Tucked away in the peaceful countryside of Kansas, not far off scenic Highway 50 near Elmdale, lies a truly remarkable retreat — a converted grain silo that now stands as a stunning two-bedroom home. In the heart of West Chase County, surrounded by rolling soybean fields and a gentle creek, the Owl’s Nest Silo House offers an unforgettable escape from the noise of modern life.
The property is the vision of Gerald Wiens, who first dipped his toes into vacation rentals with a charming log cabin built in 2019. What began as a modest plan — just a few Airbnb stays each month — quickly blossomed into a booming venture, with the Paw Print Cabin booked for over 180 nights during the pandemic alone. Encouraged by this unexpected success, Gerald began to imagine the possibilities for the sturdy, unused grain silo nearby.
The silo, still in excellent condition, sparked Gerald’s imagination. With creativity, hand-drawn sketches, and a determination to make the impossible work, he began transforming the round, vertical structure into a warm and inviting home. The circular design posed unique architectural challenges, but Gerald embraced them with enthusiasm and ingenuity.
The final product is nothing short of spectacular — a four-story architectural marvel that rises 45 feet into the Kansas sky. Stepping inside, visitors are immediately greeted by a cozy circular living room, where soft leather chairs invite quiet moments or heart-to-hearts. A sleek flat-screen TV mounted above a striking stone-framed gas fireplace adds both warmth and entertainment to the space. Nearby, a compact half-bath is tucked neatly beneath the spiraling staircase, offering modern convenience without disrupting the aesthetic.
As you ascend the spiral stairs, the interior unfolds floor by floor, culminating at the fourth-floor master bedroom — a serene retreat perched high above the fields, accessible by 45 carefully crafted steps. The climb may be steep, but the view — and the sense of solitude it provides — makes the effort more than worthwhile.
The Owl’s Nest Silo House isn’t just a clever renovation; it’s a heartfelt labor of love. Gerald poured countless hours into every detail, ensuring this wasn’t just a novelty structure, but a genuinely livable, soul-soothing home. “If you had to pay me for the time I put in, I’m not sure you’d like the number,” he joked. “It’s not typical construction. But it was worth every second.”
Currently, Gerald’s original log cabin is available to rent on Airbnb under “Vacation Rentals Chase County,” and soon, this breathtaking silo home will join it. With its rustic charm, thoughtful design, and storybook setting, the Owl’s Nest Silo House is more than just a vacation rental — it’s a testament to vision, patience, and the quiet beauty of reimagining what home can be.