As you embark on the journey of home construction, an array of design and style choices will present themselves. Of late, barndominiums have burst onto the architectural landscape, rapidly gaining traction. While some remain unfamiliar with this unique home type, many have taken notice and are eager to own one. Read on to discover the allure of barndominiums that’s captivating homeowners nationwide.
What Exactly is a Barndominium?
The terms ‘barndominium’ or the more colloquial ‘barndo’ can leave many puzzled. Often, the image conjured is that of a traditional barn transformed into a living space with rustic wooden walls that might lack modernity or privacy. However, this stereotype is a stark contrast to the reality of what a barndominium embodies.
Barndominiums represent the fusion of contemporary living with a hint of rustic allure. Contrary to the belief that they’re exclusive to rural settings, these dwellings are making a mark even in city landscapes. Their understated sophistication coupled with a vast potential for personalization makes them seamlessly adaptable to varied surroundings.
Drawing inspiration from both the sleek lines of modern farmhouses and the foundational characteristics of barns, the interiors of barndominiums elegantly intertwine the present with the past. Upon entering, the tastefully curated spaces might make one forget the barn association altogether.
What Defines the Unique Barndominium Style?
While the word ‘barndominium’ may evoke thoughts of rural barns, it’s far from the reality. Inside, these structures often surprise visitors with their contemporary and sophisticated designs. Certain characteristics make barndominiums stand out and have endeared them to many.
Externally, barndominiums display a harmonious blend of rustic charm, barn-like features, and a dash of modern finesse. This amalgamation might sound complicated, but in execution, these styles interweave seamlessly, enhancing each other. A signature addition to many of these homes is the spacious wraparound porch, reminiscent of present-day farmhouse designs.
The essence of a barndominium is vast, uninterrupted space. Although open-concept designs are not alien to conventional homes, barndominiums elevate this concept. Originating from the intrinsic design of barns, which are emblematic of vastness, barndominiums inherit this spacious layout naturally.
Vaulted ceilings are another hallmark of the barndominium style. It’s not uncommon to step into one and be greeted by a grand room crowned with towering ceilings. Often accompanied by a loft area and generously adorned with windows, these ceilings enhance the feeling of openness, giving barndominiums an edge over typical homes with open designs.
A distinctive feature of barndominiums is their metal exterior and roof. While many recognize this aspect when discussing barndominiums, few realize the diverse range of colors and designs the metal siding offers. Beyond its resilience and functionality, the material boasts aesthetic versatility.
How Do You Define Barndominium Aesthetics?
One might assume that barndominiums are limited to a traditional, rustic decor, but that’s a misconception. The styling of barndominiums spans a wide spectrum, from quintessentially rustic to ultra-modern elegance.
Many homeowners gravitate towards the rustic appeal, emphasizing the contemporary farmhouse look. Common design elements include pristine white shiplap walls, light-hued flooring, and accents that evoke a distinct countryside charisma. Although white is currently in vogue, pastel and earthy shades have held their ground over time and are witnessing a resurgence. This pastoral allure isn’t restricted to interiors; it’s mirrored outside with grand barn-style doors welcoming guests.
On the other end, there are those who infuse their barndominiums with a sleek, contemporary flair. Monochromatic grey palettes dominate such designs, right from the flooring to kitchen fixtures. A minimalist theme often prevails, with select, artful pieces accentuating the space. Externally, such homes may showcase deeper hues, and while barn doors might be present, they usually blend with the modern theme through darker shades.
Yet another approach to styling is reminiscent of log cabins. With interiors bathed in warm tones, assorted decor items dotting the space, and exteriors in bold or dark shades, this design recalls the essence of classic barns but with contemporary enhancements.
The versatility of barndominiums is truly their strength. They can morph into myriad styles while preserving their unique structural advantages, allowing homeowners to create their personalized haven without any constraints on design or functionality.
What Should You Consider When Thinking About Barndominiums?
A remarkable feature of barndominiums is their adaptability. Their inherent spaciousness makes them ripe for personal touches – be it tweaking room sizes or integrating specialized spaces like a guest suite or hobby room.
Maintenance-wise, barndominiums offer distinct advantages. Their choice of metal for both siding and roofing typically means durability and better resistance to weather elements compared to some traditional materials. Additionally, those constructed with steel frames benefit from added protection against threats like termites or fire.
However, navigating the world of barndominiums can sometimes be tricky. Certain banks, insurance companies, municipal departments, and builders might not be well-versed with the concept of barndominiums, potentially leading to misunderstandings. If you’re keen on embracing this living style, it could be beneficial to connect with professionals experienced in barndominium construction or present your vision as a unique custom home design. Given that barndominiums are still an emerging trend, it’s essential to be prepared for some knowledge gaps in the market.
In Conclusion
As more individuals opt for self-designed homes, the landscape of architectural choices broadens. Amidst a sea of home designs, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by unfamiliar terms and styles. This insight into barndominiums aims to empower you with the clarity needed to design the floor plan for your dream barndominium.
