Design Challenge: Dress Homes, an upscale residential developer, aimed to enrich their community with appealing amenities such as a playground, pool house, and pool. The proposed location for the pool house, Elliott Farm Barn, was already occupied by a well-preserved 1930s barn.

Design Outcome: Rather than demolishing the well-preserved historic barn, MSP integrated it into the plan. Renovations added restrooms, an equipment room, and a spacious open-air event center. Sliding barn doors improve airflow in warm weather and protect during rain or cooler temperatures. Reused wood flooring planks for cladding, preserved standing seam metal roof, and exterior wood detailing maintain the barn’s rustic charm. This approach minimized disruption to trees and the wooded setting. Elliott Farm Barn now serves as a vibrant three-season community center, complementing amenities like a community garden, walking trails, playground, pool, and firepit, fostering a strong sense of community among residents.

Discover more retail & hospitality projects within MSP Design’s portfolio.