Double-pane windows provided by Andersen cancel unwanted noise, without compromising insulation.

The vaulted ceiling stands at an impressive 25 ft. high, commanding a triumphant presence on any property, no matter how small the structure. This modern small barn house kit’s lofted bedroom occupies the space above in perfect volume. You won’t find a cozier night away from the hustle and bustle.

This kit also features two dozen high-quality doors. The combination of cedar and Douglas fir is a prime coalescence between excellent hand craftsmanship and intuitive design. You won’t find a more approachable barn home kit like the Stillwater. However, we won’t be bashful to say you should give it a try!

In fact, this makes transporting the pre-engineered materials package a breeze, thanks to the Stillwater’s minimalist floor plan. No other barn home kit in the DC arsenal offers a more seamless blend between convenience and durability.

Looking have a kit built ASAP? Check out these simplified living plans that offer an array of big ideas for small living.

The 2008 financial crash necessitated unsettling change amongst many businesses across the country. When we came up with DC Structures, we wanted to accentuate an approachable and comprehensive process inherently featured in post-and-beam kits, without sacrificing aesthetics and high quality.  

The process most kit companies put people through can be a nightmare. Most will simply drop off your pre-engineered components without so much as a follow-up email. Every step in the DC process has been carefully and methodically thought out to avoid any inconsistencies.

One key tool provided by our team are 3D isometric design instructions. These are unique in that many companies don’t provide them to their clients because it’s viewed as an unnecessary feature.

Too often builders assume clients cannot grasp the construction process behind their own structure. We think this is disingenuous. Everyone should have the material needed to build their own structure—even if it’s just a gesture.

What’s novel about these instructions are their accessibility, made specifically to be interpreted by anyone. Each page incorporates detailed illustrations surrounded by precise measurements, access points for joinery and scheduling for parts.

Everything from the knife plates down to nail placement, are accentuated in effortless detail, and organized chronologically like any other technical manual. Offering 3D isometric instructions provides even the most amateur of builders a pathway to success.

 

Legacies are built from the traditions left behind by those who are led by a desire for something better. This is what our designers wanted to capture in our largest wedding barn kit. The Legacy fuses some of the best wedding barn projects we’ve been involved with. Every feature has been carefully chosen to create an ideal place not just for weddings, but for any event.

A 12’ x 40’ shed roof detailed using western red cedar fascia adds sophistication and class, resting among a string of custom chandeliers. Guests and families are taken in by a covered entryway, supported by a beautiful, handcrafted heavy timber truss. Two cupolas sit atop a traditional American monitor barn, basking natural lighting into the main event space.

The Legacy’s backbone is a post-and-beam monitor barn, reinforced by Douglas fir heavy timber posts. This floor plan includes both bride’s and groom’s quarters, a catering kitchen, an office, and a grand hall—everything you need to launch your wedding and business events. 

Ready to explore your wedding and event venue options? Request a free digital catalog today!

The Oakridge is our most popular apartment barn kit. Named after a sleepy country town located between Central Oregon and the Willamette Valley, this kit’s function is as dynamic as it is humble. The Oakridge building kit has gone through many different renditions, with the same durable post-and-beam frame, that are wonderful composites of our clients’ imaginations. What makes this kit popular beyond its five available sizes is the synergy between the main level’s utility and the loft’s open-concept livability.

Below are three excellent examples of the Oakridge that span a variety of uses and themes.

This Oakridge 60’ garage with living quarters in Bend, Oregon has a 48’ x 60’ frame nestled among the arid desert sage of Central Oregon. Above the multi-use, drive-through RV garage, is a lavish two-bedroom, two-bathroom home with a huge open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area. Outside, 600 sq. ft. of partially-covered deck flows into and around the master suite and main living area. The deck and the garage doors are the two most distinguished alternative features on this rendition of the Oakridge 60.’

The 60-foot version of the Oakridge isn’t the only size option for this kit. This quiet piece of property in Cornelius, Oregon has a barn with living quarters based on the Oakridge 36’. Unlike the Bend configuration, this Oakridge’s main level boasts two horse stalls, two stalls for the dogs, and a tack room. Two shed dormers were kept intact for additional space. On the second floor sits 1,080 sq. ft. of living space, replete with guest room, full bathroom, office, living room, and kitchen. Nantucket dormers supported by handcrafted timber trusses hang over the residence as a testament to our craftsmanship.

The smallest, more scalable option, is our Oakridge 24’. These clients in Damascus, Oregon did an amazing job showing us what you can do with 1,214 sq. ft. of floor plan. We worked closely with them to create this perfect getaway, a party barn fit for both work and play. The breezeway on the main level sits between two sliding barn doors, making this an ideal spot for summer parties and events.

These variations are just a sample of how flexible we can be. More importantly, it further demonstrates why we give our clients so much autonomy when it comes to drafting their designs. The designers will be yours from the beginning, because a kit shouldn’t limit you; options and upgrades are not an issue. Have your pick of siding, dormers, stairs, stalls, whatever you desire.

Ready to get serious about your own building project? Request a free quote today.

Heavy timber architecture done right can make any structure look like an old German fairy tale. There is something honest about an exposed joinery, and the smell of freshly shaved cedar or fir. But sometimes there are limits; times in which elegance must intersect with a designer’s pragmatism.

Shed dormers are used fairly indiscriminately throughout our barn home kits. They help facilitate additional space in a building’s second story. Oftentimes they get a bad reputation for being ugly afterthoughts; band-aids for last minute attempts at fixing lost space. This is definitely not the case with us.

What makes a structure inelegant doesn’t come down to specific features. Every building’s elemental variable should feel intentional. A lazily-placed shed dormer can end up as an eyesore. Done correctly, however, it can be a beautiful confluence of practicality and beauty.

Shed Dormers and Gable Dormers

Shed dormers or “dustpan dormers” are characterized by their single-sloping roofs. A proper dormer should provide an average amount of headroom and space for windows. Keeping the dormer proportional in relation to the rest of the roof is the key to maintaining a more elegant look.

There are many different types of dormers included in our barn and barn home kits, although these usually incorporate one of two styles. The first, and most common, are gable dormers. These are smaller, more compartmentalized extrusions that reallocate water away from second-story windows. Usually they’re placed in rows of three, four, or even five, rather than as one solid mass.

The main type of shed dormer you see included in our kits is what’s called a Nantucket dormer. Multiple gables in one solid sub-structure conjures much more space than gable dormers. Hybridizing these two elements looks and functions better than the typical fully-supported shed dormer.

Of course, there’s no denying the level of space offered by a shed dormer. We use them repeatedly in some of our more popular kits. Check out our new Pineridge, a slightly different variation of our Oakridge kit. Like the Oakridge, each size option includes two shed dormers. These play important roles in establishing and maintaining enough space in the upstairs living quarters among each variation—especially the Pineridge 24’, a no-nonsense two-story post and beam building design aimed at maximizing efficiency.

Ready to take the first step toward building your dream barn home? Request a free quote to get started today.

Now more than ever, more people are moving from both rural and urban areas—a trend that is slowly redefining urban growth boundaries everywhere. The allure of city living has dwindled over the past five years in exchange for a life in the suburbs. Similarly, those in rural areas who are financially able are moving closer in, as well. For example, economic analyst Jared Kolko discovered a 30 percent increase of college educated populations in nonmetropolitan counties, all around the Pacific Northwest and Idaho. These two opposing trends will inevitably cause a time for flux in urban growth boundaries.

Living outside an urban growth boundary comes with its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. An urban growth boundary is usually decided by a city or metropolitan area. Depending on where these municipalities draw the line can cause serious comparative disparities in land value. Farmland can be valued at 10 times less than similar land merely feet away. It’s important to know where these boundaries are, and what policy trends are occurring.  

You can either save or lose money depending on your intentions. The addition of new infrastructure on your property will increase its value no matter what. It’s a much better route than renovating an old pre-existing structure. Click here for more information about the pros and cons of new construction versus renovation.

Check an updated version of your closest city’s urban growth plan, and find out where your prospective land is in relation to it. Studying policy trends in the past to see how you could be affected later, can help gauge how future decisions on increasing the boundary will be made. Being conscious of these factors can make or break a property’s market value.

Seclusion has been a key attraction for rural living, the price one might pay if land falls too close to an urban growth boundary. Cities can retroactively justify expanding infrastructure near or around your property if it was set aside into a rural reserve. This annexed land around your home can be used for any kind of development. So be sure you are staying privy to the projects being proposed in these areas before buying property as well.

Not many cities in the U.S. adopt urban growth boundary policies. Those that do are typically places where the lines between urban and rural blur. Examples of these places can be found in Portland, Oregon; Boulder, Colorado; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Seattle, Washington. DC Structures knows firsthand the headaches of city planning, and the amount of government regulation that accompanies it. Staying on top of recent trends in rural-urban migration and city planning can make a huge difference when assessing land for your structure.

Ready to take the first step toward building your dream structure on your dream property? Request a free quote to get started today.