1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
7. Roll out the dough on parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Using a gingerbread house template or freehand, cut out walls and roof pieces.
9. Transfer pieces to baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 10-15 minutes until firm but not overly browned.
11. Let pieces cool completely on a cooling rack.
12. Prepare royal icing to use as glue.
13. On your cardboard base, pipe royal icing along edges and assemble the walls first, holding them until set.
14. Attach the roof pieces once walls are stable.
15. Decorate the house with royal icing and assorted candies as desired.
16. Allow the entire structure to dry and set for several hours before moving.