This project was built and designed by Gary Herd, known as The Bearded Woodworker, along with his son. It was created as an extra credit assignment for an English class, blending woodworking with literature, architecture, and family collaboration.
Inspired by One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, the birdhouse is modeled after the Oregon State Hospital in Salem, Oregon. The build pays tribute to the novel’s setting while also providing an opportunity for learning both in and out of the workshop.
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A Project Rooted in Literature and Local History
The idea for this build came from an assignment tied to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, a story set in the real-life Oregon State Hospital. That hospital, located in Salem, was once near Gary’s family home, giving the project a personal layer of meaning.
Gary and his son decided to recreate the hospital’s structure as a birdhouse, turning a reading project into a hands-on woodworking challenge. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece that honors both the story and the landmark.
Sketching the Design and Planning the Build
The design began with a rough sketch of the hospital’s recognizable structure. Gary’s son took the lead on planning and execution, while Gary offered help and tips along the way.
The plan focused on capturing the general shape and rooflines of the building. Although many small architectural details were simplified, the overall silhouette remained true to the original, making the birdhouse a clear tribute.
Cutting the Parts and Building the Frame
The construction started by cutting all the panels to size. Standard woodworking tools were used, including a miter saw, drill, pocket hole jig, and clamps for securing parts during assembly.
The panels were joined with wood glue and pocket screws to create a solid base. Brad nails helped reinforce the roof and smaller sections that required extra support.
A big part of this project involved balancing durability with appearance. Each cut and connection was made with care to keep the structure functional as a birdhouse while preserving the building’s character.
Roof Design and Structural Details
The roof featured a multi-slope layout that mimicked the hospital’s slanted roofline. Several smaller wood pieces were trimmed and glued into place to add angles and depth.
Gary and his son worked together to ensure the roof pieces lined up and stayed secure. To hold everything flat, clamps were used while the glue set, especially where small triangles were added to create the overhangs.
Small Features and Personal Touches
Creative details added charm and uniqueness to the project. One example is a mini door knob made from an old broom handle—shaped, flattened, and attached to simulate the hospital’s entrance.
Another clever touch was the use of a golf tee, added as a quirky visual element. These small, creative additions helped bring the model to life and made the final result even more personal.
Painting and Finishing the Birdhouse
To finish the birdhouse, red spray paint was used to give it a cohesive, vibrant look. Multiple thin coats were applied to maintain visibility of the wood grain while achieving a solid, even color.
Strategic drilling created window holes in the front of the house. Below them, a small perch was installed to give the birdhouse practical use while staying in line with the visual design.
Some parts of the natural wood were intentionally left unpainted to show contrast and texture. This added an aged look that matched the history behind the building.
Learning Through Building
Beyond the tools and techniques, this was a learning experience that brought a school assignment to life. Gary’s son handled most of the build, learning how to use pocket holes, brad nailers, and layout tools along the way.
They discussed the themes of the novel as they built, particularly the role of Chief Bromden as the narrator. This deeper discussion made the experience more than just a build—it became a chance to reflect on perspective, storytelling, and craftsmanship.
A Creative Blend of Craft and Story
What makes this birdhouse stand out is the way it blends creative vision with woodworking basics. It’s not just a place for birds—it’s a project with a backstory, purpose, and heart.
Projects like this show how woodworking can be used to explore ideas and connect with literature, history, and family. They also demonstrate how planning, problem-solving, and creativity come together in the workshop.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Gary’s channel: