Barndominiums aren’t just a passing trend, they’re here to stay. And it’s easy to see why. These versatile homes combine rustic charm with modern amenities to appeal to both traditionalists and contemporary homeowners.
But with so many barndominum styles to choose from, how do you know which is right for your next client and their project?
In this 5 minute read, you’ll get everything you need to know.
- The most popular styles of barndominium house plans
- Barndominium design tips
- Expert tips for implementing them in your barn house plans
Start with seeing how barndominiums became so popular.
The Rise of Barndominiums
Check out how barndominiums have soared in popularity.
What Is a Barndominium?
Barndominiums (or “barndos”) are buildings that combine the style of a barn with the functionality of a home. In the past, some were existing barns or stables that were repurposed into living spaces. But today new build barndominiums have become increasingly popular.
When Did Barndos Become So Popular?
Barn houses have been around for a long time. The term was originally used by a real estate developer in Connecticut to describe a development with barns attached to homes. Then in 2016, the HGTV show Fixer Upper used the term and it soared in popularity. And in the past 10 years, barn style house plans have continued to grow in popularity.
But what makes them so popular?
Why Do People Like Barndominiums?+
Here are a few reasons people like the barn style house plans.
- Customizable open concept floor plan
- Tall ceilings
- Large square footage
- Barndominium floor plans are practical and functional designs that are good for active lifestyles
- Lower construction and maintenance cost compared to traditionally built homes
- A barn style house can be built faster than a traditional house
The Top Barndominium Design Styles
Check out 5 of the most common barn house design styles you can use for future projects.
1. Traditional Style
About this barndominium style: The traditional barndominium style is all about preserving the charm and simplicity of old-fashioned barns. This design incorporates classic elements like wood framing, gambrel roofs and wraparound porches.
Exposed wooden beams and rustic finishes give these homes a cozy, nostalgic feel. While the exterior maintains a barn-like appearance, the spacious interiors will have with modern features.
How to implement this style in your barn house plans:
- Use reclaimed wood for beams, flooring and furniture to enhance the rustic, vintage feel.
- Use a gambrel roof to capture that classic barn aesthetic. This also helps maximize second floor living space if you have one.
- Design an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings to create a spacious, airy interior that contrasts with the traditional barn exterior.
- Add a wraparound porch for an inviting outdoor space.
- Consider exposed wood framing and metal accents inside to maintain the barn’s original character without sacrificing modern comforts.
2. Modern Style
About this barndominium style: The modern barndominium style is all about clean lines, minimalist aesthetics and functionality. This type of barndo has sleek materials like polished concrete floors, steel framing and large windows.
Open-concept floor plans dominate, with an emphasis on flow and unobstructed spaces. The modern barndominium is a good choice for clients looking to combine urban sophistication with the practicality of a barn home.
How to implement this style in your designs:
- Go with polished concrete floors and metal framing. This provides a sleek, modern industrial look that’s easy to maintain and long-lasting.
- Use floor-to-ceiling windows for plenty of natural light.
- Go with minimalist cabinetry and furniture to keep the focus on the architectural features and open space.
- Consider designing an open-concept kitchen that flows into the dining room and living space.
3. Contemporary Style
About this barndominium style:
The contemporary barndominium style is all about blending modern design elements with nature-inspired aesthetics. Look for clean lines, expansive windows and eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood and metal in this barndo style. This one also prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability to create a comfortable living space that’s also good for the environment.
Contemporary barndo architectural styles also usually have minimalistic interiors, open living spaces and well-designed indoor-outdoor transitions. The contemporary style is a smart choice for homeowners looking to combine modern living with a sustainable footprint.
How to implement this style in your designs:
- Incorporate large windows and glass doors to maximize natural light and create a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Use sustainable materials like reclaimed wood or bamboo flooring to align with the eco-friendly principles of contemporary design.
- For the main floor, go with an open concept layout with minimalistic furniture. That lets the architecture and natural surroundings take center stage.
- Add energy-efficient systems like solar panels and underfloor heating.
- Use mostly neutral tones with pops of color to create a visually interesting but inviting space.
*PRO TIP! – Not all design programs can easily create barndominium plans. That’s why more designers, builders and remodelers are switching to Cedreo home design software. From a simple master suite redo in an existing barn house to a full set of 3D barndominium house plans, Cedreo can handle it all.
In fact, most users can create an entire barn house plan in as little as two hours!
With a FREE version, you’ve got nothing to lose. Try creating barndominium house plans with it now.
4. European Style
About this barndominium style:
The European-style barndominium house blends classic European architectural elements with the rustic feel of a barn home. Inspired by European countryside estates and villas, this style often features stone exteriors, arched windows, and exposed beams.
Inside you’ll find rich textures, traditional materials and detailed craftsmanship. With a rustic charm and a touch of refinement, it’s the perfect barn house plan for clients who want a bit of luxury and who appreciate attention to detail.
How to implement this barn house style in your designs:
- Use stone or brick exteriors to capture the old-world European aesthetic.
- Incorporate arched doorways and windows.
- Add vaulted ceilings with exposed wood beams (rustic looking ones if possible) to bring in warmth and historical charm while maintaining an open, airy feel.
- Get a touch of refinement with rich, classic materials like marble countertops, hardwood floors, and wrought iron.
- Complete the European look with spacious outdoor features such as courtyards, wraparound porches or patios.
5. Mid-Century Style
About this barndominium style:
The Mid-Century style barndominium breaks from the rustic norm, embracing retro aesthetics with a modern edge. This style draws heavily on the design principles of the 1950s and 1960s. That means it prioritizes clean, unadorned lines, functional spaces and an integration of nature with architecture. Think normal barndo features — large windows, open floor plans, and minimalistic interiors — all paired with distinct mid-century touches like sloped roofs and geometric patterns.
How to implement this style in your barndominium plans:
- Integrate sloped roofs and flat planes.
- Use large glass panels and sliding doors to enhance natural light and blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Use mid-century inspired materials like warm woods and terrazzo flooring for a touch of retro yet elegant.
- Try to include subtle geometric patterns in tile work or accents.
Start Designing a Barndominium Today
Designing barndominium house plans is a unique way to blend modern comforts with rustic architectural styles. And whether your clients want the rustic charm of a traditional barn house plan or the old world charm of a European barndominium house, Cedreo’s 3D home design software makes it easy for you to create the design.
- Intelligent toolset for designing complicated structures like a gambrel roof
- Time-saving 3D tools that anyone can use
- Photorealistic renderings that make it easy for clients to visualize your barn house plans
- Integrations with CostCertified for streamlined estimating
With a FREE version, you’ve got nothing to lose. Try Cedreo today!
