The White Barn, Michael Fields Agricultural Institute East Troy, Wisconsin
Teaching Bio-Dynamic Farming The was created to teach farmers bio-dynamic growing methods. We helped the Institute remodel the White Barn for the interns who join them each growing season, to live on the grounds and work in the fields and gardens. The lower level, where milk cows used to stand, has become dormitory space, while the lofty hay mow above houses office space and a large gathering and performance space.
Many Wisconsin barns built in the 1800's are framed with heavy timbers. This one however was built in sections, likely in the 1930's to 1950's, with a light-wood truss type of roof framing. To safely re-use the building for it's new purpose, a great deal of creative structural re-working was needed to restore and reinforce the wind-racked span and bring it to current standards.
above: 'before' photos of exterior and interior, and part of the structural analysis
The Rudolf Steiner Foundation provided financial support for the building project.
