Shibagau Creek Forest Farmstead
A place to learn, create, recharge and connect with nature.
Tracking the renovations and development of Shibagau Creek Forest Farmstead
With an outhouse composting toilet and shower in the field, it made sense to also set up an outdoor washstand. Here it is sitting on logs next to the end of the house. Water comes from the rain barrel stack, just like the kitchen sink.
The kitchen sink now drains into a bathtub filter and herb garden.
Scott Russel has been back working on the barn. His beautiful new floor from last fall is now complemented by an enclosed meeting room that functions perfectly for workshop sessions. The open centre aisle continues to provide abundant light and air in keeping with the open magnificence of this structure.
With recycled windows and French doors, a comfy couch, table and chairs, we are all set for gatherings.
Over the past 3 years the barn has come back from a sad state of disrepair.
The new floor
This spring we completed construction of a new deck and outdoor kitchen. The 12’x12′ kitchen includes repurposed cabinets someone removed from their cottage purchase, a sink connected to the rain barrels and a roof that provides shelter from sun and rain. The deck extends around the water pump, giving new steps up to the front entrance porch. We worked together over a few months, having begun construction during a February thaw and now we are seeing the improvements as we have guests staying for the workshops.
Breaks in the winter snow are allowing us to begin building a larger deck for the outdoor kitchen. The goal is to have adequate space for counters, food prep and a rain water fed sink for washing-up. A sloping roof extension will provide shade and protection from bad weather. Hopes are to eventually seed the kitchen roof with mosses and grasses.
The fall saw completion of an outdoor shower with a view. Rain water is collected in barrels on the roof of the house, to be warmed (slightly) by the sun and flowing through a hose to the shower stand. Hop vines will be planted to create a green enclosure.
The rooms are getting sorted out and the beds set-up.
This week, with the help of Rob and Steve, we were able to move up the beds and storage trunks. Victoria then dressed the space and it feels wonderful with the new paint and refinished floors.
Work on renovating the loft has been a major task, bringing it back from a derelict state. It’s very satisfying to see it take shape and once more become a useful living space.
This past week has been busy, with long days working on the house and clearing brush. The water systems are coming together.