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Stephanie Stevens, owner of Bell Gate Farm, had two main missions since inheriting the historic property three years ago. First and foremost, Stevens strives to maintain the authenticity of the working farm, and second, to create an opportunity for the community to also enjoy this gem. SAGE Design-Build, Inc. was chosen as the General Contractor for the renovation project.

Today - with enough wood planks to fill a football field, a historic icon has been revitalized and opened its doors for business in the fall of 2016. SAGE Design-Build, Inc. completed the barn restoration project at Bell Gate Farm and now offers a new perspective on bringing barn restorations to the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

One of most unique aspects of this project was the ability to save, reuse and repurpose materials. For example, the slate roof from the Old Milk House was reused on the new timber frame entrance that was built for a new structure, now housing the original bell. An existing door that included the original forged iron strap hinges was also used. Keeping the authenticity and character of the barn alive with each step in the construction process played an integral part of this renovation project.

SAGE’s president Joe Landrigan, a 25-year veteran of construction management and design adds that sometimes it’s more about how to use modern materials in ways that make them look like they’ve been there from the beginning. A great example of this is the interior wood siding at Bell Gate Farm.

The siding is a relatively simple pine material that was left partially planed (skip planed) to create a rough look. It is then detailed and fastened using a tongue and groove that created a natural looking gap and lastly, stained using three shades of the same color stain and randomly installed throughout.

Additionally, important is how well the barn was transformed into a wedding and special event center, that seamlessly included a transitional design theme. SAGE provided and implemented the latest technology such as LED lighting, an integrated sound system, a state of the art HVAC system, and a full service commercial kitchen. Energy efficiencies provided as part of the project included closed cell spray foam wall and roof insulation, and new windows and doors.