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Wolf Lodge
Wolf Lodge is a remarkable off-grid cabin built by Carelli LLC, exemplifying self-sufficiency, craftsmanship, and dedication to sustainable living. Located 30 miles from the nearest grocery store and accessible only by hiking a mile through rugged terrain, the cabin operates entirely off-grid, with no access to cell service, power lines, water lines, sewer systems, or roads.
This project showcases innovative solutions tailored to remote living, combining durability with thoughtful design to harmonize with its natural surroundings. Wolf Lodge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and commitment of Carelli LLC, redefining what’s possible in off-grid construction.
Staking the Dream
The project started in 2016 with surveyors marking the four corners of the property.
From Vision to Blueprint
Before clearing the land, I transformed my vision for Wolf Lodge into a detailed design. I then collaborated with a structural engineer who refined my plans, ensuring they met all building codes. The result was a set of professional blueprints, complete with the engineer's wet stamp, ready to guide the construction process.
Clearing the Path for Possibilities
With the survey complete, and plans in hand, the next step was to clear the forested area for Wolf Lodge. Careful clearing made way for construction while respecting the surrounding wilderness.
A Cleared Canvas with a View
The build site for Wolf Lodge, now cleared, reveals breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This pristine setting sets the stage for a truly off-grid retreat.
Building the Pier Foundation
The foundation for Wolf Lodge was constructed using SonoTubes in a traditional pier foundation design. This method provided a sturdy, elevated base to adapt to the rugged terrain while minimizing the impact on the natural surroundings. Carefully poured concrete ensured the stability needed for an off-grid structure, all while maintaining the stunning mountain views that define the lodge's location.
Family Support
My dad made the journey from Ohio to spend a couple of weeks helping with the foundation for Wolf Lodge.
Setting Up the Lumber Mill
With the foundation complete, the next step was assembling the on-site lumber mill to process raw trees into dimensional lumber. This critical tool allowed us to mill the timber needed for construction directly off the property, reducing the need to haul materials up the remote terrain.
The Lumber Mill in Action
With the lumber mill fully assembled, the next step was transforming raw trees from the property into usable dimensional lumber. This process not only provided high-quality materials for Wolf Lodge but also embodied the self-sufficiency at the heart of the project. Watching the mill in action was a rewarding moment, bringing the project closer to reality.
Lumber Ready for Construction
The freshly milled dimensional lumber, processed directly from trees on the property, is now stacked and ready for the construction of Wolf Lodge. Each piece represents the self-reliant spirit of the project, transforming raw materials into building blocks for a sustainable off-grid retreat. This meticulous preparation ensured that the structure would be built with high-quality, locally sourced materials.
The First Timber: A Milestone Moment
Installing the first timber marked a monumental achievement in the construction of Wolf Lodge. This beam, milled directly from trees on the property, was carefully placed into the pier foundation to begin forming the structure’s frame. It was a proud and pivotal moment, symbolizing the transition from preparation to construction on this ambitious off-grid project.
Framing Takes Shape
With the first timbers in place, the framing process for Wolf Lodge began to take shape. Each beam and connection was carefully measured and secured, creating the sturdy skeleton of the structure. This moment captured the growing excitement as the vision for the off-grid retreat came closer to reality.
The Structure Rises
The framing of Wolf Lodge continued to grow, with each beam carefully lifted and secured into place. The structure began to take shape, showcasing the dedication and teamwork involved in this off-grid build. Standing tall against the stunning mountain backdrop, the lodge's design started to reflect the vision that inspired it.
Framing the Roof
Framing the roof of Wolf Lodge. Precision and teamwork were essential as the rafters were carefully positioned to create a solid and functional structure. Each piece of lumber, milled directly from the property, contributed to the self-sustaining vision of the lodge, set against the breathtaking backdrop of rugged mountain peaks.
Framing in Fast-Forward
A time-lapse video captures the framing process of Wolf Lodge, showcasing the transformation of raw timber into a towering off-grid structure. The clip highlights the dedication, precision, and teamwork involved as the framework rapidly takes shape against the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
Framing Nears Completion
With the framing close to completion, Wolf Lodge begins to reveal its full grandeur. Though still without windows, doors, or siding, the scale and design of the structure hint at the majestic retreat it will become. The exposed timber, soaring lines, and sturdy pier foundation reflect the craftsmanship and vision behind this off-grid masterpiece.
Windows and Weatherproofing
With Tyvek installed and the windows securely in place, Wolf Lodge takes a big step toward becoming weatherproof. The sleek, modern windows highlight the structure’s design while framing the breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. These additions mark significant progress in creating a functional and comfortable off-grid retreat, even in the heart of winter.
Installing the Centerpiece: The NanaWall Door
The installation of the NanaWall front door marked a pivotal moment in the construction of Wolf Lodge. This stunning three-panel door, which opens fully, creates a seamless transition between the indoors and the surrounding wilderness. As the centerpiece of the structure, it frames breathtaking mountain views while embodying the spirit of connection with nature.
A Doorway to the Wilderness
With the NanaWall door fully installed and open, the vision of blending indoors and outdoors comes to life. Standing in the doorway, I pause to take in the expansive views of the mountains and forests, a reminder of the connection to nature that inspired the creation of Wolf Lodge. This moment embodies the essence of off-grid living: harmony, simplicity, and awe-inspiring surroundings.
Installing Shou Sugi Ban Siding
The next step was installing the siding, crafted using the traditional Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban. By charring the wood, this method enhances its durability with rot resistance, bug resistance, and fireproofing while giving it a striking, textured appearance. This timeless process added both functionality and beauty to the structure, further connecting Wolf Lodge to natural and sustainable practices.
Nearly Complete: Wolf Lodge Takes Shape
The front of Wolf Lodge glows in the evening light, with the siding job nearing completion. The striking Shou Sugi Ban wood siding contrasts beautifully with the lush wildflowers that surround the cabin. This serene moment showcases the seamless integration of Wolf Lodge into its natural, mountainous environment, hinting at the finished retreat it will soon become.
Nearing Completion: Wolf Lodge Revealed
With just a few siding pieces left to install, the nearly finished Wolf Lodge stands proudly against the winter sky. The Shou Sugi Ban siding and large windows create a striking and modern aesthetic, perfectly complementing the snowy forest surroundings. This moment captures the vision of a completed structure, ready to embrace its role as a serene off-grid retreat.
Wolf Lodge Complete: A Carelli LLC Masterpiece
This iconic image captures the completion of Wolf Lodge, a true testament to the expertise and craftsmanship of Carelli LLC. From designing the structure to milling the timber directly on-site and executing every detail with precision, Carelli LLC brought this off-grid retreat to life. The sleek Shou Sugi Ban siding, expansive windows, and thoughtfully crafted front deck showcase our ability to blend modern design with the rugged beauty of the Colorado wilderness. Wolf Lodge exemplifies Carelli LLC’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in every project.
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