Barndominiums continue to surge in popularity across the U.S. This hybrid living option particularly interests homeowners looking for a specific charm, open-plan spaces, and modern fixtures or amenities.
A barndominium can cost up to $350,000 and combines a barn’s look and feel with a home’s comfort and functionality. It is one of the best and most unique alternatives to traditional housing.
So, if you are intrigued by the idea of living in a hybrid like this, keep reading to find out if it is an option.
What Exactly Is a Barndominium?
A barndominium usually starts off as a barn that has been converted into a functional living or workspace. The name is fairly straightforward, combining barn and condominium. Most people refer to it as a brand.
Some condominiums are built from scratch using a pre-fabricated kit. These brands are made from metal. Whether you prefer a barn-start or a kit, your brand will likely feature the following:
- Open plan floors. These types of homes prioritize open interiors with only a few dividing walls. The idea is to create a loft-like feel.
- Durability. Barndos usually incorporate metal or steel frames. This is to ensure they stand up well against harsh weather.
- Rustic aesthetic. As mentioned above, barndos mix wood, metal, and other elements for a rustic look.
A barndomimium can be anything from a two-bedroom living space to a luxury property. This means you can create one to suit your preference and budget.
Why Are Barndominiums So Popular?
It is not clear where exactly the barndominium craze began. However, it is believed that the trend gained a lot of traction after Chip and Joanna Gaines referred to one of their 2016 Texas renovations as a barndominium.
Today, barndos are popular for many reasons. The outdoorsy feel of a barndo is attractive to many who dream about living away from the city.
These dwellings are also very customizable. Whether you start with an existing barn or a kit, you can create a unique space from scratch that suits your style and pocket. You can also use a barndo to work and live in the same space without feeling overcrowded.
Moreover, barndominiums are a lot more affordable than most traditional homes, especially when it comes to construction. Metal or steel frames reduce material costs, and the open floor plans mean fewer walls must be erected.
Barndos usually have a simple but effective design and layout. If they are made with pre-fabricated materials, they are easier to build compared to traditional houses.
Barndos are also known for resisting weather, pests, and even fire. This makes them a practical choice for your family.
Benefits of Living in a Barndominium
The benefits of living in a barndo include the aforementioned durability and spacious living. Another great benefit is that brands are known for having fantastic insulation properties, which will save you money.
The insulation used in metal buildings is great for maintaining indoor temperatures. This will reduce your heating and cooling costs throughout the year. If you live in a rural area, you will appreciate the self-sufficiency this offers you. Metal building materials are also recyclable, so you will be doing your part for the environment.
Barndominiums also have the potential for good resale value. Since the popularity of barndos continue to increase, you can likely sell yours for a high price if you want to.
What to Consider When Building a Barndo
If you want to build or buy a barndominium, there are several things you must consider. Your local city or town codes may prevent you from building it within its limits. This means that if you are set on living in a barn, you will have to build it further away, likely in a rural area.
If you need financing for a brand, it will potentially be harder to secure compared to a traditional mortgage.
It is also important to remember that brands differ from traditional homes because they are made of metal, not wood. So, when it rains or hails, the noise will be loud. Also, if you want to add hardwood in your barndo, it may be ruined by the sun if you install large windows.
You can protect your floors using blinds or UV-resistant window film, but this will cost you extra money.
Where to Build a Barndo
Barndos are very popular in Texas. This is mainly because of the availability of land and non-rigid zoning laws. Technically speaking, however, barndominiums can be built in just about any state. You may need extra insulation if you live in a very cold region.
What to Know About Barndos
There are some misconceptions when it comes to barndos, which may put you off from building or buying your own.
For instance, some believe living in a barndo means living in a barely-converted barn. As mentioned, many barndos start as barns but are fully converted into functional, beautiful living spaces.
Some are also built from scratch using high-quality materials. Either way, barndos offer everything a traditional house does. This includes kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, patios, multiple levels, etc.
Many people also believe that a barndominium means cheap construction. This is simply not true, considering that owners put a lot of effort and money into building the perfect brand. This includes high-end materials and modern designs.
Should You Build or Buy a Barndominium?
Ultimately, the choice is up to you. If you want a beautiful living space that brings the charm and the practicality, a barndo can work for you. If you want to build or buy something you can customize from start to finish, a barndo is a good option.
Whether you build or buy is also up to you. It depends on how much work you want to put into it. Barndomimiums will continue to grow as a trend in the U.S. If you decide to create your own brand, you have something that you can live and work in. Plus, if you decide to sell, you can potentially do so for a higher price.
So, if you are looking for something different that still holds a lot of value, a barndominium may just be the refreshing change you need.