Building the Bluegrass Barn
Building the Bluegrass Barn
On a peaceful hillside in Stowe , a gorgeous barn-style structure stands next to a tall maple tree with a gently-swaying tire swing . Its back porch is topped by a lofty , vaulted roof , which casts shadows down onto a fieldstone patio . A spacious clearing in the backyard with a fire pit and pond is bisected by a Nordic skiing and mountain biking trail , which connects to one of Stowe ’ s larger trail networks . Built on the site of an old farmhouse and cottage , the enchanting structure seamlessly blends classic Vermont style with modern architectural sensibilities . The versatile property hosts both small musical retreats and larger gatherings , which are facilitated by its community-minded owners , Annie , and Sam Bartlett .
Originally , Annie Bartlett came across the property while skiing down the same trail that runs through the barn ’ s backyard . At the time , the structures that occupied the space where the barn now stands were entirely different . Nevertheless , Bartlett recalls that the grounds still possessed an undeniably charming quality . “ I came around the corner in the winter and I saw the Worcester range lit up by the sunset . It was amazing .” When the property became available , the Bartletts leapt at the opportunity to acquire it and preserve it . “ Our friends in Stowe were looking for gathering and community spaces . Particularly , there was a need for spaces that could take advantage of Stowe ’ s incredible natural beauty .”
Throughout the year-long rebuilding campaign that spanned from 2020 to 2021 , the Bartletts worked closely with the gifted Stowe-based architect , Andrew Volansky , to actualize their vision . As a result of Volansky ’ s meticulous and thoughtful design work , the barn was reborn as a welcoming creative oasis . Throughout the rebuilding process , Volansky collaborated with talented , hardworking , locally-based Vermont contractors and craftspeople , such as Alec Genung Construction , Inc ., Sterling Staircase , Ambler Design , Custom Metal Fabricators LLC , and IronArt Custom Metalworks , among others .
Volansky ’ s overarching architectural philosophy of “ Vermont Mountain
Alison Cummings Broker / Owner 802.236.7564
Chris Cummings Agent / Owner 413.896.4677
Lisa Kelly Licensed Broker 802.345.6581
Stratton . Bromley . Magic . Okemo
Dan McKenna Licensed Agent 802.356.6948
Deborah Hanst Licensed Agent 802.855.1972
Jessica Citera Licensed Agent 802.236.1118
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