Located on the site of a former working farm in northern Michigan, the Val Vista Farm and Barn design is grounded in the goal of reactivating the land for agrarian use while simultaneously providing functional event space for a wide variety of public programming. The new farm startup wanted a facility that harmoniously balanced the practical operational aspects of a working farm with the company’s desire to provide a well-curated and desirable user experience for the public.

Informed by the proximate forest and fields, the design strives to be modest to emphasize the daily functions of the farm and the land on which both the farm and barn reside. Contemporary in its expression but keeping with the vernacular of the region and that of a working farm, the facility is oriented to best soak up daylight and provide guests unobstructed access to the surrounding views.

Top of mind was creating a strong integration between the public, the natural surroundings and the functions of a working farm. The overall site layout and modest yet refined visual nature of the design intertwine the public spaces and the food production process to create a unique user experience.