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When the Fort Worth-based American Paint Horse Association decided to relocate its headquarters to a more vibrant and visible location, the Stockyards District was an ideal destination. APHA chose Mule Alley, a 180,000 sf redevelopment of buildings that once served as horse and mule barns in the early 20th century. To go from dilapidated barns to a modern office headquarters would take nothing short of a transformation of the space. VLK’s office design was highly influenced by the building’s original use. Former horse stalls now serve as single offices, complete with sliding glass barn doors. The old hayloft has been replaced with a conference space, overlooking the rest of the offices. The design fully integrates the original building’s clerestories, clay tiles, and brick walls with modern office amenities. It’s a reimagining of the space’s humble origins, an incorporation of its heritage, and a unique expression of APHA’s traditions and future intentions.