Can You Customize the Interior of a Barndominium?
Customizing the interior of a barndominium is one of the most exciting parts of owning one.
These barn-style homes are known for their open-concept spaces and flexible layouts, which means you have plenty of freedom to make it truly yours.
Whether you're drawn to modern farmhouse vibes, a rustic cabin feel, or even a sleek, minimalist look, a barndominium can accommodate just about any interior style you can dream up.
One thing I learned when helping a friend design the interior of their barndominium was just how versatile the space can be.
They had this wide-open shell with exposed beams and high ceilings, which was intimidating at first. But, when we sat down and started planning, that open space was exactly what gave us the freedom to get creative. I remember looking at the blank walls and thinking, "Wow, this could be anything." Unlike traditional homes with rooms already sectioned off, you can decide where everything goes from scratch. Need a big kitchen island for entertaining? Want a cozy nook for reading by a big window? All possible.
When planning a barndominium interior, I highly recommend starting with a vision or theme. It sounds basic, but having a theme like “rustic meets industrial” or “modern farmhouse” will give you direction when you’re choosing materials, colors, and furniture. For example, my friend’s barndominium has a blend of natural wood with metal accents – a classic rustic-industrial combo that looks amazing with exposed beams. But another friend went for a modern look, with sleek white walls, black fixtures, and glass railings. Both styles work, and the key is just sticking to a theme that makes the space feel cohesive.
One tip I learned along the way is to not be afraid of using materials that add texture and warmth. Barndominiums can feel a little cold at first, especially with all that metal. To balance that, we incorporated a lot of wood – on floors, on the ceiling beams, and even as accent walls. Wood is fantastic for bringing in that warm, homey feel. Stone or brick accents work well, too, especially around fireplaces or as a kitchen backsplash. I’ve seen people use reclaimed barn wood, which is a popular choice in barndominiums because it gives that authentic “barn” feel. Plus, reclaimed wood can bring in character and history to the space, which is something you can’t easily replicate.
Now, when it comes to practical considerations, you want to think about insulation and soundproofing, especially if you’re dealing with a metal shell. That was something my friend didn’t think about until after the fact, and trust me, they wish they had. Metal buildings are notorious for being a bit echoey, and the last thing you want is your living room sounding like a cavern. Using drywall, wood paneling, and insulation will help with both temperature control and sound. Some people even add spray foam insulation between the metal frame and the interior walls – it’s a bit of an investment, but well worth it if you want to avoid drafts and save on heating.
And speaking of temperature, if you’re in a climate with extreme seasons, make sure you plan for good heating and cooling systems. Barndominiums can get quite cold in the winter and hot in the summer if not insulated well. My friend added a radiant floor heating system, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Imagine stepping onto warm floors in the middle of winter – it’s like having a built-in luxury. So, if your budget allows, radiant heat is something to consider.
Another fun part of designing a barndominium is playing with the lighting. These buildings often have tall ceilings and large windows, so you can maximize natural light. But it’s also essential to think about nighttime lighting, especially with high ceilings. We added pendant lights above the kitchen and living room, which really helped fill the vertical space and made the rooms feel more intimate. Chandeliers or oversized light fixtures can also bring drama to the space if that’s your thing. And don't skimp on dimmable lights – they allow you to change the mood with ease, especially in an open-concept home where each area needs different lighting at different times.
Finally, don’t forget to think about storage. Because many barndominiums are open-concept, you might find storage space limited if you don’t plan for it. Built-in shelves, hidden cabinets, and even under-stair storage can be lifesavers. My friend built a storage loft above the kitchen, which kept their space clean and clutter-free while still giving them that airy, open feel. It’s all about finding creative ways to make every inch work for you.
Customizing a barndominium is a bit of a journey, but the end result is so rewarding. The best part? You end up with a space that’s truly unique, one that reflects your personality and lifestyle. So if you’re considering a barndominium, go wild with your ideas – there are few limits to what you can do with these adaptable spaces.