How One Westlake Family Built a Colorful Winter Igloo
January's frigid temperatures allowed the winter project to come to life.
by Liza Marra | Feb. 5, 2026 | 5:00 AM
Courtesy Allison Babiuch
One local family decided to make the most of the winter weather this year by building their very own igloo. Lit up by a spotlight, the colorful creation is visible even after dark on Rocky Ridge Drive in Westlake.
The impressive creation began by filling about 120 lasagna pans with water and food coloring, which were then left to freeze on the front porch.
“I’ve been wanting to do this for a few years,” says Allison Babiuch.
Babiuch says she first attempted this feat by herself a few years ago and failed due to inadequate weather. This time, however, she had help.
When Babiuch saw the frigid forecast in January, she knew it would be ideal for igloo construction. School and work closings around town provided the perfect time to finally accomplish this goal.
The team of Babiuch, her husband and their two children worked for over a week to complete the igloo.
Construction took place in the front yard. The family used a “slush mortar,” a mix of snow and water, to stick the ice blocks together in rows. Once a row was assembled, it froze solid, compliments of Ohio weather.
The team of four worked in shifts. When on break, hot chocolate was a necessity and gloves were thrown in the dryer to prepare for the winter wind once again.
See more photos of the igloo creation below:
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