Cozy Prefab Cabin in Grand Lake, CO

26×36 Glacier Cabin

A Family Legacy

Nestled in the Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, the Lemmer family once had a cabin that stood as a testament to eight decades of family memories. Originally built in 1940, this cabin was a haven for family gatherings and a retreat from the bustling world.

But in 2020 – a year marked by profound change for our world – that cabin was engulfed by a devastating Grand Lake fire, creating another huge loss for the Lemmer family. 

Instead of remaining defeated, Jim Lemmer and his family made the decision to rebuild their cabin with the dream of continued memories as a multi-generational family. 

Cabin Design 

In designing this new cabin, Jim wanted to ensure that there was enough space for his four siblings, nieces, nephews, five kids, and young grandchildren. 

We’ll go up to the cabin with adults, five kids and five dogs…and it’ll be a happy mayhem.

The original cabin stood at roughly 1,000 square feet. By Jim’s request, the team at Zook Cabins added another floor, creating an additional 600 square feet for extra. The new mudroom is one of Jim’s favorites, enabling the whole family to enjoy winter or summer sports seamlessly while keeping coats and shoes contained. 

Jim can’t contest that grandchildren are a delight. But with a passel of kids, sometimes the noise and energy levels become intense. The TV/playroom enables all of the grandchildren to play, imagine, and enjoy the indoors while the adults can chat in peace (and reduce the mayhem). Additionally, this extra floor gives the Lemmer family more sleeping space. 

The Lemmer cabin has the capacity to comfortably host twelve family members at a time. From June to September, most of the Lemmer family finds relaxation and fun through the Colorado River which flows right in front of their cabin. 

A Hidden Haven 

While the rest of the family vacations during the summer, Jim and his wife make the cabin their winter home. Surrounded by the snowy mountains of Colorado, they are at peace with nature. As lovers of cross country skiing and snowshoeing, the cabin gives them close proximity to some of their favorite hobbies. 

We’re in a national park and nobody goes there in the winter. So it’s like having the whole park to ourselves.

Unlikely Admirers

Jim explained that he originally thought the Parks Department would find issues with the cabin due to its location in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Would they think that the cabin retracted from the natural landscape? What if they complained? 

Thankfully, his worries were unfounded! About half a dozen Parks Department employees have commented on the beauty of the Lemmer Cabin and expressed their respect for the Lemmer family cabin. 

Additionally, many tourists love to chat and make conversation with the Lemmer family; their cabin creates an inviting atmosphere for expanding a community feel. And then in winter (as tourism slows down), the cabin becomes a quiet oasis from the constant chatter. 

Within The Budget Parameters 

One of Jim’s biggest concerns with the cabin was his limited budget. But he was able to work with Zook Cabins to create a more cost-efficient cabin for the whole family. Zook cabins completed the first floor and then left the top floor unfinished for Jim to finish and design on his own time, cutting down his costs dramatically.

Cross country skiing is an ideal recreation…when you have a cozy, warm place to return to later. Initially, Jim had no expectations regarding his utility bills, but was pleasantly surprised with the energy efficiency of the cabin. Instead of paying exorbitant energy bills, the windows and insulation keep the cabin warm at a minimal cost, even during -20 degree days.  In the summer – after a day of swimming, grilling, or taking walks – the whole Lemmer family can find a respite from sticky Colorado afternoons and evenings. 

Customer Service Experience

Initially, Jim was a bit hesitant when starting to purchase through Zook Cabins. But he was impressed with the rapid response he got from Allen, his sales representative.

I got an email from Allen…asked him another question and he immediately called me back.”

Pro Advice 

For those considering a cabin, Jim offers some recommendations. It’s imperative to have your budget detailed and costs outlined effectively so you can eliminate financial stress. In choosing local contractors, ensure they are recommendations from a trusted referral. 

Creating a cabin is messy. The cabin crew uses heavy equipment such as bulldozers and forklifts which demolish the exterior around the cabin. Jim recommends adding finishing touches to the landscape.

Budget some money [for landscapers] to come in and smooth out the ground and cover up the mud.

Cabin Satisfaction

Jim and his family expect to spend the upcoming decades in their new cabin, soaking up quality time with their loved ones. 

We absolutely love our new cabin and couldn’t have done it without Zook Cabins.

A Connection Throughout the Generations

If by reading Jim’s story, you had an itch to create a space for your multi-generational family to connect with each other, don’t leave yet. At Zook Cabins, we are thrilled to offer customized cabins that allow you and your family to explore nature and grow deeper connections together.