Description of the project by John Grable Architects
Located deep into the rugged hill country, this agrarian structure was erected to serve as a storage shed for ranch and construction equipment. Keeping in mind the function, remote location and availability of skilled labor, the Quonset hut was used as inspiration due to is flexible interior space and simple construction techniques.
In an effort to utilize the simple materials available to the area, trusses were constructed using recycled oil field pipe which also paid homage to owner's legacy within the oil industry. The low arching long free spans of the trusses allowed for maximum storage capacity while maintaining an unobtrusive building height consistent with the drought stricken mesquite landscape of the Texas Hill country.
A simple material palette of alternating bands of corrugated metal and translucent fiberglass panels was inspired by local ranch horizontal fence lines. These panels provide consistent glare-free light penetration into the 18,30 m wide by 36,60 m long structure during the day and act as a soft light emitting lantern at night.
The overhangs at each end of the building create beautiful daylight shadows and recall the crescent moon on the starlit back drop by night. The cupola roof and insulated ceiling allows for natural ventilation and cooling, providing a low temperature work environment consistent with the prevailing breeze and shade environments afforded by the trees and workers sombrilla hat.
- Flexible, 60’ x 120’ open-plan interior
- Recycled oil field pipe trusses provide interior clear span and exterior door rake-end overhang
- Alternating bands of corrugated metal and translucent fiberglass panels animate natural light
- ‘Quonset Hut’ Structure provides unobtrusive exterior building height and generous interior clearances
