At SunRay Windows and Doors, we love being part of innovative and unique projects. Recently, we had the pleasure of working on an extraordinary project—transforming grain bins into an 850-square-foot Airbnb called La Cabina, located on a farm just outside of Waldeck, Saskatchewan.
What Is the Origin of La Cabina?
Jerry, the mastermind behind this one-of-a-kind renovation, walked us through his vision and progress:
“I had an idea in October to get one bin, make a man cave, and then the guy who’s selling me the bin says, ‘No, the bin floor in mine isn’t as good as I saw some online.’ He said, ‘You should look at those.’ So I saw these bins and, there’s a row of them. The guy said, you take the first three and I’ll give you a good price.
So it went from 1 to 3 just like snapping my fingers.”
Interior Finishing
As we stepped inside La Cabina, Jerry first took us into the left bin, a bedroom. The interior will be finished with pine walls and ceilings and complimented by SunRay windows that will flood the room with natural light. The centrally located wood stove will heat the entire space, creating a welcoming atmosphere during Saskatchewan’s cold winters.
What helps make the project stand out is the flexibility fiberglass windows offer. Jerry opted for a dark exterior to match the galvanization of the grain bins, while the interior remains bright with neutral white. The large custom windows, provided and installed by SunRay Windows, allow for expansive views and bring in the natural beauty of the surrounding prairie. Jerry consulted other local window companies besides SunRay and concluded that fiberglass windows were the only solution robust enough to handle the tall, one-piece windows Jerry envisioned, offering both durability and a sleek, modern look.
Jerry has incorporated some truly creative design elements into La Cabina. His kitchen, for example, will feature toolboxes from Canadian Tire instead of traditional cabinetry, giving the space a rugged, metal aesthetic that complements the grain bins’ industrial origins.
Exterior Setting and a Greek Orthodox-Inspired Woodshed
The project isn’t just about the interior, though. Jerry is creating an inviting outdoor space with plans for a fire pit, swings, a basketball hoop, and a horseshoe pit. He’s already built a Greek Orthodox-inspired woodshed, using inverted bin sheets for a striking effect.
Durability and Affordability
Two of the reasons Jerry chose to build La Cabina out of grain bins are their durability and affordability. These bins can withstand extreme weather conditions far better than traditional homes, and hail damage is a non-issue. Furthermore, the bins are far more affordable than standard construction materials. Jerry purchased the three bins for just $5,000—a fraction of what a new home might cost.
Once completed, Jerry plans to turn La Cabina into an Airbnb, allowing guests to experience the unique charm of grain bin living on the Saskatchewan prairie. With SunRay’s high-quality windows, La Cabina is both energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring it will stand out for decades.
Stay tuned for the final reveal as Jerry puts the finishing touches on this remarkable home. We’re thrilled to be part of this project and to provide the windows that make La Cabina both functional and beautiful.
If you’re looking for custom windows that fit your unique project, contact us at SunRay Windows and Doors. We’re here to bring your vision to life, no matter how outside the box it may be!