Barndominiums or barndos for short have made their way beyond rural locations. Now, these barn homes are popping up in suburban neighborhoods throughout the country. And for good reason. They're affordable, rugged, and easily tailored. So is barndominium living a fit for a suburban lifestyle?
We have guided hundreds of families through designing barndominiums to match lifestyles ranging from rural escapes to modern suburban homes at Dream Home Plans. Before you start building a barn in the suburbs, you need to consider both sides of the story. Now, what is great about living in a barndominium, and what might not be so great?
What Is a Barndominium?
A barndominium is a structure that merges a traditional barn with contemporary residential use. Most bandos feature metal framing, large-volume open interiors, and palatable lines. They are often faster to build and less expensive than traditional homes.
Barndominiums have typically been built on farmland. But that is starting to change. With the growing demand for unique designs and cost-effective options for home building, suburban barns are becoming an increasingly common choice.
Pros of Barndominium Living in the Suburbs
1. Lower Cost to Build
A barndominium's most significant benefit is regarding pricing. If you are not constructing a traditional home, the barn is something affordable and affordable than those houses. The metal frame and simplest design require fewer materials and quicker erection.
Especially in the suburbs, where land prices tend to be higher, the cost savings associated with building are a tremendous advantage. This way, you can maximize the bang for your buck and enjoy quality service too.
2. Fast Construction Time
Barndominiums go up quickly. The majority of metal barn kits can be put together in weeks (not months). So if time is of the essence and you want to start living and making it your home, this is certainly a strong advantage.
While typically subjected to more stringent building codes in suburban environments, your home can be move-in ready well ahead of a traditional home once approval is received.
3. Customizable Layouts
Barndos are flexible. Looking for an eat-in kitchen and open-concept living room? Need that second, third, fourth, etc. bedroom? Wishing you had a garage in your home? All of that is possible.
We have a variety of barndominium house plans at Dream Home Plans that fit well on suburban lots. You can style your layout according to your requirements and lifestyle.
4. Energy Efficiency
The home shipped home has very good insulation, and the roofing is metal, also common among barndominiums. This assists in controlling temperature indoors, thus saving on heating and cooling expenses.
An energy-efficient house is not only a luxury in the suburbs where the weather is unpredictable; it is also a money-saving feature that pays off in the long run.
5. Modern and Unique Design
Barndos stands out. When you live in a neighborhood of cookie-cutter houses, your barndominium is going to have character. That blend of rustic with modern is something that a lot of homeowners are looking for to be a little different.
And the straight lines and open interiors make decorating in your style, whether farmhouse, industrial, minimal, or cozy, a cinch.
6. Strong and Durable
One of the best things about barndominiums is that they're constructed to last. Steel frame, as opposed to wood, does not rot as easily as wood, and just holds up well in storms. Durability — gives the peace of mind you need in many suburban areas with unpredictable weather.
Not to mention, the steel frame isn't as likely to fall prey to those pesky termites that plague some suburban areas.
Cons of Barndominium Living in the Suburbs
1. Zoning Restrictions
Firstly, before any building is started, you will need to check both local building codes and HOA (Homeowners′ Association) rules. We always encourage you to find out what your lot will allow as soon as you start the planning process here at Dream Home Plans.
2. Limited Resale Market
Still viewed as "non-traditional," not all buyers are looking to purchase a barndominium. In the suburbs, where most home buyers are expecting cookie-cutter homes, your barn will likely not appeal to everyone.
It may not sell, but that doesn't mean it won't sell. It just means it could take longer or require compelling marketing. This unique style would be a hit or miss depending on what the rest of the local market looks like.
3. Financing Can Be Tricky
A barndominium loan isn’t always as easy to get as a traditional home mortgage. Lenders who are not familiar with barndos may need special appraisals.
In the suburbs, lenders could look to more traditional homes, and be very difficult to get the true value for your barn, for example. It is essential to work with lenders who are knowledgeable about this type of construction.
4. Noisy Interiors
The roof of a barndominium is usually metal. You'll notice when it's raining heavily. For some people, that’s cozy. For others, it’s distracting.
Moreover, poor sound insulation or inadequate furnishings can increase echo or noise problems with open-concept layouts. In addition, there is sound control with rugs or curtains, or soft furniture as sound control steps, but it's something to consider.
5. Appearance May Not Blend In
Your barn could be a bit too noticeable, depending on your area. Some delight in being unique. Some like homes that blend into the neighborhood.
Sometimes, those not-so-conventional styles will be met with resistance by neighbors or HOAs. The exterior appearance might need modifying, such as using brick, wood siding, or specific types of roof lines, in order to comply with guidelines.
Why Choose Dream Home Plans
● Plans Built for Real Living
Barndominium Floor Plans Modern families need space and function with a dash of style.
● Flexible Designs for Suburban Lots
We recognize space limitations and zoning regulations. We have plans that work for a variety of lot shapes and sizes.
● Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way
We are available to assist you with choosing materials, planning out the layout, or adjusting the design.
Dream Home Plans is more than just a design service. Consider us your partner in building the home you deserve , the right way, in the right place.
Final Thoughts
With such excitement, though, comes the challenge of living in the suburbs in a barndominium. Charming, yet affordable, modern, yet stylish — but be prepared with a plan, and be aware of the local regulations.
If you want something that stands out, is functional, and is designed around your life, and you are in the suburbs, a barndo could be just the answer.
Check out our floor plans for barndominiums at Dream Home Plans today. So, let's build something that feels like home for you, no matter where you are.
