This project is the result of studio collaboration with Australian architect Glenn Murcutt. Strongly influenced by Murcutt’s architectural ethos, the building seeks, above all, to respond to the myriad conditions laid forth by the site.
As such, the simple timber structure follows the contours of an existing cattle path, opening up to the valley below. A drop-through floor keeps the animals clean of waste, which is channeled to an anaerobic digester that powers the entire facility. Operable rear doors permit cattle to enter and exit at an angle, as they prefer, while allowing southwest winds to flow through the building during hot summer months. A string of pines is planted at the top of the ridge, significantly reducing smells for the city beyond.
During winter months, doors and wall louvers are closed and metal roof monitors are opened. Combined with prevalent northeast winds, a stack effect is created, pulling hot air up and out of the building to keep interior temperature regulated.
