Case Study 3: El Granero (the Barn)

Northern California

Client Vision

Commission Criteria: The commissioned project called for the creation of a robust ranch building that exuded an age of over a hundred years, both in appearance and ambiance. This building would serve as a dedicated facility for full-time ranch operations, requiring exceptional durability to withstand consistent heavy use. Versatility in functionality was a key consideration, as it needed to serve as a comfortable, well-lit, and insulated space suitable for meetings, conferences, education, workshops, as well as storage for feed and materials.

The client expressed a strong desire to preserve the authenticity of the building’s materials, favoring a genuine look and avoiding artificial finishes and pigments. It was essential that the building’s appearance be allowed to naturally age over time, while ensuring that its performance in terms of waterproofing, insulation, and longevity remained uncompromised.

The Process

A significant aspect of this project was the challenge of seamlessly blending contemporary architectural excellence with the rich heritage from which it drew inspiration. By adopting a minimalist approach to spatial utilization, the design successfully incorporated storage facilities and a half bathroom under the vast expanse of the night sky. The inclusion and prominence of meticulously crafted elements further enhanced the building’s overall authenticity and connection to its historical roots.

Building Systems & Materials

Elements of interests-

Vintage Halophane industrial lighting from the 1930’s from a factory in Cincinnati used in the Workshop was the first touch stone acquired for the project.
Board formed and weathered concrete walls and columns sandblasted to patina their texture.
Hand shaped single block stair treads from reclaimed timber.
Wood siding is a mix of 10” and 12” vertical board milled out of roof supports reclaimed from a church renovation in San Francisco. To achieve the “rustic barn” feel, the siding was shined off the wall (“vented”) and a special liquid applied membrane was used to maintain contemporary air and water performance.
Heavy timber posts and beams came out of the roof truss system from the Del Monte Cannery in San Jose, CA.
Workshop plaster was unpigmented and applied heavy with some hot spots of burnishing to show the hand applied nature of it.
Exterior architecture gives a sense that the building has been added onto over generations as different farmers expanded it to fit their needs.
2” thick end grain wood block flooring was used for the Work Shop room. A nod to a factory floor of the 19th century
The garage door motors were such a stark rebuke of the character of the building that it was decided they would be covered.
All exposed wood elements are reclaimed Douglas Fur- Wire brushed and left untreated
4” basalt paving blocks (sometimes referred to as Belgian blocks) make up the apron to the shop space, an effort to reject migrating rocks and mud into the shop and give an old world feel.
Reclaimed siding was applied to contemporary sectional garage doors that close directly against the concrete columns, giving an appearance of a section of the wall.
Several hidden doors with unique use cases expressed in the building.
Full plaster attic space
A water jet boot cleaner was incorporated to help flight the losing battle of dirty ranch feet continuing to age the floor.

Sustainability

The use of reclaimed wood in construction offers several compelling reasons, including its unique aesthetic appeal, environmental benefits, and waste reduction.

Distinctive Aesthetics: Reclaimed wood exhibits a rich character and patina that cannot be replicated by new materials. The weathered texture, unique grain patterns, and historical significance of reclaimed wood add a sense of warmth, authenticity, and charm to any space. It provides a distinct visual appeal that adds depth and character to architectural designs.
Environmental Sustainability: Choosing reclaimed wood contributes to environmental sustainability by repurposing and giving new life to materials that would otherwise be discarded or wasted. By salvaging and reusing wood from old structures, such as barns, factories, or warehouses, we can minimize the demand for new timber extraction, which helps preserve forests and reduces deforestation.
Waste Reduction: Construction generates a significant amount of waste, including discarded or demolished wood structures. By incorporating reclaimed wood into construction projects, we divert these materials from landfills and reduce the overall waste generated by the industry. This practice promotes circular economy principles by extending the lifespan of existing resources and minimizing the need for virgin timber.
Carbon Footprint Reduction: Reclaimed wood has a lower carbon footprint compared to new timber. As wood ages and undergoes natural weathering, it becomes more stable and releases less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Additionally, reusing salvaged wood eliminates the energy-intensive processes involved in harvesting, processing, and manufacturing new wood products, further reducing carbon emissions.
Preservation of History and Heritage: Utilizing reclaimed wood allows us to preserve the historical and cultural significance embedded within these materials. Each piece of reclaimed wood carries a story and contributes to the narrative of the past, fostering a connection to our heritage and promoting sustainable practices rooted in respect for the environment and architectural traditions.

Reclaimed wood in construction not only adds unique aesthetics and character to a project but also contributes to waste reduction by repurposing materials, reducing the demand for new timber, and minimizing environmental impact. It is a sustainable choice that aligns with responsible construction practices, fostering a greener and more sustainable future.