Rebuilding Memories at The Preserve at Chocorua

Tamworth, NH – When Ed and Mary Phelps awoke on the night of November 14, 2017, they discovered their beloved and popular wedding event barn at The Preserve at Chocorua fully engulfed in flames. The landmark structure was a total loss. While there were thankfully no injuries, the family faced a daunting challenge: they had dozens of weddings and special events already scheduled for the upcoming season.

Determined to rebuild in time to salvage the 2018 wedding season, the Phelps family sought help. After several inquiries, Ed Phelps was recommended to contact Jewett Construction Company, a design-build construction management firm based in Raymond, NH.

“We received a call on a Thursday and I think we drove up to visit the site on Friday,” recalls Craig Jewett, President and Owner of Jewett Construction. “Hearing the story of the barn and what had happened, we really wanted to try to help. Add in the challenge of trying to rebuild in record time and we could not resist.”

To take on this urgent and meaningful project, Jewett Construction partnered with Samyn D’Elia Architects of Ashland, NH—renowned for their timber frame structure expertise. Architect Cris Salomon and his team moved swiftly to design and source materials to give the barn a chance to be rebuilt on schedule.

Reconstructing a timber barn in the New Hampshire North Country during winter is no small feat. Nevertheless, Jewett Construction, Samyn D’Elia, and numerous local vendors and contractors worked tirelessly to make it happen. Ground was broken in early February, and by mid-April, the timber frame was already erected and structural insulated panels (SIPs) were being installed. Timberpeg, a respected timber supply company from Claremont, NH, fabricated and delivered the timbers and SIPs.

The new barn, designed as a faithful replica of the original, will feature modern amenities including updated electrical, HVAC, and fire protection systems. It will retain the charm and beauty of exposed timbers, a second-floor mezzanine, a cupola, and a basement for storage. Windows and doors will open onto a wraparound deck and patio, along with a newly added gazebo to complete the picturesque setting.

The goal is for the barn to be fully operational in time to host summer weddings and events in 2018. For more details on the construction progress or to inquire about scheduling events at The Preserve at Chocorua, visit www.reservethepreserve.com.