Roundhouse®
A Circular Barn for Maximum Efficiency
The Roundhouse® is an innovative barn concept where comfort and efficiency meet. The unique circular shape ensures ease of work, optimal overview, and a calm living environment for the animals.
Combined with modern technology and flexible layout options, this concept offers a future-oriented solution for farmers aiming for a sustainable, animal-friendly, and cost-efficient barn.
The design of the Roundhouse® is based on one central idea: safe and efficient handling of bulls. This principle is reflected in every aspect of the barn, from layout to execution.
The many feeding spaces and clear lines of sight create calmness among the animals while the farmer maintains optimal control. The Roundhouse® is the perfect solution for fattening bulls or housing suckler cows.
Thanks to three available diameters, there is always a suitable option:
- 22 meters (compact and efficient)
- 30 meters (standard, approx. 718 m² floor area)
- 45 meters (maximum capacity and scalability)
At the center of the barn is a practical crowd pen with direct access to the outside. From this position, one person can safely and efficiently guide animals to the integrated handling system or loading area. This improves both usability and safety for humans and animals.
The crowd pen is also used to temporarily hold animals centrally, allowing manure removal to be performed safely and efficiently without disturbing the herd.
For the different sizes, standard layouts are available, which can be customized according to the farmer’s preferences. The circular space can be flexibly divided into multiple segments, tailored to specific business goals.
This creates a barn concept that grows with the business and is ready for the future.
- Safe and comfortable working, every day
- Exceptional for animal welfare: calm, space, and well-being
- A natural eye-catcher in the landscape, open to view from the inside
The galvanized steel structure consists of a central column to which eight truss frames are connected, forming a perfect circle.
The structure is covered with a strong, PVC-coated membrane that is tightly tensioned. The roof includes an open ridge, contributing to effective air circulation inside the barn.
The open structure and flowing roof, inspired by textile architecture, provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance from all sides, allowing the barn to integrate seamlessly into its surroundings.
The rainwater drainage system is fully integrated into the design. Water is collected on the roof membrane and discharged through the columns. This prevents dripping into the feed areas and bedding and also makes it possible to collect water for reuse.
The entire Roundhouse® structure, including the roof, is assembled at ground level. The structure is then lifted using the central column, with the outer columns folding inward.
This construction method minimizes risks associated with working at height.
The smooth circular shape gives the Roundhouse® a natural and attractive appearance. The carefully chosen color of the roof membrane ensures the structure blends into its surroundings.
The open character of the structure allows passersby and visitors to see what is happening inside the barn up close. This makes the Roundhouse® a true eye-catcher in its surroundings.
The open structure allows visitors and customers to see inside the barn, making the Roundhouse® a true visual highlight.
It is also possible to add a visitor platform or observation tower. Additional facilities, such as a restaurant, shop, studio, or meeting space, can be integrated—ID Agro is happy to advise.
Additional Applications of the Roundhouse®
In addition to beef cattle, the Roundhouse® is also highly suitable for dairy cattle and other animal types. Thanks to its flexible layout and open character, the barn can easily be adapted to various livestock applications.
The round, organic shape allows the Roundhouse® to blend naturally into the landscape. The result is a modern, multifunctional building.
The Roundhouse® is therefore not only used in agriculture, but also, for example, as a covered playground on campsites.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Roundhouse® is a circular barn in which animal comfort and labor efficiency are central. The central handling area, logical routing, and natural ventilation create calmness in the herd and optimal overview for the farmer.
The combination of shape, technology, and layout makes this concept both efficient and animal-friendly.
The circular shape is based on one principle: centralizing animal handling. The handling system is located in the center, with pens arranged around it. This results in short walking distances, less stress for animals, and maximum control. The feeding alley on the outside provides a large number of feeding spaces.
Originally developed for beef cattle (bulls and suckler cows), the Roundhouse® is now also used for young stock and dairy cattle. The largest version (45 meters) is particularly suitable for dairy farming.
It is also used for sheep, pigs, and horses.
The Roundhouse® is available in three standard diameters:
- 22 meters
- 30 meters (approx. 718 m²)
- 45 meters
This provides a suitable solution for both medium-sized and large-scale farms.
Capacity depends on the selected diameter and animal category. A Roundhouse® 30 can accommodate approximately 130–140 adult bulls. Final layout depends on welfare standards and farm objectives.
A Roundhouse® 30 has eight pens connected to a central crowd pen. This forms part of the so-called keyhole in the center, where the integrated handling system is located. The rest of the layout is flexible, but the central handling area is always part of the concept.
No. Cattle experience cold differently than humans and remain comfortable down to approximately -5°C, as long as they are dry and protected from drafts. In the Roundhouse®, wind at animal level is minimal. The dry straw bedding and natural airflow ensure a comfortable climate year-round.
Due to the circular shape, wind direction has little impact. Air flows inward, follows the roof membrane, and exits through the open ridge. This natural ventilation (Venturi effect) ensures fresh air without drafts.
No. The roof membrane includes an integrated gutter system. Rainwater is discharged through the columns and drained underground, keeping feed and bedding dry.
Yes, in two ways:
- By connecting multiple Roundhouses®
- By adding an extension (Add-On), such as a covered feeding area or outdoor space
This makes the concept scalable and future-proof.
Although primarily developed for livestock farming, it is also used for milking carousels and other agricultural purposes. Due to its open span, alternative uses such as event locations or playgrounds are also possible.
The standard overhang is 2.25 meters, but it can be extended up to 4.5 meters.
Our Roundhouse® projects
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Get in touch with one of our sales representatives at +31 (0)572-371404 or by email at info@idagro.nl.
With our many years of experience, we are happy to assist you further!