The owners of a Virginia-based farm operation with related agritourism wanted to explore the idea of converting an old small barn into a flexible, multi-purpose agricultural structure. Their vision was to transform the barn into a place for activities that were part of their emerging agritourism business model.
NSA’s work involved documenting the structure, analyzing the structure for construction issues and impacts, preparing scope options for how to convert the existing building and add onto it and an overall master plan for the site. Four conceptual options were developed, each with several variations. After review, one basic option was expanded for the clients to consider; the barn would be remodeled as a proposed first phase, and an addition(s) added as needed as a proposed second phase and third phases.
Initially, the interior spaces of the barn would include a restroom, kitchenette, and two separate mezzanines, connected by a bridge, creating spaces for reading or intimate conversation. Above the mezzanines would be the gabled roof structure with two levels of collar ties and punctuated by two or three skylights. The mezzanine would be accessed via a spiral stair located in a corner bay. The mezzanine not only creates additional space but acts as a structural reinforcement and bracing mechanism for the structure. The finish for the interior of the walls would be wood paneling to enhance the ‘barn’ aesthetic. Surface kicker braces of 2x6s or 2x8s over the interior finish would provide additional lateral resistance as well as creating an ‘X’ pattern on the inside that is like the old kicker braces used in traditional barn construction.
After discussions, it was decided that the bathroom and kitchenette would be moved out of the existing barn and into one of the additions. The barn would remain as an open meeting and reading space. Plan options were then developed for this revised option. The proposed addition(s) would be similar in size to the existing barn but would be conventional stud framing. In the basic scheme expanded for the client, the addition would step down the slope from the barn but would maintain the ceiling height and roof line and a proposed terrace would wrap two sides of the addition.