Coming Soon-Elm and Hearth
We’re building something special in the woods just outside Ames — and we can't wait to welcome you.
Nestled in a quiet forest but only ten minutes from Jack Trice Stadium, The Cafe, and downtown Ames (plus just 40 minutes from Des Moines’ East Village), our wellness Airbnb is designed to be a restorative retreat — one where nature, design, and well-being come together. No plane ticket required.
Cabin designed by Kiel Uhl
Why We’re Building This
The idea came from a simple desire: to create the kind of place we kept looking for but couldn’t quite find — a space that felt secluded but still connected, luxurious but grounded, minimal but deeply nourishing inspired by our travels and personal experiences.
Much of the inspiration has been pulled from our personal experiences from travel and a need from different seasons of our life. The roots stemming from my time as a cross country and track athlete at Iowa State-time spent in the sauna in our locker room after winter runs and frequent ice baths after practice. I participated in research in saunas while completing my doctorate in physical therapy at University of Iowa. But all of these ideas started to come together in 2014 when we honeymooned in Eastern Europe. We spent a few days in an A-frame cabin on the side of a mountain in Slovenia- enjoying the slow pace and views with a French press coffee each morning. We spent an afternoon at Szecheny Thermal Baths in Budapest and loved the social and health benefits of contrast baths. We loved the experience of it all and have wanted to recreate something similar. Over the years, we grew our family to 5 with the addition of three boys. Much of what we are creating in Elm and Hearth stems from what we’ve needed in different points in our life as individuals, a couple, and parents.
Elm and Heart is for those seeking reconnection-with themselves and with nature. It’s built on the understanding that the everyday grind demands, rest, renewal, and genuine connection. For those who crave that experience but struggle to find it- who live in places where wellness retreats feel out of reach and cannot travel monthly to feel grounded- there is an answer: Elm & Hearth. A wellness cabin designed to evoke a sense of wholeness- the missing piece they’ve been searching for.
We believe in the power of nature, clean design, and intentional living. Intentionally designed to bring nature in. So that’s what we’re building.
What You’ll Find Here
This isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a place to rest, feel renewed, and connect to who matters.
When we open in Fall 2025, guests will be able to enjoy a full suite of wellness features, including:
Panoramic barrel sauna overlooking the woods
Hot tub + cold plunge for contrast therapy
Steam shower for deep relaxation
Yoga deck nestled among the trees
Forest bathing paths for quiet walks or meditative moments
Air purifiers and water filtration for a clean, clear environment
Low-toxic, high-quality products — everything from bedding to bath essentials
Optional private experiences, including yoga sessions, Reiki, massage, lymphatic drainage, and personal chef-prepared meals
We’re doing everything we can to make this a low-tox, high-vibe space — one that supports your body and nervous system from the moment you arrive.
Who It’s For
Elm & Heart is for those with the mindset to invest in their well-being. They see self-care in various forms as essential not indulgent- a personal ritual or shared experience with those they hold close. Our space will be ideal for couples, solo travelers, and small groups of friends. The reason and occasion endless but ideal for those seeking slow morning and for those seeking a space to grow into a more whole version of themselves.
We hope it feels like a deep exhale.
Opening Soon
We’re currently in the construction phase and aiming for an early Fall 2025 opening. If you’re curious, excited, or already planning your next staycation, we’d love to keep you in the loop.
Follow along as we build — and be the first to know when pre-bookings open. You can follow along at www.elmandhearth.com or check out our Instagram.