Originally constructed in 1907 on the historic White Grass Ranch—an inholding within Grand Teton National Park—the White Grass Barn is one of Wyoming’s most significant examples of early ranch architecture. Ward + Blake Architects was commissioned to restore and reconstruct this historic landmark, preserving its architectural legacy while giving it new life as part of a private ranch in Jackson Hole.

The barn’s remarkable history spans more than a century. Originally built with a traditional gambrel roof, the structure underwent several alterations throughout its working life, including a memorable attempt by a former owner to remove heavy winter snow with dynamite—successfully removing both the snow and the roof. The replacement gable roof and subsequent additions dramatically altered the building’s original proportions, diminishing much of its historic character.

When the National Park Service acquired the White Grass Ranch, the barn was carefully dismantled and offered for relocation through a sealed bid process. Recognizing the opportunity to preserve an important piece of Wyoming’s ranching heritage, the new owners partnered with Ward + Blake Architects to faithfully reconstruct the barn while restoring its original architectural integrity.

Every log was meticulously photographed, numbered, cataloged, and documented during disassembly, allowing the design team to reconstruct the building with extraordinary accuracy. Historic photographs, archival research from the Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum, and oral histories from longtime Jackson residents provided invaluable insight into the barn’s original appearance and construction.

The restoration balanced historic preservation with modern structural performance. A new reinforced concrete foundation was concealed beneath locally sourced stone veneer, while deteriorated lower log courses were replaced using hand-selected timbers that were charred and stained to blend seamlessly with the original weathered wood. Reclaimed barn siding was incorporated into the reconstructed gable walls, preserving the authentic material character of the historic structure.

One of the project’s defining achievements was recreating the original gambrel roof, which had been lost decades earlier. Using historic photographs and traditional barn construction techniques, Ward + Blake Architects restored the barn’s iconic roofline, returning the building to its original proportions and silhouette. Custom-forged iron hinges and hardware, crafted by a local metal artisan, faithfully replicate the original details and celebrate Wyoming’s tradition of skilled craftsmanship.

The relocation of the barn required careful site planning and environmental stewardship. Working within the constraints of the Teton County Comprehensive Plan, the project utilized a 70% conservation easement across the 35-acre property, preserving sensitive wildlife habitat while allowing the historic structures to be thoughtfully integrated into the landscape. The barn was positioned on a previously disturbed rock outcropping near the Snake River corridor, minimizing environmental impact while preserving mature vegetation and expansive views of the Teton Range.

Today, the restored White Grass Barn stands as both a functional ranch structure and a lasting tribute to Wyoming’s agricultural heritage. The project reflects Ward + Blake Architects’ expertise in historic preservation architecture, adaptive reuse, and traditional timber construction, demonstrating how thoughtful restoration can honor the past while ensuring these irreplaceable buildings endure for future generations.

Location

Jackson, Wyoming

Project Size

1,365 sq. ft. (Guest House)

1,500 sq. ft. (Barn)

awards

2003 Wyoming Chapter of the American Institute of Architects - Award of Citation

1999 Western Mountain Region, American Institue of Architects - Merit Award