While working with our clients to design a to-be-built addition to their primary residence, the question of where to locate a home gym surfaced. Rather than building new space to house the gym the existing well-sited, but underutilized, horse barn was determined to be the ideal spot. Not only were the proportions correct, the building also sits at the highest point on the property and offers arguably the best views of the distant mountains on the site. Converting the barn required stripping the building down to its frame, pouring a concrete floor where previously there was just dirt, and adding heating and cooling. To maximize views a large glass roll-up door was added to the west side of the building. The door can be completely opened on nice days and even when the weather is not ideal, the glass allows lots of light to enter and nicely frames the mountain views. The stall boards were cleaned and repurposed as wall cladding and vintage hewn beams serve as functional collar ties to support the roof over the now-completely clear-span room. Gym amenities include a climbing rope and gymnastics rings – both easy to accommodate thanks to the high vaulted ceiling.
