Barndominium House Plans: A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Rustic Living
Barndominium House Plans: A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Rustic Living
Blog Article
If you're searching for a home that combines the charm of rustic barn living with the convenience of modern design, look no further than Barndominium house plans. Also known as "Barndos", these stylish and versatile homes have skyrocketed in popularity due to their affordability, open floor concepts, and ease of customization.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore what Barndominiums are, their unique benefits, popular design styles, floor plan options, cost insights, and everything else you need to know to design your dream Barndo.
What Is a Barndominium?
A Barndominium is a type of building that merges a traditional barn structure with the features and functionality of a residential home. Originally developed in rural areas to combine a living space with a working space (like a garage or workshop), Barndominiums have evolved into full-fledged custom homes known for:
Large, open living areas
High ceilings
Rustic aesthetics with modern finishes
Durable metal or wood frames
Barndominiums are often built using steel or timber frames, and they are incredibly versatile—serving as family homes, vacation rentals, guest houses, or even commercial-residential hybrids.
Why Are Barndominiums So Popular?
Barndominiums have exploded in popularity—and for good reason. Here's why so many people are opting for this style of home:
⭐ Cost-Effective Construction
Barndos generally cost less to build than traditional houses, especially if you opt for a pre-fabricated kit or build on your own land.
⭐ Open Floor Plans
Their spacious layouts are perfect for those who love large, open-concept spaces with fewer interior walls and plenty of flexibility.
⭐ Fast Build Times
Thanks to simpler structural designs, many Barndominiums can be built in a fraction of the time it takes to complete a traditional brick-and-mortar house.
⭐ Customizable Designs
You can personalize everything—from the exterior materials and rooflines to the interior layout, flooring, and cabinetry.
⭐ Energy Efficiency
With proper insulation and planning, Barndos can be highly energy-efficient, keeping utility bills lower over time.
Common Features of Barndominium House Plans
Barndominium designs can vary, but here are some of the most popular and functional features to consider:
Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams
Metal siding and roofing
Large front and back porches
Lofts or second-floor balconies
Combined garage or workshop space
Spacious kitchens with islands
Sliding barn-style interior doors
These features enhance both the aesthetic appeal and practical functionality of Barndos.
Top Barndominium Design Styles
Choosing a style that fits your lifestyle and taste is key. Here are the top design trends in Barndominium house plans:
???? Rustic Farmhouse Style
Classic wood elements, neutral color palettes, and warm finishes. Ideal for countryside settings.
???? Modern Industrial Style
Steel beams, concrete floors, minimalist design, and large glass windows.
???? Scandinavian Style
Bright interiors, clean lines, and functional design with a focus on natural light and minimalism.
???? Traditional Country Style
Wood siding, gabled roofs, wraparound porches, and cozy interiors.
???? Contemporary Chic
Sleek finishes, smart layouts, and luxurious materials paired with bold architectural lines.
Popular Barndominium House Plan Layouts
Barndominiums come in many layouts to suit different needs. Here are some of the most popular floor plan types:
???? 1. Two-Bedroom Starter Plan
Perfect for couples or small families
Open-concept kitchen and living room
Attached garage or shop
One or two bathrooms
???? 2. Family-Sized Four-Bedroom Plan
Designed for growing families
Master suite with walk-in closet and en-suite
Three additional bedrooms
Spacious utility and laundry area
Central living area with dining and kitchen space
???? 3. Loft-Style Barndo
Large open living area
Kitchen and bath on the ground floor
Bedroom or office loft upstairs
Great for singles, couples, or vacation rentals
???? 4. Multi-Use Hybrid Plan
One side as a residence, other side as workshop or business space
Ideal for entrepreneurs, artists, and mechanics
Can include office, garage, or showroom space
Barndominium Floor Plan Sizes
Barndos can be built in various sizes. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
| Size (sq. ft.) | Best For |
|---|---|
| 800–1,200 | Small families, couples |
| 1,200–2,000 | Mid-size families |
| 2,000–3,000+ | Large families or luxury |
Remember, your ideal floor plan size should reflect your family size, lifestyle, and future growth.
How Much Does a Barndominium Cost to Build?
Barndominium construction costs vary depending on materials, location, finishes, and size. However, here’s a general breakdown:
???? Estimated Costs (per square foot):
Shell Only (Frame + Exterior): £30–£60
Interior Build (Plumbing, Wiring, Walls): £50–£80
Finishes (Flooring, Fixtures, Cabinets): £20–£40
Total Average Cost: £100–£180 per sq. ft.
So, a 2,000 sq. ft. Barndominium could cost around £200,000–£360,000, depending on your design and finish choices.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Barndominium?
Yes. Like any residential construction project in the UK (and most other countries), you’ll need full planning permission. Here's what you should prepare:
Site location plan
Architectural drawings or blueprints
Structural engineer's report (if needed)
Design and access statement
Work with a local architect or planning consultant to ensure you meet all regulations.
Financing Options for Barndominium Builds
Although Barndominiums are unique, they can still be financed using common home-building loans:
???? Types of Financing Available:
Self-Build Mortgages – Release funds in phases as you build
Construction Loans – Short-term loans until the build is complete
Home Equity Loans – If you own another property
Cash or Savings – Ideal for those who want to avoid debt
Speak with a lender familiar with non-traditional or custom homes to ensure smooth approval.
Essential Tips for Designing a Barndominium
Here are some tips to make your Barndominium project a success:
Plan your layout around how you live daily.
Maximize natural light with plenty of windows.
Think long-term: include extra rooms or flexible spaces.
Keep an eye on your budget—design choices can add up fast.
Consult professionals with Barndominium experience.
Pros and Cons of Barndominium House Plans
✅ Pros:
Affordable
Stylish and modern
Durable materials
Quick build time
Easy to expand
❌ Cons:
May require custom construction expertise
Financing can be more complex
Planning permission not always guaranteed
Some designs might lack curb appeal for resale
Conclusion: Should You Build a Barndominium?
If you’re looking for a modern, customizable, and budget-friendly home, then a Barndominium may be the perfect choice. With flexible floor plans, unique design potential, and lower construction costs, Barndos offer a fantastic alternative to traditional housing.
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