Outdoor enthusiast quits job to build cabins in the woods

In Washington State, Patrick Hutchison made a transformative decision years ago when he chose to leave his copywriting job in Seattle for a life dedicated to carpentry in the Cascade Mountains. This step marked the beginning of a journey that saw Hutchison purchase a dilapidated cabin for $7,000 in 2012, pushing him to acquire new skills and venture into building cabins with a focus on both recreation and craftsmanship. He teamed up with friend Bryan Schatz, who sought a similar escape from the conventional nine-to-five work routine. Together, they spent countless weekends learning how to work with tools, developing a newfound passion for creating structures in the wilderness. Over the years, Hutchison and Schatz have undertaken several projects, including a well-equipped cabin built from scratch, which they completed in 2018 after an anticipated budget of $30,000 ballooned to $60,000 due to extensive renovations and delays. They also faced the challenge of sourcing and managing materials, which provided invaluable lessons for future undertakings. Their biggest success arrived with the construction of a refined cabin known as the 'Cyclops', which they began building after purchasing the land for $20,000 and investing an additional $100,000 in materials. Upon completion, the cabin attracted buyers in the market, selling for an impressive $320,000 this year. The journey has allowed Hutchison to thrive on the personal satisfaction of crafting each project, stating that the act of creating structures is more fulfilling than merely owning them. This perspective shaped their approach to each new initiative as they view each cabin project as a stepping stone towards greater aspirations in carpentry and construction. Hutchison expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pivot from desk work to hands-on labor, illustrating a blend of personal fulfillment and financial success. Hutchison now builds intricate garden treehouses for affluent clients in the Pacific Northwest, showcasing his diverse woodworking skills, while Schatz has also expanded his work by crafting furniture. The duo plans to take on a fourth cabin project, reflecting their evolving ambitions in the craft. The decision to leave their previous careers was rooted in a desire for a more satisfying existence, free from the confines of traditional office jobs. Hutchison emphasizes that pursuing passions with dedication can eventually lead to significant achievements. This narrative exemplifies the potential rewards of risk-taking in career transitions, as their story resonates with others seeking similar life changes. The duo's ongoing ventures highlight their commitment to craftsmanship while also inviting others to explore new paths away from office environments.