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Michael Rahal

Owner

(The company name is only visible to registered members)

Fairview, TN
United States

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Personal information

Interests

Edit trains border collies for sheep herding, trains sheep guard dogs to guard the flocks

Professional experience

to present

(Only visible to registered members)

Educational background

Jan 1988 - Jan 1992

University of Virginia
Architecture, MA
Jan 1978 - Jan 1982

University of Florida
Design, BA

Languages

English

About me

A hands-on creator and designer since childhood, Michael Rahal graduated with his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Florida in 1982. He served with several major firms in Florida and New Jersey before enrolling in the Master of Architecture program at the University of Virginia. He received his Master's degree in 1992 and returned to Florida, where he founded Rahal Design. Over the subsequent decades, he worked on numerous design projects in the retail as well as commercial spheres, both as an independent designer and through several major East Coast and Midwest firms. Over the years, Michael Rahal developed a focus on sustainable building practices, and, by the time he founded Michael Rahal Design Studio in 2007, he had developed a reputation for ecologically responsible design expertise.

In 2011, Michael Rahal decided to combine his creative and design expertise with a deeply held but long neglected passion for farming. He founded Rahal Farms in central Tennessee's Fernvale Valley, committing himself and his farm's practices to responsible stewardship of land and livestock. The farm practices land- and animal-friendly methods, such as rotational grazing, in which multiple species share a pasture and interact in a way that minimizes waste and erosion. Animals, such as the farm's free-range, heritage-breed hens, are managed with compassion and understanding of each species' unique needs. And finally, the community is included in this commitment to healthy practices. The farm's Center for Culinary Sustainability, currently in development, will partner with the Kitchen at Rahal Farms to provide educational programs regarding responsible food choices and the impact of personal culinary practices.

Rahal Farms continues to grow under the leadership of founder Michael Rahal, who brings his experience to bear on the farm's design. Ultimately, the farm will feature an Alpine-inspired village square surrounding appealing and functional greenhouses, animal shelters, dairy buildings, and other farm structures. Free-range eggs are currently available, with bakery, creamery, produce, and meat products to come.