The White Barn is a conversion for use as a seasonal gallery on the picturesque island of Öland in Sweden. The White Barn, set in stunning wild scenery, has a long and storied history.
Once part of a 1900s farm complex, it housed the farm’s Sunday carriage. The barn also housed horses and pigs, sheltered by the historic stone walls. These walls divide the large site on which the barn sits.
The surrounding oak trees and grassland offer a beautiful backdrop to the barn, transformed into a flexible studio and gallery space. The gallery is a seasonal offering open in the summer months.
Proposals include a plywood interior lining. This helps mediate the uneven natural stone walls. They also recommend restoring the original tile roof and stone floor. Detailing of old and new openings makes sure the space is suitable for displaying artworks. Additionally, a piece of furniture will function as a small office. It will integrate with the plywood lining at one end of the space.
The project is part of a larger masterplan for the site. This includes a low-impact, off-grid dwelling, blending in with its natural surroundings. Visitors enjoy the beauty of the wild setting and the history of the rural setting for years to come.
