From Coop to Creative Hub: The Lago Luna Metal Art Studio Story
A Virginia chicken house finds new life as a vibrant art studio and gallery.
In the heart of Buffalo Junction, Virginia, a historic chicken house stood silent, a relic of a bygone era. But artist-craftsman Marc Staples saw not a forgotten structure, but a canvas for transformation. With a vision and a passion for metalwork, in 2023 he embarked on a journey to breathe new life into this rustic landmark, creating the Lago Luna Metal Art Studio.
Built in 1939, the chicken house bore the marks of time, including a dramatic encounter with a transfer truck that knocked it off its foundation. Undeterred by the challenges of working with a structure that boasted "not a single straight angle," Marc spent five months lovingly restoring and repurposing the building.
Rotting siding was replaced, a new metal roof gleamed in the sunlight, and whimsical wings were added, hinting at the creativity within. A fresh coat of barn-red paint transformed the exterior, evoking the charm of an old country store.
Inside, the space was reborn as a vibrant studio and gallery. Visitors can now explore Marc's handcrafted metal sculptures, garden ornaments, and custom landscape features. Live demonstrations offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the artist's process, with the roar of the forge and the dance of fire and metal. An observation window even allows for a safe and up-close view of the welding magic. For those inspired to create their own metal masterpieces, the studio also offers youth workshops.
Nestled amidst a garden center, farm supply store, and plant nursery, Lago Luna Metal Art Studio has become a destination for art lovers and curious travelers alike. The studio's idyllic setting, surrounded by lush greenery and a working farm, adds to its allure.
Marc Staples has not simply renovated a building; he has created a space where art, history, and community intersect. Lago Luna Metal Art Studio stands as a testament to the power of creativity and a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.
Shop Different... Stop by the Lago Luna Studio and Gallery in Buffalo Junction, Virginia, or visit our website at LagoLuna.com
Find out more about the studio: Lago Luna Metal Art Studio
Lago Luna Metal Art Studio
6150 Highway 58
Buffalo Junction, Virginia
