A few years ago, young filmmaker Zack Bolt embarked on a cross-country journey across the United States with a self-built mobile studio. This nomadic workspace was created by transforming a 10-year-old Chevrolet truck into a livable space using BIM architecture techniques, incorporating sustainable and visually appealing recycled wood materials.
Last autumn, Zack decided to conclude his life on the road and planned to settle down in a yurt. After six months of dedication, he and his girlfriend, Nicole Lopez, designed and constructed a home in the suburbs of Portland, Oregon. Their residence offers many impressive natural comforts comparable to those found in conventional houses.
The yurt designed by Zack and Nicole measures just over 30 feet in diameter, covering a total area of 730 square feet. This bright and airy living space is equipped with modern fixtures and appliances, including water and electricity, providing ample room for guests. With the help of friends and family, they built the exterior structure over a weekend.
Inside, the layout centers around a large central unit housing the kitchen and bathroom, while a bedroom loft is arranged above. This circular sleeping area features a planter with 45 plants and a generous skylight that fills the space with natural sunlight throughout the day.
A key aspect of this project is the couple’s commitment to sharing the knowledge they gained throughout the building process. Zack has created a free online guide, doityurtself.com, which offers detailed, step-by-step instructions, along with photos and videos documenting the entire construction journey. The website also hosts the most comprehensive collection of information on American yurt companies available online.
“It’s amazing to adapt and modernize a structure with a history that spans thousands of years,” Zack explains. “This is our effort to build a modern yurt for the 21st century.”
(BIM training)
Project Information
Designers: Zack Bolt and Nicole Lopez
Learn more: doityurtself.com
Photography by Brian Orick
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up