Somis Haybarn
![Studio Pali Fekete architects [SPF:a], John Edward Linden · Somis Haybarn](https://images.divisare.com//images/c_limit,f_auto,h_2000,q_auto,w_3000/v1/project_images/552084/1431642597/studio-pali-fekete-architects-spf-a-john-edward-linden-somis-haybarn.jpg)
How many architects are rethinking the haybarn? SPF:a sought a creative and poetic way of storing hay and providing shelter for an equestrian program.
![Studio Pali Fekete architects [SPF:a], John Edward Linden · Somis Haybarn](https://images.divisare.com//images/c_limit,f_auto,h_2000,q_auto,w_3000/v1/project_images/552080/299909893/studio-pali-fekete-architects-spf-a-john-edward-linden-somis-haybarn.jpg)
The concept is based on the ever-changing color and positioning of the hay as cladding on the barn. When hay is stacked along the outer storage shelves in the winter, it is green; as the season unfolds, the hay turns yellow, and the caretaker removes it from the shelves as it is used for feed. Both factors keep the facade forever in a state of evolution. The building is a metaphor for life, death and birth, common seasonal themes in an agrarian society.
![Studio Pali Fekete architects [SPF:a], John Edward Linden · Somis Haybarn](https://images.divisare.com//images/c_limit,f_auto,h_2000,q_auto,w_3000/v1/project_images/552076/1065303313/studio-pali-fekete-architects-spf-a-john-edward-linden-somis-haybarn.jpg)
The barn itself can house four horses, tractors, tack room, and other farm equipment needed for maintaining the forty-acre lemon grove that surrounds it. The steel structural system is designed based on a simple grid, constructed to the ideal dimensions for a horse stable. Natural ventilation is encouraged via open clerestories, and the large roof overhang protects the cladding from the rain.
![Studio Pali Fekete architects [SPF:a], John Edward Linden · Somis Haybarn](https://images.divisare.com//images/c_limit,f_auto,h_2000,q_auto,w_3000/v1/project_images/552064/1782799601/studio-pali-fekete-architects-spf-a-john-edward-linden-somis-haybarn.jpg)
The Hay Barn uses bales of hay as an exterior cladding that simultaneously animates the visual experience of the barn by constant reduction and addition of bale modules. The hay serves a dual purpose, providing a high degree of insulation to the interior space, and providing a year round comfortable environment for its equine inhabitants.
![Studio Pali Fekete architects [SPF:a], John Edward Linden · Somis Haybarn](https://images.divisare.com//images/c_limit,f_auto,h_2000,q_auto,w_3000/v1/project_images/552072/384851619/studio-pali-fekete-architects-spf-a-john-edward-linden-somis-haybarn.jpg)
Awards:
![Studio Pali Fekete architects [SPF:a], John Edward Linden · Somis Haybarn](https://images.divisare.com//images/c_limit,f_auto,h_2000,q_auto,w_3000/v1/project_images/552068/641579420/studio-pali-fekete-architects-spf-a-john-edward-linden-somis-haybarn.jpg)
California Council AIA Award, 2005
National AIA Honor Award 2004
LA AIA Design Merit Award 2004
Los Angeles Business Council Award 2003
PA Citation, Architecture Magazine 1999
Publications:
Metropolis Magazine 2005
Architectural Record Magazine 2005
Architecture Magazine 2005
LA Architect Magazine 2004
Architecture Magazine 1999 (pre completion)