The Red Barn
Converting a historic dairy barn into a multipurpose events venue.
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Client: City of Festus
Location: Festus, MO
Phase I completed 2024
4,894 SF
$560,871
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Planning
Code Compliance and ADA
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Renderings and Visualizations
Construction Documents
Construction Administration
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New attached outdoor deck
New roof
New front entry with French doors and new window allowing in more daylight
New lighting fixtures
New fire suppression system
Accessibility upgrades
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Heritage and Conservation Remarkable Renovation and Restoration Projectfrom the St. Louis Council of Construction Consumers (SLC3)
A pop of warm color against the rolling green hills of Jefferson County, the City of Festus’s Red Barn is a testament to the region’s agricultural roots. Originally used for community events, the City had to stop using the Red Barn as a public space because of structural, life safety, and accessibility concerns.
For years, the Barn sat empty while problems with the roof and building envelope put the building at risk of further decline. After ARPA funds became available for stabilizing the Barn’s structure, Bond Architects was retained by the city to address life safety requirements, improve accessibility, and upgrade lighting.
“Working with Michelle Wells and the team at Bond Architects has been a fantastic experience. Their team has been incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and creative. They’ve listened attentively to the City’s vision for the Red Barn project and offered valuable insights throughout the design process. Personally, I’m impressed with their attention to detail and commitment to quality. I highly recommend Bond Architects for anyone looking for a talented and dedicated architectural firm.”
With the Red Barn’s rustic charm being its major selling point, authenticity was a top priority.
Because we wanted to preserve as much of the original barn as possible, our master plan focused on building around the barn instead of altering the existing structure.
To create more useable space, a deck was constructed around the barn in lieu of an addition. The deck connects to a new ADA ramp, creating a universally accessible main entry to the second-floor event space. A new concrete parking pad, adjacent to the ADA ramp, also improves accessibility.
Salvaging Materials
In addition to having a beautiful historic patina, the old growth wood used in the existing construction was remarkably strong compared to modern timber. Most of this wood was left untouched. Wherever existing wood was removed, the material was salvaged to replace water-damaged areas.
