Chip and Joanna Gaines, famous for their TV show Fixer Upper and Magnolia experience in Waco, Texas, introduced a unique housing trend known as the barndominium. In 2016, the Gaineses transformed an old horse barn in Lacy Lakeview, Texas, into a stylish living space in the modern farmhouse style, now operating as an AirBNB. The term “barndominium” stuck, and these rustic-chic homes have since gained popularity for their affordability, quick construction, and resilience to natural disasters.
A barndominium is a large, versatile dwelling resembling a barn, typically divided with living quarters on the upper levels and workspace or multipurpose areas on the ground level. Different experts offer various definitions of the barndominium concept, but the trend has evolved to blend country, farmhouse, and modern design elements.
Key features of barndominiums include open floor plans, high ceilings, large windows, and flexibility in interior layout due to free-span trusses. These homes appeal to those seeking rustic charm with modern amenities and offer an alternative, affordable housing option for young buyers.
In rural areas where owners typically have multiple vehicles, large multibay garages are a common feature in homes that include attached workspaces. These properties are often found in areas with wide open spaces where larger trucks and cars are prevalent. Barndominiums typically have simple designs made with either metal or wood frames. Steel framework is usually preferred over wood due to its durability, unique look, cost-effectiveness, and quicker construction time.
The cost of a barndominium varies depending on location, materials, and contractor chosen. A basic metal prefab barndo kit can start at around $16,000, not including finishings or appliances. The average cost per total under-roof square foot for a barndominium kit ranges from $35 to $45. For example, a 1,200 square foot barndo could cost approximately $275,000 with customizations.
Advantages of living in a barndominium include faster and cheaper construction compared to traditional homes, as well as having both a home and a workspace in one structure. These buildings are also durable, with steel frames offering resistance to natural disasters and termites.
On the other hand, drawbacks include limited architectural styles and potential noise issues due to the metal frame. Despite these limitations, barndominiums offer unique benefits that cater to those seeking efficient, cost-effective housing solutions with a blend of residential and workspace functionalities.
In terms of awareness, Golladay highlights the unfamiliarity surrounding the concept of a barndominium as a potential drawback. Although this style of housing is gaining popularity, particularly in the Midwest and Southeast regions of the United States, there can be varying interpretations of the term among builders, bankers, and building departments. This lack of standardization may necessitate additional effort on your part to clarify the concept of a barndominium to others. However, fear not, as that’s where we step in to assist you!
Wondering if you can transform your barn into a barndominium? While the idea of a barn conversion inspired the terminology of barndominium, such projects are not commonly associated with actual barndo constructions. While it is feasible to convert an existing barn into a barndominium, it can be a time-consuming and costly endeavor. According to Smith, barn conversions present challenges due to potential lack of necessary substructures in older barns. Converting a barn into a barndominium may involve overcoming obstacles such as ensuring adequate passive ventilation and drainage, addressing energy efficiency concerns, setting up appropriate electrical and plumbing systems, and potentially dealing with foundation issues. Additionally, existing barns may harbor pests that need to be eradicated before starting the conversion process.
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