A Homey Upgrade in Hesston: The Fix Family Pavilion
When Dennis and Tammy Fix looked at the open space behind their log cabin in Hesston, Pennsylvania, they saw potential.
The couple has owned their second home for about 13 years, a peaceful retreat tucked into the natural beauty of the area. But they knew the uncovered space behind their cabin had more to offer.
“We have an area at the back of our cabin and thought it would be more useful if it was covered because sometimes it’s cold and rainy,” Tammy said. “We had seen other people in the area add a pavilion, and we decided to go for it. We started shopping around.”
Finding the Right Fit
While visiting Big Valley, they began asking around about local craftsmen who built pavilions. That search eventually led them to Honey Creek.
“We ended up with Levi’s information,” Tammy said. From there, the process moved quickly and smoothly.
“The design process was easy. It was so easy,” Tammy shared. “With pavilions, it’s mostly about deciding the size, shape and colors. You just have to pick out the color, the roof color, the cement – all your finishes.”
Their first meeting made an impression before any paperwork was signed.
“Levi made the process so easy because we actually met at an ice cream shop,” Tammy said. “He didn’t tell us at the time, but when we got there, we were like, ‘Oh, this cement work is great. The pavilion is great.’ It turns out, he had built it.”
Seeing the craftsmanship in person helped solidify their vision.
“I like the big timbers, that chunky look,” she said. “There were a couple different cements there, so I could see what we wanted in person.”
Levi later visited their cabin, measured the space and provided a quote.
“He came out, looked, measured, gave us a price and we went from there,” Tammy said. “It all went exactly how he said it would go.”
The Build
The Fixes chose a 14-by-20-foot pavilion finished in a warm tavern oak stain, paired with a green metal roof that complements the natural surroundings of their log cabin. Underfoot, stamped concrete with a board-stamp pattern adds texture and character.
To elevate the space even further, they worked with Legacy Brick and Stone to add a beautiful stone fireplace with a built-in pizza oven. Lighting and electrical work were completed by their electrician.
The construction process itself exceeded expectations.
“The time frame was excellent,” Tammy said. “It was built in one day, and they returned for a few finishes the next. I also appreciated how they left the job sight so neat and clean – ready to be used immediately.”
The finished pavilion was completed in late July 2025. Since then, it has quickly become the heart of their cabin gatherings.
A Space Made for Gathering
“I bet we have used it to entertain at least a dozen times,” Tammy said. “And we’re only there seasonally. It’s a great space for friends and family to gather. Everyone loves it.”
Since construction, Tammy has thoughtfully furnished the space for both dining and relaxing. A long metal table with chairs anchors the area for meals, while a sofa, a couple of chairs and an ottoman sit closer to the fireplace, creating a cozy conversation corner.
What was once an underused outdoor area is now a warm, welcoming extension of their cabin. Rain or shine, chilly evenings or pizza nights with friends, the pavilion offers comfort, style and a reason to gather.
For Dennis and Tammy Fix, the addition was more than a structure. It was an investment in time together, in hospitality and in making the most of their second home in Hesston.
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