Uses for timber framed barn in a city?

What do you do with an old barn in a city? I"m looking for Permaculture enthusiasts in Indianapolis INDIANA. I have an offer on 1.92 Acres with 5BR, 4BAth home, 60 x 35' Barn, 40 x 26 Carriage house, and 12 x 16.5 Workshop. Of course everything needs work. So I am seeking partners, $mall business owners who may need more space to expand. Long range goal is to host a permaculture design course. Zoned D4 which does not allow for large animals or equipment but does allow 'group home'. What can you do with an old barn with 6.5 foot tall stalls? and a hay loft? A carriage house with an apartment where zoning only allows you one residence? A dug well where the city says you have to use city water and sewer?

Hi Joe,

If the Barn and Carriage house are a true asset I'm sure you can put them to use with the different plans you mentioned. If they need a lot of work to get in shape or just maintain, then selling them could be an option. We restore vintage architecture, particularly barns and ag-industrial buildings.

Do you know when you structures were built, are they a sawn frame or hand hewn?

You may be able, if the type is correct, to sell one for the money to repair the other.

Sponsoring a restoration workshop is another possibility.

Good Luck, and give a "call out," should you have more questions.

Regards,

jay

I assume sawn would be smooth compared to hand hewn? I'll post pics when I get them.