EMBRACE STUDENT FARM
The design of the Willow Lake Student Farm barn is rooted in the concept of connection—an intentional embrace between people, nature, and built form. Inspired by the farm’s mission of sustainability and education, the barn seeks to dissolve the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, fostering a fluid relationship between the cultivated landscape and the architectural environment. This sense of unity is achieved through the thoughtful use of materials, colors, and forms that reflect the natural surroundings and evoke a feeling of warmth and belonging.
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The structure itself is more than a functional shelter; it is a symbol of growth and collaboration. Drawing from the curves and organic flow of the surrounding environment, the barn’s form invites users to experience the space as both a place of work and inspiration. Natural light floods the interior, reinforcing the connection to the outside world, while durable, sustainable materials ensure longevity and resilience.
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The Willow Lake Student Farm, located in Manhattan, Kansas, is a research and education facility dedicated to sustainable horticultural practices with a primary focus on sustainable food production. As part of its mission to become a premier small- to medium-scale demonstration site for diversified farming, the farm seeks to expand and enhance its facilities. The new barn will provide spaces that support current activities while fostering new opportunities for outreach, education, and research. This project involves direct collaboration with the farm’s owner to ensure a functional, purpose-driven design that meets the needs of a student-run farm.
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Ultimately, the barn at Willow Lake Student Farm represents the convergence of sustainability, education, and design. It stands as a living laboratory where future farmers, educators, and advocates for sustainable agriculture can cultivate new ideas and deepen their understanding of responsible food production in a space that inspires, educates, and nurtures.
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PROGRAMS USED: Rhino, Enscape
