Green Building Design at the Barn at Fallingwater

The historic dairy barn once owned by the Kaufmann family at Fallingwater, Mill Run, Pennsylvania, has recently undergone a renovation for its futrue use as offices and a regional visitors' center. One of the unique "green" features of the barn is the recycled tongue and groove maple floor in the upper level of the original nineteenth-century building. The project's construction manager, Clearview Project Services, removed the flooring from a Pittsburgh convent, and they suggested its reuse in the barn. The finished floor is treated to withstand moisture since the upper barn is not headed and to some degree open to the elements. Today's photos, by Museum Programs Assistant Clinton Piper, depict the floor installation (top left) and the completed floor (bottom right).

The completion of the renovation of The Barn at Fallingwater means the beginning of a new space that is flexible enough to be used for a variety of events. The barn has already started realizing its potential as a valuable meeting and conference facility for the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and organizations from both the public and private sectors. Groups can now come together to take advantage of other rooms too, such as a fully equipped meeting room with its full complement of audio/visual technology. An LCD projector, microphones, CD-ROM, DVD, VHS, and stereo sound comprise this integrated system that is operated from a single, touch-screen control panel. WPC network access, high speed internet connections and SMART Board™ technology are also available. The facility also serves as host to educational programs, exhibitions, workshops and other endeavors. In addition to the meeting and exhibition facility, the original hayloft of the barn (shown here) has been renovated and is now the site of large group gatherings such as wedding receptions, family reunions, corporate picnics and other celebrations and events. Full catering and other services are also available. Any of the barn's facilities can be rented by the public and the barn is available for use year round. For more information about The Barn at Fallingwater, contact Jennifer Sisley at 724-329-1441 x1019, or at jsisley@paconserve.org.

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