Metal helped build a storage unit that also functions as a hangout spot
Valdosta, Ga.-based Quillian Powell Construction Co. Inc., an Eufaula, Ala.-based American Buildings Co. (ABC) authorized builder created a unique metal storage unit with the dual function of a hangout spot and storage building in Lake Park, Ga. The building was designed to hold an antique collection of tractors and vehicles, while also serving as a weekend getaway.
Is a metal storage unit ever considered a hangout spot? It is, according to the building owner and architect, Keith Barrett, who says this two-in-one idea was inspired by his need to house his collection of around 20 two-cylinder John Deere Tractors and several collector vehicles. “A building was needed to house these toys and store parts,” he says. “It was also determined that a small part of the building would need to house a place to clean up, and also keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter. More importantly, it also provides a place to entertain friends when playing with, or working on, tractors or cars.”
Hahira, Ga.-based Altman + Barrett Architects designed the 5,000-square-foot, rustic-inspired building using ABC’s Terra Cotta-colored shadow panels for the wall panels and ABC Standing Seam II roof panels in Polar White to resemble an old barn. The 3-foot overhang on all sides contributes to the building’s classic look. Additionally, imitation attic doors with an X at the gables, downspouts and sectional garage doors were used to correspond with the rustic theme.
A pre-engineered metal building was selected for the efficient depth-to-span ratio of the rigid frame over a wood-framed truss system. “This allows for a cost-effective way to incorporate a mezzanine for parts storage, two bedrooms and a bathroom,” says Barrett, an architect with Altman + Barrett Architects. “Secondly, this metal building system provides a 25-foot bay system with 8-inch purlins, 4 feet on-center, which allows for a banded R-30 insulation system at the roof.”
Another positive of the metal building system is the skin. Barrett selected a standing seam metal roof and 3-inch Shadow Rib wall panels, which provide a great watertight solution. They also make an impressive appearance and are easy to maintain.
“The average person may not know the difference between a non-concealed fastener wall panel and a screw-down roof panel over a shadow rib wall panel and standing seam roof, but they do comment on how nice it looks over most metal buildings,” says Vinny Clark, estimator at Quillian Powell.
The 21.7 tons of metal material used to build the storage barn requires low maintenance. The cost effectiveness and low environmental impact helped create a functional, simple storage unit with curb appeal. Since the barn is in an isolated location, security is a factor. All of the window sills are 12 feet above the ground.
There were no real construction issues building it. “When you hire a qualified contractor, it helps eliminate most potential problems,” Barrett says. “Permitting was the big headache. This project was for a private storage building which would have been a piece of cake on agricultural property. However, this land was zoned commercial so the building had to be designed as a commercial building. This meant we had to meet all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) codes from parking, to an ADA-accessible bathroom complete with roll-in shower, and also the International Building Code, and all the red tape that goes along with it.”
Quillian Powell was awarded first place in the agricultural category of the 2014 ABC Excellence in Design Awards. The ABC Excellence in Design Awards recognizes builders and roofers for their innovation in design and metal systems construction.
Sidebar: Barrett Warehouse, Lake Park, Ga.
General contractor: Quillian Powell Construction Co. Inc., Valdosta, Ga.
Architect: Altman + Barrett Architects PC., Hahira, Ga.
Metal building system: American Buildings Co., Eufaula, Ala., www.americanbuildings.com
