Barn Home Design Process
Click these links to see an example of designing and modeling a barn from the found frame to a finished home.
Design a Barn Home
We have customized an integrated 3D design and construction planning process that facilitates visualization and collaboration at every step, and also coordinates all technical aspects of a complex project. It allows for flexibility and interaction, starting with the found object of an antique barn frame. The example shown is a suggested plan for a special barn frame we have in stock. However this process allows us to revise and customize the design to the needs of it's eventual owner, and to adapt it to the properties of the site where it becomes a home.
We specialize in retaining the character and scale of the original structure, and also completing a home that is uniquely adapted to the life of it's owner. We work with AIA architects and engineers to insure structural integrity and compliance with local and national codes.
Follow the steps (above right) to see examples of how we can work with you to develop your custom barn home plan and design from beginning to completion.
Dismantling and Documenting the Found Barn
We locate barn frames from Pennsylvania to Vermont well suited for a home or studio, carefully disassemble them, and document the frame and parts for storage in Bucks County, PA. The images show this process for the Brown Barn, found in Castleton, VT.
Drawings from the site document the timber frame details, as all of the pieces will be reassembled on site with the original joinery intact.
Making a Frame Model in 3D CAD
Using Google SketchUp Pro, the frame is then modeled in 3D CAD, which is the beginning of a process of design and visualization. At this point the frame can be turned and viewed inside and out to begin visualization of where the living spaces and passages will go.
Space Planning
At this stage we work with our customers to plan living spaces. This often also involves planning added structures to retain the openness and scale of the original barn, and provide all the functions of a gracious life in the home.
In this example we have added additions to both sides of the barn structure on first floor for a mudroom, and bath close to a salt box shaped garage, and a master bedroom suite. The lower level created either by banking the barn front, or by a naturally sloping site is outfitted with bedrooms and baths, a social and entertainment area, and a game and exercise room, with glass doors and barn outer doors to the exterior.
Creating a Barn Home Model
To visualize and understand the home we create a full 3D model with allows viewing all aspects of the living spaces, kitchens and baths, the terrain on which the home will be placed, and even the sun light at any given day and time in the year.
This assists basic material choices for the interior and exterior, and we also can work on individual elements like stair cases, fireplaces, kitchen cabinetry and layout, even to the level of planning for specific furniture choices.
Technical Documentation
Our process is accurate and integrated with the generation of building plans, detail drawings, and all documents needed for review and each phase of construction, working with registered architects and engineers.
The entire process starts with a found barn frame, and at every step we are working from the scaled model with complete accuracy. This gives us a visual path to explore requests for customization, and work in partnership with you to assure it is uniquely fitted to your needs.