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2017 Hobby Garage of the Year – 2nd Place

Building use, importance & newsworthiness: The owners were after a unique cabin for their family and friends to enjoy long weekends. This spectacular hobby shop includes a two-car garage, large great room with a stone fireplace, master bedroom and master bath, as well as a 3/4 bath/laundry/utility room. The second story has a loft family room, two bedrooms for guests, as well as a full bathroom. The owners decorated in a hunting theme to showcase their trophies from years of successful hunts. A wrap-around porch was also designed for entertaining and includes a screened-in area just off of the great room.

Iowa Post Frame Builder Illinois Post Frame Builder GB#4745 John and Leslie-min
Iowa Post Frame Builder Illinois Post Frame Builder GB#4745 John and Leslie -21-min

Unique features: The large fireplace was designed with diamond and triangle upper windows to allow an ample amount of natural light into the great room and loft area. The stones used for the fireplace were found throughout the family farm. Reclaimed barn board and weathered tin add a rustic look to the open staircase. The bathroom on the main level has a keg urinal, which has been a talking point for many. The exterior design has second story dormers to add sunlight to the upstairs family loft and bedrooms. Cupulas were also added to keep with the barn theme.

Post-frame advantage: The post-frame advantage gave the owners quickness in building time and ease with low maintenance. A shop and living area with a large clear span was also a main reason for choosing post frame.