How to Find the Right Barndominium Floor Plans for You
Building a barndominium can be an exciting venture, combining the rustic charm of a barn with the comfort and functionality of a modern home. The first step in making your barndominium dream come true is selecting the right floor plan. A well-chosen floor plan not only accommodates your lifestyle but also maximizes efficiency and sustainability. Here’s a guide on how to find the ideal barndominium floor plan for your needs.
Step 1: Assess Your Needs
Before browsing floor plans, it’s crucial to assess your needs thoroughly. Consider the following:
– **Size of Family**: How many bedrooms and bathrooms are required?
– **Lifestyle**: Do you need large open spaces for entertaining, or cozy, separate areas for privacy?
– **Work and Hobbies**: Will you need space for a home office, workshop, or storage?
– **Future Plans**: Are you planning to expand your family, or possibly downsize?
– **Budget**: How much are you willing to spend on construction?
Understanding your needs will help you determine the scope and specifics of the floor plan that best suits your lifestyle.
Step 2: Consider the Site
The characteristics of your land play a significant role in choosing a floor plan. Consider the following site-specific factors:
– **Topography**: Is the land flat or sloped? Certain designs work better on a slope, while others are ideal for flat land.
– **Orientation**: The direction your home faces can affect heating and cooling costs. Plans with larger windows facing south can help capitalize on solar gain in cooler months.
– **Views and Natural Light**: Maximize beautiful views and natural light availability by choosing a plan with ample windows in strategic locations.
– **Access and Privacy**: Consider where the entrances should be and how you can optimize privacy from neighbors.
Choosing the right building site for a barndominium is a critical decision that can significantly impact both the construction process and your overall satisfaction with the final home. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting a location for your barndominium:
1. **Zoning and Building Regulations**
Before you commit to a site, make sure that your plans align with local zoning laws and building codes. These regulations can affect everything from the size and height of your barndominium to its usage and the types of materials you can use. Obtaining this information early can save you from costly mistakes and potential legal issues.
2. **Topography**
The land’s topography is crucial as it affects the ease of construction and overall costs. Flat land is generally easier and cheaper to build on, while sloped land may require additional excavation or foundation work, which can increase costs. However, sloped land might offer better drainage and views, which are advantageous for living comfort and resale value.
3. **Soil Type and Quality**
Soil quality can impact the foundation of your barndominium. Some soil types, such as clay, may require special engineering considerations due to their expansive properties, which can lead to higher foundation costs. It’s wise to have a soil test performed before purchasing land to determine if the ground is suitable for building without extensive modifications.
4. **Accessibility**
Consider the accessibility of the site. Check for availability of roads that can handle construction traffic. Accessibility will not only affect your ease of commuting but also play a significant role during the construction phase, as materials and labor need to travel to the site efficiently.
5. **Utilities**
Check the availability of essential utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage connections. If these utilities are not readily available, you may need to factor in the cost of installing them. For example, drilling a well, installing a septic system, or extending electrical lines can significantly increase your project budget.
6. **Environmental Factors**
Consider the climate and environmental conditions. In areas prone to natural disasters (like floods, wildfires, or hurricanes), specific building techniques and materials may be necessary to ensure durability and safety. Additionally, consider the orientation of the site for optimal natural light and potential for solar panel installations, which can enhance energy efficiency.
7. **Future Development**
Research the potential for future development in the area. Future growth can increase property value but may also lead to increased noise, traffic, or pollution. Conversely, a lack of growth can affect resale value and access to modern conveniences.
8. **Noise and Privacy**
Consider the level of noise from nearby roads, businesses, or agricultural activities. Also, evaluate the privacy offered by the site. A more remote or well-screened site can offer greater privacy, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
9. **Natural Resources**
The presence of natural resources such as trees, water bodies, or scenic views can enhance the livability and aesthetic appeal of your barndominium. However, these features can also come with restrictions on use and alterations, so it’s important to understand any associated legal limitations.
10. **Community Services**
Finally, consider the proximity to community services such as schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and emergency services. Being close to these services can offer convenience and improve your quality of life.
Choosing the right site for your barndominium involves a careful balance of practical considerations and personal preferences. It’s advisable to visit potential sites at different times of the day and in varying weather conditions to get a comprehensive understanding of what it would be like to live there. These things are vital to a healthy happy life in your newly built barndominium,
Step 3: Explore Floor Plan Options
Once you have a clear idea of your needs and site specifics, start exploring floor plans. You can find plans through:
– **Barndominium Kit Providers**: Many companies offer pre-designed barndominium kits that can be customized to some extent.
– **Architects and Designers**: Hiring a professional can provide a tailored solution that perfectly matches your requirements and site conditions.
– **Online Resources**: Websites like BuildMax.com offer a variety of floor plans that can be purchased directly.
Step 4: Evaluate for Functionality and Aesthetics
When comparing floor plans, assess both functionality and aesthetics:
– **Flow and Layout**: Ensure the Floor plan makes sense for your daily activities. Open floor plans are popular for a seamless flow between living, dining, and kitchen areas.
– **Room Sizes and Storage**: Check if the room sizes meet your needs and if there’s adequate storage.
– **Flexibility**: Consider floor plans that allow for future modifications or expansions.
Step 5: Consider Construction and Long-Term Costs
The floor plan you choose will impact construction costs and long-term maintenance. Consider:
– **Material Efficiency**: Some designs require more complex and thus costly construction methods.
– **Energy Efficiency**: Look for designs that support sustainable living, such as those facilitating good insulation and natural ventilation.
Step 6: Purchasing your Floor Plans
Once you have settled on a floor plan, the final step is to make a purchase. Ensure that the plans you buy are detailed and include all necessary specifications for construction. This document will be essential when hiring contractors or if you choose to DIY your barndominium. BuildMax.com has a catalog of Barndominium Floor Plans to choose from in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Purchasing Floor Plans is your first real step towards building your dream barndominium. With a set of accurate engineered floor plans you can get specific pricing from builders, We recommend getting a few quotes from local builders who are familiar with steel frame construction or Barndominiums in general, That will go a very long way in building a solid relationship with your builder, communication is key especially in the case of building someones dream home. Customized Floor Plans are the best way to get what you want out of your barndominium and Buildmax can help you through customizing your floor plans as you see fit. Browse Buildmax’s online Catalog of Barndominium Floor Plans.
Choosing the right barndominium floor plan involves a thoughtful consideration of your needs, the characteristics of your building site, and the functionality of the design. By following these steps, you can select a floor plan that not only fits your lifestyle but also enhances the efficiency and enjoyment of your new home.
