A storage structure that was also used as a chicken coop on an Ohio farm was given the opportunity to exude a new purpose upon the farm’s turnover to the next generation. Rather than removing the structure completely, the concrete slab was salvaged with the intention of constructing a new structure to sit on the existing footprint.
The project retains its farm roots, pulling local resources into the renovation. One of the construction objectives was to use straw bale insulation. This allowed for use of natural materials, while also retaining a high (R) value. The dominant design goal of the project, though, was to initiate the practice of using locally sourced materials and existing conditions to achieve sustainable homes with minimal footprints on generational farms.
Existing Conditions
Respecting existing purpose and ideology was imperative. The original use of the sliding wall influenced the redesign with new features that were retrofitted for its new purpose: shading. Extracting the idea from the mechanics of the sliding wall led to a kinetic screen which can be operated by the occupants. This provides opportunistic daylighting and shading based off of existing site conditions.
Elevations
Floor Plan
The deep wall thickness creates an opportunity for storage, a necessity in compact spaces. Having a deep sill in combination with the hay bale insulation allows deep carves in the plan to create formal moments that enhance the space while optimizing the footprint and maximizing storage potential. The shading screen is operable through a winch on the interior of the home, connecting the user to the outside directly. This gesture reminds the user of the original structural purpose of the coop with the moving exterior wall.
Bedroom
Operable shading screen system
