Ep 1. Ohio Valley Hut

Building Off the Grid is a popular television series that showcases the incredible stories of people who leave their urban life behind and build a home deep in the wilderness. The series features some of the most unique and inspiring housing projects that you can imagine, and gives viewers a peek into the challenging and rewarding process of creating a self-sustaining home off the grid. In season 7 episode 1, titled Ohio Valley Hut, we follow the journey of a couple named James and Erin, as they build a tiny cabin in the woods of Ohio.

James and Erin are a young couple who share a passion for nature and sustainable living. They have a dream of building a tiny cabin in the heart of Ohio's wilderness, where they can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and live off the grid. They have a small budget, limited resources and no experience in construction, making their dream seem impossible. But the couple is determined and willing to take on the challenge.

The episode begins with James and Erin searching for the perfect location for their cabin. They want a secluded spot, close to a water source, with access to firewood and plenty of sunlight. After scouting different locations, they finally find a spot in the Ohio Valley that ticks all their boxes. It's a beautiful spot surrounded by trees, with a small creek running nearby. But the terrain is rough, and they need to clear the land before they can start building.

Once they have cleared the land, the couple starts to work on the foundation. They decide to use posts to elevate the cabin above ground, keeping it safe from flooding and moisture. They dig deep holes and pour concrete into them, making sure every post is secured and levelled. Next, they install the floor joists, creating a sturdy base for their cabin.

As they progress, James and Erin encounter many challenges, including unpredictable weather and wildlife. They need to protect their site from heavy wind and rain, while also keeping predators at bay. They build a temporary structure to store their tools and protect their materials, while also installing a fence around the site to keep out bears and other predators.

Once the foundation is complete, the couple starts building the walls. They decide to use natural materials, such as birch bark and cedar, to create a rustic and eco-friendly look. They also decide to add a green roof, covered in native plants that will absorb rainwater and provide insulation during the winter.

As they work, James and Erin face new obstacles, such as sourcing materials and dealing with unexpected setbacks. They also need to learn new skills, such as carpentry and roofing, on the fly, making the process of building their cabin even more challenging.

But despite the hardships, James and Erin remain determined, and their hard work eventually pays off. They finish the cabin, and it looks beautiful. They use reclaimed barn wood to create a cosy interior, complete with a small kitchen, a wood-burning stove and a sleeping loft. They also add solar panels and a rainwater collection system, which will allow them to live off the grid sustainably.

The Ohio Valley Hut is a stunning achievement, and James and Erin couldn't be happier. They have created a home that is uniquely theirs, in a beautiful natural setting, and they can now enjoy the peace and solitude that comes with living in the wilderness. Their story is inspiring, and it shows that with hard work, determination and a little help from friends, building a home off the grid is possible.