2014 Design + Build

Benevolence Barn

Project Information

Clients: Benevolence Farm

Location: Benevolence Farm in Graham, NC

Size: 1200 SQFT

Program: Create a post harvesting and storage barn equipped with an open work area, separate cold and dry storage areas, as well as a tool storage area.

Materials: Concrete, Steel, Reclaimed Wood

Students: Morgan Cooney, Kevin Diamond, Zhendong Ding, Zachary Hoffman, Kimberly Johnson, Laura Liang, Yi-Chang Liao, Aaron Longo, Joshua Molter, Myriam Nasr, Nicholas Roberts, Meredith Smith, Brittany Spangler, Nicholas Strickland

Instructors: Randall Lanou, BuildSense; Erik Mehlman, BuildSense; Ellen Cassilly, Ellen Cassilly Architect; Joel Lubell, Teaching Assistant

Instructional Collaborators: Scott Metheny, BuildSense

Structural Engineer: Andrew Warnke, PE

Benevolence Farm seeks to cultivate leadership, promote sustainable livelihoods, and reap structural change for women impacted by the criminal justice system in North Carolina. Residents develop skills in sustainable farming, small business practices, food preparation and presentation in an environment that fosters improved physical, spiritual and financial health. In 2014, Benevolence Farm sought to build their first farm building on newly acquired land. Inspired by words of the residents, the Design + Build Studio envisioned an iconic and spiritually uplifting building that would capture the essence of rural North Carolina vernacular architecture. The simple wood framed structure was designed to maximize natural light with an open plan that enables multiple work, gathering, and community uses. The completed project is beautifully detailed, expansive, airy, comfortable, and inviting.