When we were discussing where to go for a vacation, my dad asked if we could consider West Virginia as a possible destination. He had watched the show, Barnwood Builders, which highlighted the charm and rustic beauty of the region, and that show served as the inspiration for our potential trip. I had never seen the show prior to this conversation, but a couple of years ago, I stayed with my parents while they recovered from being in the hospital. During that time, I decided to give it a watch and quickly realized there was a lot to do and how stunning the area was. The episodes featured breathtaking landscapes, cozy cabins, and the warm, welcoming spirit of the local communities. After doing some research, I also discovered that New River Gorge National Park was nestled in the area, offering a range of outdoor activities like hiking, white-water rafting, and rock climbing. It is actually the newest National Park in the system, and its dramatic cliffs and exhilarating rapids make it an adventure seeker’s paradise, which only added to our excitement about the trip.
On the first day of our vacation, we eagerly headed to the Barnwood Living store in White Sulphur Springs, a place my parents had long dreamed of visiting. It was an almost magical experience for them to finally see the store and the iconic bone yard filled with reclaimed materials. I loved watching them live their dream; their faces lit up with excitement as they took in the unique finds that surrounded us. Although we didn’t see Mark Bowe and his talented crew that day, we were fortunate enough to meet Katherine from the show, who was incredibly friendly and kindly helped us get into the store. We spent a delightful time shopping in the store, discovering one-of-a-kind pieces that told stories of their own, and it was heartwarming to see my parents so joyful and inspired by the creativity that filled the space.
Barnwood Village
Located behind the store are three charming cabins that make up Barnwood Village, which you are able to stay in during your visit. These delightful accommodations were featured in the final episode of Season 18, showcasing their unique rustic charm and cozy interiors. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities while retaining its original character, providing the perfect blend of comfort and nostalgia. Whether you are looking for a lovely getaway for the entire family or planning a fun-filled girls’ weekend, these cabins offer an ideal retreat where you can relax, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories together. With plenty of outdoor space to explore and activities nearby, Barnwood Village is the perfect backdrop for your next adventure.
The Bone Yard
We took a drive out to see The Bone Yard of The Barnwood Living, a fascinating site that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship behind reclaimed wood. This is where their dedicated team skillfully works on the wood that they meticulously dismantled from old barns, which each have their own stories to tell. You aren’t able to go into The Bone Yard due to safety and preservation regulations, but we were able to admire the incredible assortment of weathered wood and rustic artifacts through the gates, each piece revealing the beauty of its history and potential for new life. It was an impressive sight that left us eager to learn more about their sustainable practices and the unique transformations they create.
The Schoolhouse Hotel
It was recommended that we stop by to see The Schoolhouse Hotel. They transformed the former White Sulphur Springs Junior High School into a stunning hotel that beautifully blends history with modern comforts. The hotel is 100% ADA accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy what it has to offer. They kindly let us use the bathrooms, which were impeccably clean and well-maintained. The friendly staff approached us and asked if we wanted to see a room and take a little tour, and their enthusiasm was infectious. They were all so welcoming and genuinely eager to share their passion for the hotel. As someone who travels a lot for both leisure and work, I have seen a lot of hotels, but this one truly impressed me. From the moment I stepped in, I noticed that they had thoughtfully considered every detail for their rooms. For instance, most ADA rooms in hotels don’t have lower beds, which can be quite challenging for some guests, but they do here, making it much more accommodating. Each room is uniquely designed with a theme that relates to the school; they proudly showed me the woodshop room. The entire atmosphere was both nostalgic and refreshing, making it a perfect getaway for anyone looking to unwind while appreciating a touch of history.
The old gym has been turned into a ballroom, transforming the once vibrant space filled with the sounds of clattering weights and energetic workouts into an elegant venue adorned with sparkling chandeliers and beautifully draped curtains. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement as guests gather to celebrate milestones, creating new memories in a space that once served a very different purpose.
They paid homage to the past and did a great job decorating the hallways, filling them historical artifacts and photographs that told stories of bygone eras. Each corner featured meticulously chosen decor, from vintage furniture to ornate wall hangings, creating an atmosphere that transported visitors back in time. The warm lighting complemented the intricate details, inviting everyone to pause and reflect on the history encapsulated within those walls.
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