The mission behind The Nook is simple: create new inventory in a growing market, utilize material and space efficiently, and create something that people really want to live or invest in. The lack of quality and lasting construction in the Colorado mountains has been reserved primarily for mountain towns along the I70 corridor, which creates a unique problem. People looking for mountain getaways are faced with finding land, locating a crew to work on it, understanding local permit processes, finding a desirable location, keeping costs down, and the list goes on and on. 

The goal with The Nook was to build something that was unique and marketable, as well as functional. The property isn't like any other property; the location was carefully considered, the materiel makes this thing nearly indestructible, and it is a premium investment for those looking for it. We didn't want to this to be like any other cabin that is at risk to the harsh Colorado elements, we wanted to give people peace of mind knowing that this will be around for decades to come.

It's hard enough to build in the mountains in Colorado, but the process to build a semi modular structure out of alternative materials, makes this process even more difficult. Getting an Engineer and Architect to work on the project was our first task. This process took us almost half a year to accomplish. After this was done, we now needed to buddy up with Park County to get this approved. That process took 12 weeks but got the green light to move forward. We purchased our containers and knew they needed to be worked on locally in Denver prior to being taken to the site.

We did all the cutouts, pre-engineering, steel reinforcement, structural work, container prep, sandblasting and rust proof priming in Lafayette while the site work was being done. This allowed us to cut some construction time down and keep the containers close to the welder. Getting the site work done was an exercise in attrition. Limited workforce, skilled labor and equipment accessibility was a challenge that we did not fully appreciate.

Once we completed this initial step and the containers were ready to be moved,  the logistical challenge to move the 3 containers began. All of this had to happen perfectly. This included multiple parties communicating effectively for a one day shot. Thank god for good walkie talkies. We had to get all three moved on 18 wheelers, arrive safely to the lot, make it up the ruff cut driveway to be placed next to an expensive crane that you had for only one afternoon. Once they were safely at the site, we rushed to get the foundation finished so they could be set. This included setting the lower steel beam on the foundation pockets and then insert steel plates to the foundation wall so the containers could be welded into place permanently.  Imagine, for months the site is void of any structure and in a few stressful yet exciting hours... the entire home is sitting on its foundation. 

We've been building homes for over a decade, but the next step in the process was our first. We now had to weld our home together and make it waterproof. This is the "stitch" in the "set and stitch." Our welders literally lived and camped on the land for weeks to complete this critical step. Nothing could be done until they were done. Once stitched, we were back in our comfort zone. framing, electrical, plumbing and everything else that comes with "normal" construction.

Have you ever wondered why people buy beautiful land and then put their home right by the road? We understand now! Cutting a 500 foot drive up a hill that sits on a granite vain, was just the tip of the iceberg. We had to dynamite twice. Once for the foundation and then almost 300 feet for the driveway. There is a 600 foot trench that is dug for power, multiple culverts inserted, boulders moved and mounds of dirt to manage just to get people to the top of the acreage to begin. This was expensive, tricky and complicated considering we were consciously paying attention to preserving the natural, rustic landscape. But... the view is worth it. 

When it's all complete you are left with a unique, income producing property, that will last for years to come. We wanted it to be something to share with family and friends for generations to come. Timeless construction and thoughtful design will leave people wanting to come back year after year, season after season.