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Critter Barn
Zeeland, MI
Zeeland
,
Michigan
Designing a Farm Experience Accessible to All
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Project Details
Client
Critter Barn
Scale
36 acres
Completion
2023
Awards
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“By combining the benefits of Universal Design at our new farm, along with a resource room, sidewalks everywhere, adaptive equipment, and inclusive playground equipment, Critter Barn is creating a first-of-its-kind facility,” said Mary Rottschafer, former Executive Director.
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Critter Barn is an educational farm in Zeeland, MI dedicated to teaching about farming and agriculture while inspiring people of all ages, and all abilities, through the miracles in nature found at the farm. The farm serves as a popular destination for local families and school groups who come to enjoy the many animals from ducklings, lambs, and kittens, to rabbits, goats, and cows. Since 2014, the Barn’s site and building plans have included accessibility as a high priority in order to reach all individuals no matter their background or ability.
During a recent expansion project, Critter Barn conducted research with disability advocate groups and the community. They hired Progressive Companies to complete a Universal Design (UD) assessment and pursue certification through the Global Universal Design Commission—ultimately achieving silver-level certification. The new 36-acre, $10 million build-out includes a “golden mile” of extra-wide sidewalks and hallways, zero-threshold entries, barrier-free restrooms, doors without knobs, simple signage, and full-height windows to animal displays. They’ve also provided adaptive equipment to help people navigate the site more easily. Future phases will see the addition of an accessible treehouse and playground and sensory resource room in the welcome center.
