VLK Architects and LCISD Open District's Second Agriculture Barn
(Rosenberg, TX) - On the first day of school, dozens of students will have a new home for their livestock projects in a 16,500 SF Agriculture Barn in the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District. VLK Architects worked diligently with LCISD, designing the district's second Agriculture Barn that is located on the north side of the district and will help with problems of limited capacity at the existing Ag. Barn.
As a responsible steward of Lamar CISD's budget, VLK Architects paid careful attention to areas that would lower project cost and emphasize flexibility with additional space at each end of the barn to accommodate future growth and technology changes over the life of the facility. To maintain and enhance the front entrance, aesthetically appealing two-tone burnished stone, coupled with perforated metal screens, accentuates the look while securing the space and maintaining accessibility. The barn will house cattle, hogs, goats, lamb, and poultry and the comfort of the animals was a major factor throughout the design process. To take advantage of the prevailing winds, the barn was strategically placed to allow a natural constant flow of air to cool the animals. The design incorporates a grazing and exercise area for the animals and trench drains for easy clean-up and drainage. By centrally placing key components such as wash and grooming areas and feed storage spaces, the design provides accessibility for the animals, students, and vendors. Trucks and trailers are able to drive through the center of the building to allow for easy loading and unloading of animals and feed. For security purposes, lighting and surveillance cameras are used to constantly monitor the complex.
"We are grateful for our partnership with LCISD and the chance to design a project that creates hands-on learning opportunities for the students," said VLK Architects' Partner, Todd J. Lien.