Man converted storage silo into a beautiful 2-bedroom home — see inside

 

 Inside the Silo Conversion That’s Captivating the Internet

Imagine driving down a quiet rural highway and stumbling upon something truly unexpected — not a traditional farmhouse or a modern prefab cabin… but a silo converted into a stunning, fully livable two‑bedroom home. This isn’t a sci‑fi concept; it’s real. Tucked away in the peaceful countryside of West Chase County, Kansas, the Owl’s Nest Silo House is redefining what it means to live sustainably, creatively, and beautifully. 

This blog takes you on a step‑by‑step tour — from the spark of an idea to breathtaking interior details — as well as the challenges, philosophies, and surprising joys of transforming a forgotten agricultural structure into a cozy, memorable home.

A Vision Born in the Heartland

The story begins with Gerald Wiens, a visionary homeowner who already had success in short‑term rentals. In 2019, Gerald built a charming log cabin on his rural Kansas property with the modest intention of hosting guests on platforms like Airbnb a few weekends each month. Unexpectedly, his cabin — affectionately known as the Paw Print Cabin — became wildly popular, booked for more than 180 nights during the pandemic.  out for creative opportunities, Gerald noticed an unused grain silo standing on his property. Still solid and structurally sound, this tall, cylindrical relic of agricultural life sparked a bold idea in his mind: Could this silo become something more than just a storage container? 

Thus began the journey that would ultimately transform this rusty agricultural tower into a one‑of‑a‑kind home with the unique charm of rural Kansas and the luxuries of modern design. 

Embracing the Unconventional: Why a Silo?

At first glance, a grain silo doesn’t seem like an obvious choice for a home. It’s circular, tall, narrow, and — from an architectural standpoint — wildly unconventional. But Gerald didn’t see limitations; he saw potential. 

Why this structure worked

• Sturdy Construction: Built to hold tons of grain, the silo was structurally strong and weather‑resistant. 

• Vertical Space: At about 45 feet tall and spanning four stories, the silo offered opportunities to stack living spaces in a way that traditional homes don’t. Unique Aesthetic: The round design meant Gerald could create something visually striking and memorable — a home that stands out in a way few cabins or cottages ever could. 

The challenges were real. Designing within a circular footprint requires rethinking essentially every interior detail, from floor plans to stair placement and even furnishings. But rather than shy away from these challenges, Gerald embraced them as creative opportunities. 

The Renovation Process: A Labor of Love

Turning a grain silo into a home wasn’t as simple as popping in a few windows and calling it a day. Gerald tackled this project largely on his own — drawing sketches by hand, experimenting with layouts, and dedicating countless hours to thoughtful problem‑solving. 

Here’s how the project unfolded:

1. Clearing and Insulation

Before anything else, the silo’s interior had to be cleared and prepared. Like many agricultural structures, it was designed for storage, not living, so the first major steps were insulation and environmental controls to make it comfortable year‑round.

2. Designing Around the Curve

Unlike square rooms in a typical home, the silo’s circular walls changed how each room was planned. Standard furniture and fixtures wouldn’t work — custom designs were often required. But this gave Gerald the freedom to make each space truly unique and intentional. 

3. Creating Vertical Flow

A custom spiral staircase became the spine of the home, connecting all four levels. It not only provided functional access but became a beautiful architectural statement in its own right. 

Step Inside: Living Spaces That Defy Expectation

Now that the silo has been fully transformed, stepping inside feels like entering a storytelling space — familiar yet entirely unexpected.

Ground Floor: A Circular Living Room

The first thing visitors notice is the circular living room. Unlike rectilinear rooms in most homes, this space wraps around you, creating an intimate, cocoon‑like feel. Cozy Seating: Soft leather chairs invite conversation or quiet reflection

• Modern Comforts: A flat‑screen TV mounted above a stone‑framed gas fireplace adds warmth and entertainment. Smart Design: A half‑bath is cleverly tucked beneath the spiral staircase without interrupting the visual flow of the room.

This space blends rustic charm with modern amenities, making it feel welcoming and refined at the same time. 

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Second Floor: Guest Bedroom with a Twist

Climbing up the spiral staircase leads you to the second floor — a cozy bedroom designed for up to three guests. Instead of a typical layout, Gerald chose a custom bunk configuration that maximizes comfort and space:

• Full‑Size Bed Below

• Twin Bed Above

This creative sleeping setup makes efficient use of limited square footage without compromising comfort.

Third Floor: A Spa‑Like Bathroom

One of the most joyful surprises in this structure is the third‑floor bathroom. Rather than squeezing in a tiny washroom, Gerald dedicated an entire level to a bathroom that rivals those in much larger homes.

• Luxurious Shower: A generously sized shower beckons with a spa‑like sensibility.  

• Thoughtful Layout: Serving both the second‑floor bedroom and the master above, this bathroom reflects smart, space‑wise design. 

Fourth Floor: The Master Retreat

The jewel of the Owl’s Nest Silo House is undoubtedly the master bedroom perched atop the structure. Reached by climbing around 45 steps, this space feels like a private sanctuary above the world.

• 16‑Foot Ceiling: The lofty height creates a sense of openness rarely found in cylindrical spaces. King‑Size Comfort: A luxurious bed anchors the room, framed by elegant finishes and natural light. Views for Days: From this height, you’re surrounded by rolling fields and the Kansas sky — a humbling, peaceful experience. 

Challenges and Triumphs

Converting a silo poses challenges few conventional homebuilders ever face:

• Structural Geometry: Circular spaces require purpose‑built furniture and careful planning.  

• Insulation and Comfort: Agriculture silos aren’t designed for habitation; managing temperature and airflow takes ingenuity. 

• Vertical Living: Four stories may be novel, but they require practical solutions for everyday life — especially for older guests or mobility‑limited visitors. 

Despite these challenges, the project stands as a testament to human creativity and determination. As Gerald himself joked, if he had to put a dollar figure on all the hours spent, most people wouldn’t believe it — and yet he says it was worth every second. 

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A Place That’s More Than a House

Today, the Owl’s Nest Silo House isn’t just a creative renovation — it’s a destination. Shortly after its completion, it opened for bookings, joining Gerald’s existing log cabin in welcoming travelers from near and far who want to experience something unforgettable. 

This home is more than shelter; it’s a narrative — of history, ingenuity, place, and personality. It’s proof that with imagination and dedication, buildings of the past can become the homes of the future. 

Silo Homes Around the World: A Growing Trend

Gerald’s silo home isn’t an isolated idea. Around the world, architects and creative builders are transforming agricultural structures into beautiful living spaces — from micro homes in the Netherlands to compact residences in urban settings. 

These conversions share a central philosophy: reuse, reimagine, and reinvent. Rather than demolishing old buildings, clever designers see opportunity — turning industrial relics into meaningful, sustainable homes that honor their history while serving modern needs.