Facilities

The Big Red Barn is available for graduate student organizations, university departments, or private individuals for many types of events. We can accommodate small meetings, lectures, parties, and conferences.

History

The Big Red Barn was built in the 1870s as the carriage house for the home of Cornell’s first president, Andrew Dickson White. The Barn, one of the oldest structures on campus, was converted to a social center by Cornell alumni in the 1950s and underwent a complete renovation in 1991. Antiques and farm implements recollect the building’s past, while new additions remain faithful to its rustic atmosphere.

Setting

The spacious main portion of the building includes a stunning, but cozy, mezzanine.  Tables and chairs cluster around a large grass pellet stove creating a warm setting for events. Upstairs mezzanine has lounge furniture for small group gatherings and leisurely study.   The sunlit "greenhouse" has additional seating and access to the outdoor patio. It can be closed off for special functions.

In warm weather, a brick patio, barbeque pit, and outdoor tables surrounded by gardens are available. The facility is handicapped accessible.

Capacity

The Big Red Barn Graduate & Professional Student Center can accommodate up to 165 people inside with an extra 85 people using the outdoor areas in the spring and summer. The Main space can accommodate up to 115 with the upstairs and the Green House area can accommodate 50 people.

Location

The Big Red Barn is located behind the A.D. White House and next to Roberts Hall.