Stevens Point / GSHBA Parade of Homes 2013
During the 1880s, America’s great grain elevators were simply made wooden buildings, often near shipping ports for easy access to transport. Built from 400 year-old locally harvested old-growth timbers, these granaries were instrumental in the successful progress of the United States during the nineteenth century. As history progressed, many grain elevators were lost to fire or were demolished to make way for newer steel structures. Many of these old structures have lain dormant and wasted. But in a new age has come new appreciation. These millions of board feet of lumber that have littered landfills have been rediscovered as the antique treasures that they are—relics from ancient Wisconsin forests that are now vanished.
Due to this, the 2013 Parade Home from Jon Marty’s Custom Carpentry is an essential stop this year on the Parade of Homes. Visit this home and witness how the dismantled grain elevators are relived in the construction throughout the house. Wide board oak flooring, real stone fireplace, and a huge vaulted ceiling in the great room help display the beauty of these once forgotten timbers. After air drying for 125 years, the fibers and detail of this precious wood are clear; the fireplace mantel and railings can be seen as pieces of art. Handmade metal spindles adorn the wood and accent its ornamental patina. The custom-made kitchen cabinets continue the splendor by extending nine feet in height.
Perhaps the most unique aspects of our Parade Homee are presented in the basement. The floor is uniquely designed with custom acid finish and steps down to the theater area. Four inch reclaimed boards trim the large basement rec room and frame the large theater screen. A wet bar also features the old decorative wood. To add a modern flair, surround-sound speakers are concealed throughout the basement and house.
The blend of modern design and the historical building materials will give visitors to this home a unique experience.
Patterson Lake Rd. Almond, WI
