In a remarkable feat of ingenuity and passion for winter sports, an Eastern Ontario man has transformed the upper level of his barn into a fully functional ice rink. John Ryan, a resident of Perth, Ont., completed this unique project, bringing the classic Canadian pastime of skating into a most unexpected location.
A Lofty Ambition Realized
The construction of the rink took place in the second-storey loft of Ryan's barn. This ambitious project required careful planning to ensure the structure could support the significant weight of the ice and skaters. The rink was completed and ready for use by January 8, 2025, as documented by CTV News Ottawa's Peter Szperling.
Creating an ice surface on an elevated wooden floor presented unique challenges, primarily involving insulation, waterproofing, and managing the freezing process to prevent damage to the barn's structure below. Ryan's successful implementation demonstrates a significant understanding of both construction and ice-making techniques.
The Heart of a Canadian Winter
This project goes beyond a simple DIY endeavor; it embodies the creative spirit often found in rural Canadian communities, especially during the long winter months. For many, access to a maintained outdoor rink can be limited, making a personal rink a coveted feature. Ryan's solution of utilizing existing barn space is both resourceful and evocative of traditional farmstead adaptability.
The town of Perth, located about an hour southwest of Ottawa, is no stranger to cold winters conducive to outdoor ice. However, an indoor-outdoor rink in a barn loft offers a sheltered experience, protected from wind and snow, while still providing the authentic feel of natural ice.
Inspiration and Community Impact
While the article focuses on Ryan's personal achievement, projects like these often serve as inspiration for neighbors and fellow community members. Homemade rinks are a staple of Canadian childhoods and community bonding, but elevating the concept—literally—to a barn loft sets a new standard for winter creativity.
This initiative highlights how Canadians repurpose spaces and embrace winter rather than simply enduring it. It turns a functional agricultural structure into a center for recreation and family fun, blending the country's rural heritage with its iconic winter culture.
As of the report's publication date of January 8, 2026, Ryan's barn loft rink stands as a testament to a project conceived and enjoyed during the previous winter season, its story continuing to resonate as a unique example of local innovation.
