Heritage Barns raise the bar on adaptive reuse: Based in Waco, Texas, the company finds disused barns from across the country, which they then dismantle, restore, and re-erect–the best bit, of course, is the barn-raising party.
N.B. To learn how architect Kimberly Peck (a member of the Remodelista Architecture/Designer Directory ) turned a Heritage Barn timber frame into an energy efficient home in the Catskills, see our post: The Architect Is In: A Rural Barn Transformed for Modern Living.
Above: Naturally aged rough sawn cypress siding clads the Atlamont Dutch Barn, originally from Altamont, New York, and now relocated in Alexandria, Louisiana.
Above: The Brown Road Barn in Westchester County, New York, makes full display of its exposed structural timber.
Above: A tiled shower has been inserted into the loft space of a the Brown Road Barn.
Above: Grovenors Corners barn was built near the town of Cobleskill, NY, circa 1820, and is now a home in the Texas Hill country.
Above: The Ripley Dutch Barn, a New World Dutch Barn from 1770, started life in Glen, New York, and is now located in Glen Rose, Texas.
Above: The Ripley Dutch Barn in its previous state of disuse and disrepair.
Above: The Ames Barn after its makeover into a home.
Above: The re-erected timber frames of the Ames Barn.
Above: Heritage Barn builders begin the barn raising party.
Above: A lap joint forms the roof pitch, held together with a wooden dowel.
Who doesn’t want to live in a barn? See 180 images of Barn Living in our Gallery of rooms and spaces.
N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on June 23, 2012.
Frequently asked questions
What are reassembled barns?
Reassembled barns are old barns that are dismantled, transported to a new location, and reassembled into a modern dwelling.
What are the benefits of using reassembled barns as modern dwellings?
Reassembled barns can provide unique and rustic architectural elements, as well as a connection to the history of the area. They are also often more affordable than building a new home from scratch.
How do you choose the right barn for your modern dwelling?
Choose a barn that has good bones and is structurally sound. You should also consider the size and shape of the barn, as well as the amount of natural light available.
What are the challenges of using reassembled barns as modern dwellings?
One of the main challenges is ensuring the structural integrity of the barn after it has been reassembled. You may also need to update the wiring, plumbing, and insulation.
What are some popular design features for reassembled barns as modern dwellings?
Popular design features include using the original wood beams and columns as a focal point, adding modern amenities such as large windows and open floor plans, and incorporating natural materials such as stone and reclaimed wood.
How do you find a reassembled barn for your modern dwelling project?
You can search online for companies that specialize in reassembling old barns, or contact local historical societies or preservation organizations for leads on available barns.
How much does it cost to use a reassembled barn as a modern dwelling?
The cost will vary depending on the size and condition of the barn, as well as the required updates and customization. However, it is often less expensive than building a new home from scratch.
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