’Grand Designs’ meets the farming industry today, as Yorkshire based Holme Farmed Venison unveils the first ever ’roundhouse’ building for a deer herd.
The building has won major awards for helping farmers to rear animals ethically, as well as for its innovative, distinctive and elegant round design.
The deer roundhouse is the first of its kind and allows animals kept under its circular roof to maintain their herd instinct - by living in groups and being able to see other deer around them. These factors combine to create a calm, stress free environment for the deer.
The majority of modern livestock buildings are constructed to house the maximum possible number of animals for the least cost, rather than considering the welfare of the animal first. The Roundhouse concept however, was created by keeping the animal and its herd instinct at the centre of the design process.
Nigel Sampson from Holme Farmed Venison, comments: "Deer are natural herd animals and whether they are farmed or out in the wild, they never lose this instinct.
He continues: "They love to form close family groups and are at their happiest when they can see everything around them. We’ve seen a definite change since they’ve gone into the roundhouse - their behaviour is so relaxed and content. It really mirrors their habits out at pasture in the summer months. Animal welfare is at the heart of what we do and this building is a testament to that."
Nigel farms his red deer naturally; they are reared on the farm’s grass pastures in summer, and now in the roundhouse in winter, guaranteeing a beautifully flavoured, lean and tender red meat. Farmed venison assures quality and consistency all year round.
The award winning company also provides a door to door delivery service nationwide.
