What to do with an old grain bin? Turn it into a gazebo, of course

Amy and Phil Englin, a couple from Elko New Market, transformed an old grain bin into a spacious and functional gazebo for their family and friends. Amy initially discovered the concept of repurposing grain bins into gazebos during her research for outdoor living spaces that would complement their wooded property. She actively sought out an aged grain bin with natural rust and patina, indicating a preference for character over a new appearance. After an extensive search, including checking Facebook Marketplace and inquiring at local farms, they acquired a suitable grain bin through a neighbor who located it on a farm in Arlington, Minnesota. The construction of the gazebo involved several steps. Phil, leveraging his background in construction, oversaw the site preparation, which included leveling the ground and pouring and stamping a concrete base. Collaborating with a friend, he built a wooden frame with support beams, securing it to the foundation. The grain bin was then reassembled and installed using a crane to position the upper sections. To ensure comfort and usability, custom screen netting was installed around the gazebo to deter mosquitoes. The entire conversion project took approximately three to four weeks to complete. For the interior and exterior aesthetic, Amy focused on unique and personal touches. She sourced an antique wash tub and oil can from Trader's Market flea market in Elko, which were subsequently welded and fitted with a pump to serve as a decorative fountain with floating plants. Furniture for the gazebo, including glider love seats and chairs, along with a propane fire pit table, was purchased from Costco. The interior design was completed with a rug and Edison string lights. Amy also plans to enhance the surrounding area with a perennial garden, an antique bicycle from the 1940s as an ornamental piece, and potentially a windmill to further integrate a rustic farm-life theme. The total cost for the project was approximately $6,500. Construction expenses amounted to $4,000, with concrete and mosquito netting each contributing $1,200 to the budget. The grain bin itself was acquired for a mere $400. Decor items, encompassing furniture and antique pieces, cost around $2,500. The Englin family, including their children Elsie (10), Andrew (8), and Caleb (6), now frequently utilize the 18-foot wide gazebo. Its location at the edge of a wooded area, near a brook, allows them to enjoy the sounds of nature and observe their chicken coop. Amy also uses the space for quiet time and to watch sunrises. The custom mosquito netting proves particularly effective, blocking 70% of the wind, enabling the family to enjoy the outdoor space even on cooler evenings and for entertaining guests. This project highlights creative repurposing, offering a unique and functional outdoor living space on a reasonable budget. The Englin family’s grain bin gazebo serves as a versatile area for both peaceful solitude and social gatherings, demonstrating an innovative approach to home improvement. #GrainBinGazebo #DIYProject #HomeImprovement #OutdoorLiving #Repurposing #CreativeDesign #BudgetFriendly #FamilySpace #MinnesotaHome #GrainBinGazebo #DIYProject #HomeImprovement #OutdoorLiving #Repurposing #CreativeDesign #BudgetFriendly #FamilySpace #MinnesotaHome

38 months ago

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