11 Ideas for Designing the Inside of Your Barndominium | NSB (2024)

Barndominiums, a blend of barn and condominium, are a unique new living style. They’re surging in popularity due to their versatile living spaces that combine rustic charm with modern amenities. Barndominiums can be a blank canvas of ample opportunities for you to embrace your creative design. The interior of your barndominium can easily be crafted to reflect your personality and emphasize the functionality of each space.

Unique ways to embrace the key features of a barndominium interior

Barndominiums have some key features and options that set them apart:

  • Open concept layout — A barndominium allows you to embrace the spaciousness of an open concept layout. It integrates the kitchen, dining area and living space. This design can help foster a sense of connectivity and allow for easy flow between different areas of your home.
  • Exposed beams and vaulted ceilings — Barndominiums allow you to highlight the barn-inspired aesthetic by leaving the beams exposed and choosing vaulted ceilings with a gambrel roof. This design element adds visual interest and can boost the rustic charm of the interior of your home.
  • Mix of materials — A barndominium allows you to play with a mix of materials like metal siding, concrete or wood floors, salvaged wood accents, and even exposed brick or stone walls. Blending materials can add depth and character to fully embrace your aesthetic preferences.
  • Large windows or natural light — You can maximize the use of natural light or even showcase scenic views with large windows and glass doors. This helps brighten up your space and also gives the impression of bringing the outdoors inside, helping create an energizing connection with nature.
  • Functional kitchen — Take advantage of the open layout and create a seamlessly flowing and functional kitchen. Bring in modern appliances and ample storage and choose a spacious island or breakfast bar. You can consider open shelving or creative light fixtures. For another unique accent, consider mixing white cabinetry with wooden accents for an ideal contemporary yet rustic look.
  • Cozy living areas — Open spaces don’t have to feel vast and empty. You can create an inviting and cozy living area with comfortable seating. Perhaps consider an electric fireplace to give it an extra-special rustic feel. Decorate with soft textiles in earthy or jewel tones. For furniture, consider incorporating multifunctional furniture like ottomans with hidden storage. These pieces can help maximize your space efficiency.
  • Versatile loft space — A dominant feature of a barndominium is the loft provided by the high ceilings. You can use the loft for additional entertainment space like a game or movie room, an extra bedroom for guests, or even additional but out-of-the-way storage areas. You could also create a cozy reading nook or a home office to make the most of the space.
  • Spa-like bathroom — Just because it’s called a barndominium doesn’t mean the bathroom has to be a stall. Create the spa-like bathroom retreat of your dreams. Bring in a luxurious shower, a giant clawed soaking tub or a sleek vanity. You could incorporate natural stone or tile accents, as well as elements of nature like indoor greenery to help create a tranquil ambiance.
  • Practical storage solutions — With the open layout, you’ll have plenty of space and opportunity for practical and creative storage space. Embrace custom built-in storage solutions or take advantage of the open concept and utilize open shelving. Get creative with all of your wall space and opt for hanging pots, pans and utensils in the kitchen for a more industrial feel. To embrace the rustic side more, you could consider installing barn doors or sliding doors to maximize space.
  • Creative lighting and decor — Embrace the big windows and natural light and continue lighting with creative lighting fixtures. Go for a statement chandelier or pendant lights. You could include contemporary and rustic decor elements like vintage finds or thrifted furniture. Bringing in vintage furniture or decorative items can help create a new chapter in their life by continuing to tell their story. Repurposing furniture or barn doors also helps boost sustainability and is an eco-friendly approach.
  • Accents — To bring the outdoors inside, opt to decorate with indoor greenery like potted plants, succulents, or even an indoor herb garden in the kitchen. Create an accent wall to set a space apart by using reclaimed wood, shiplap, faux brick or decorative wallpaper. These small interior decorating details help add visual interest and texture to your barndominium and showcase your aesthetic preferences.

Whether you’re drawn to the creative design possibilities, the practical advantages or lifestyle aspects, living in a barndominium can be a compelling choice for homeowners who are looking for a distinct and fulfilling living experience.

What does a barndominium cost?

The cost of a barndominium can vary based on a variety of factors, including:

  • Location — Your location plays a crucial role in determining your overall cost. Construction costs can vary from region to region. These differences can be because of labor rates, building codes or land prices.
  • Size and design — The size of your barndominium, which is measured in square footage, will impact your cost. The design complexity will also factor into your cost. A larger barndominium with a lot of custom features will likely cost more to build.
  • Materials — The choice of materials for your interior and exterior will also influence your cost. It’s essential that you don’t cut corners or use inferior-quality materials. Saving a few dollars upfront can cost you in repairs and damage in the long run. Common materials used include steel for the exterior walls, wood for the interior finishes, and a variety of options for roofing like metal or asphalt shingles.
  • Foundation — The foundation is an essential component of any building construction. The type of foundation you need for your barndominium will have a direct effect on your cost. A more complex foundation can be more expensive.
  • Utilities — Modern comforts require costs. Getting connected to water, sewer, gas and electricity all have expenses that should be factored in. Even going off-grid comes with costs like solar panels or water wells.
  • Interior finishes — The cost of interior finishes like flooring, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, lighting fixtures and plumbing fixtures will vary based on how many you need and what style you choose.
  • Permits and fees — It’s crucial to get all necessary building permits and pay required fees before you begin construction. If you don’t meet these requirements, it could delay construction or cost you even more in fines.
  • Labor — Labor for skilled tradespeople such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians will all contribute to your overall cost. Their rates can vary depending on your region and the complexity of your project.
  • Amenities — Additional amenities to make your barndominium meet your needs and dreams will also increase your overall cost.

Before jumping into construction, it’s important to have a detailed budget in mind for your barndominium. After you know your budget and what you’re looking for, get in contact with several reputable suppliers to get quotes. Quotes will help you find the best supplier to work with for your specific project without sacrificing quality.

A barndominium can be a more affordable way to become a homeowner. It can also be an energy-efficient and eco-friendly choice. Restoring or constructing a barndominium gives you creative freedom and unique design possibilities to create your dream home.

National Steel Buildings can make all the difference in the construction or renovation of your barndominium

At National Steel Buildings, we focus on quality materials, unmatched expertise and dedicated customer service. We are a certified Varco Pruden Builder. This means we have been through a strict approval process to represent Varco Pruden, the second-largest metal manufacturer in the United States. Our certification can help ensure that your barndominium benefits from top-tier materials and construction practices. We can provide you with the steel structures and expertise you need to bring your vision to life. With our reliable and experienced team by your side, you can create a barndominium that combines the charm of rustic living with the durability and efficiency of steel construction.

Contact our team today for more information about our steel building options and pricing.

11 Ideas for Designing the Inside of Your Barndominium | NSB (2024)

FAQs

How to design the interior of a barndominium? ›

Decorate with items that reflect the barn-inspired theme, such as antique farm tools, repurposed barn doors as wall art, vintage signs, and large-scale artworks that match the style of the space. Add personal touches that make the space feel like home.

How to make a barndominium look more like a house? ›

Adding a porch or deck is a great way to make your Barndominium look more like a house. Not only will it give you some extra space to relax and enjoy the outdoors, but it will also add some curb appeal. A porch or deck can also be a great place to host gatherings or cookouts with friends and family.

What do I wish I knew before building a barndominium? ›

Here are the most important things to know about building a barndominium.
  • Obtain a permit for your project. Photo by Bridger Steel, Inc. ...
  • Test the paint. Photo by Justin Doyle Homes. ...
  • Prepare for surprise costs. ...
  • Plan for electrical work. ...
  • Choose your windows and doors wisely. ...
  • Add insulation—it's important.
Mar 14, 2022

How long does it take to build a 3,000 sq ft barndominium? ›

Building Timeline Overview

For a DIY-inclined owner with sufficient time and adequate skillset, constructing a basic 3000 sq ft barndominium yourself using pre-fabricated steel building components could conceivably only require around 5 months from breaking ground to securing an occupancy permit.

What is a barndominium interior? ›

The perfect mix of space for living and recreation, the barndominium is a barn home that doubles as a home and workspace. While some people use part of their space as a workshop or garage, others use the space for storage or turn it into a home office.

How thick are barndominium interior walls? ›

--Design tips for laying out your floor plan

To be on the safe side, assume 5 inches for interior walls. Exterior walls for a barndominium can range from 5 inches to 20 inches depending on building style. If you have a 40×40 living area and 12-inch thick walls, your interior space is 38×38.

What is the downside to a barndominium? ›

Financing for a Barndominium Can Be Difficult To Acquire

One of the most significant drawbacks of purchasing a Barndominum instead of a traditional house is how difficult it can be to acquire financing for this type of home. If you have enough cash to front this kind of project, then that's great!

Are barndominiums a bad investment? ›

If you are purely looking for a quick resale investment, a Barndominium may not be your best option. But, if you are hoping to build a long-term home for yourself or to invest by renting out your Barndominium, a Barndominium could be an excellent choice and long-term investment.

How much would it cost to build a 5000 sq ft barndominium? ›

Average cost to build a barndominium
Square feetAverage cost to build*
3,000$195,000 – $480,000
3,500$227,500 – $560,000
4,000$260,000 – $640,000
5,000$325,000 – $800,000
6 more rows
Oct 13, 2023

Are barndominiums hard to insure? ›

Insuring a barndominium does require a specialized approach due to its unique characteristics, but don't let that keep you from following your plan of building your dream Barndominium because finding an insurance company that deals in barndominiums isn't all that difficult, it's typically a google search away like ...

What is a shouse? ›

The word “shouse” comes from two words, shop and house. A shouse is essentially a personal workshop and/or storage space that's connected to a house. It's often situated on a piece of land used for fishing, hunting, or a different recreational activity.

What architectural style is a barndominium? ›

Barndominium house plans are country home designs with a strong influence of barn styling. Differing from the Farmhouse style trend, Barndominium home designs often feature a gambrel roof, open concept floor plan, and a rustic aesthetic reminiscent of repurposed pole barns converted into living spaces.

What size is the living room in a barndominium? ›

A sizable barndominium will frequently have massive living rooms that are 30×25 feet or larger. Compact barndominiums are totally different. If you look at the floorplan of a 20 feet by 30 feet barndominium, it may have one to two bedrooms, a laundry area, a kitchen, a family room, a single bathroom and a closet.

Can you customize a barndominium? ›

Worldwide Steel barndominiums can be designed however you'd like, with open-concept living room that can be finished to your exact specifications. That means you can truly design the house plans of your dreams and at a reduced average cost compared to traditional home building and construction.

What makes a barndominium cheaper to build? ›

Barndominiums tend to shine in terms of cost-effectiveness due to their unique design and construction. The use of metal for the frame and exterior often translates to lower material costs compared to the cost for traditional wood-framed houses.

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