Building Memories (BM) uses personal experiences and relates them to topics of importance to building.
This BM explores the importance of boutique projects of all scales.
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A few years ago, I was lucky enough to learn that I would be a grandpa, which over time evolved into me being called “Gramps” by my oldest granddaughter! I began to think about what would be fun to have at the house that future grandkids would enjoy. Thus began the smallest boutique design-construction project I had ever executed.
At the back of our property, we had a small storage shed which we had used for storing equipment and materials for over 30 years. It became the basis of design for a playhouse concept. So, in the summer of 2023, I sketched some concepts and a few details and started to build. The shed was significantly demolished, all sheathing was removed along with approximately 50% of the original stud frame. The plan remained the same ~ 5’-0 x 5’-0” but the height of the walls and roof were raised to allow most adults to stand. The original goal was to build the playhouse on evenings and weekends in approximately one month with a budget of ~ $500-$750. Like almost all boutique projects, this project was late (almost 3 months) and over budget (~$2,500).
Over the past 1 ½ years my one grandchild has turned into three grandchildren. To date the Playhouse has been a success with all of them and the concept is slowly growing. The house has now grown into Grampsland (pronounced the same as Graceland). A portion of our backyard became dedicated for a growing number of grandkid activities, with more scheduled to come onboard in years to come. So far Grampsland has the following areas under development:
- The House: the playhouse which was completed in the fall of 2023
- The Back: the open area behind the playhouse that will have a small tree platform and climbing rope added in 2025.
- The Woods: 5 trees that surround the playhouse
- The Water Park: Currently, a small kids pool and sprinkler
- The Innovation Center: A renovated garage that has served as my nice weather home office since 2015.
- The Farm: A raised garden bed which is currently filled with tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers….
This project is certainly not large, complex or societally significant. But putting it together has brought a lot of joy to this Gramps and going forward it will be filled with grandkids having fun and sharing their youthful excitement, energy and joy. All in all, it is one of my most successful projects to date.
Photo 2-Front Elevation Details
Photo 4- South Elevation in Process