A barndominium — or barndo, as it’s often called — is a metal building designed for residential living. It combines traditional barn home aesthetics with modern comforts, offering both living quarters and usable space for work, storage, or hobbies. Built with a steel frame and metal construction, this type of home stands out for its strength, simplicity, and flexibility.
Barndominiums have surged in popularity thanks to appearances on HGTV and viral inspiration across social media platforms. Their open layouts, high ceilings, and rustic-meets-modern designs appeal to homeowners looking for something unique. In states like Texas, where land is more plentiful, barndos are particularly attractive for rural and new home buyers.
Unlike traditional homes, barndominiums are often more affordable and faster to build. Many owners purchase metal buildings as shells and finish the interiors to suit their needs. That means you can create your dream home while saving time and money, all without sacrificing style or durability.
This guide covers everything you need to know about building a barndominium, including costs, design, benefits, and available kits, so you can decide if this is the right choice for your next home project.
What Makes a Home a Barndominium?
A barndominium blends the practicality of a barn with the comfort of a traditional home. Structurally, most barndos are built using metal buildings, steel frames, or post-frame (sometimes called pole barn) construction. What sets them apart is how these durable shells are finished with cozy, functional living areas.
Here are the most common features that define a barndo:
- Steel or post-frame construction. Most barndominiums rely on a steel frame or pole barn base for long-lasting strength and weather resistance.
- Open-concept layouts. The interior typically features minimal walls and wide, open space, great for modern living and entertaining.
- Metal siding and roofing. Exteriors are usually clad in metal siding, offering a clean, industrial look with low maintenance requirements.
- High ceilings. Tall rooflines allow for high ceilings, which improve airflow and make rooms feel more expansive.
- Multi-use design. Many barndos integrate workspaces, storage, or garages alongside the primary living area, which is ideal for rural homeowners and DIYers.
Why Are Barndominiums So Popular Right Now?
Barndominiums check all the boxes for many modern homeowners, especially those living in rural areas across the Midwest, Texas, and beyond.
Here are a few reasons for the rise in popularity:
- Affordability. Compared to a traditional house, a barndominium often costs less to build and maintain, especially when starting with a prefabricated shell.
- Media exposure. Influencers like Joanna Gaines and popular renovation shows have spotlighted barndominiums, making them a trendy, desirable option.
- Rural lifestyle fit. With plenty of space for workshops, storage, or animals, barndos are ideal for those living in rural areas who want both function and comfort.
- Durability. Built with metal and steel, barndominiums offer excellent resistance to pests, weather, and time, making them a wise long-term investment.
- Customization. These homes are easy to tailor to personal tastes and needs, offering flexibility in layout, finishes, and mixed-use spaces.
How Much Does a Metal Barndominium Cost?
When budgeting for a barndominium, it’s helpful to think of costs in two major phases: first, the shell (steel frame, exterior metal construction) and then the interior finishing, like plumbing, electrical, drywall, flooring, HVAC, and more. Prices vary widely based on location, finishes, size, and how much you DIY. Here’s a breakdown of the typical cost ranges:
- Steel shell only. Expect to pay around $20-$31 per square foot for the metal construction materials, including the steel frame, roof, and metal siding.
- Full build with interior finishes. The total cost of building a completed barndominium — including plumbing, electric, drywall, and fixtures — ranges from $65-$160 per square foot, depending on location and design choices.
- High-end builds. Luxury finishes and more complex layouts can increase total cost.
- Barndominium kits. Alan’s Factory Outlet offers barndominium kits that include the steel frame and framed openings for doors and windows. Customers then work with local pros to finish the living space, giving more flexibility and potential for DIY savings.
- Regional variation. In places like Texas and the Midwest, lower land and labor costs can bring total averages closer to $68-$168 per square foot, while more urban or remote areas may see higher prices.
Here’s a chart comparing the costs of various items in a barndominium build:
| Typical Barndominium Cost Breakdown by Square Foot | ||
|---|---|---|
| Item | Low estimate | High estimate |
| Metal building kit (shell) | $20-$31/ft² | $30-$50/ft² |
| Foundation + concrete slab | $10-$15/ft² | Higher if basement or thick slab |
| Interior finishes (electrical, HVAC, flooring, drywall) | $40-$75/ft² | $75-$150+/ft² |
| Total build cost | $65-$160/ft² | Varies based on size, region, and finish level |
Barndominium Kits: What You Get and How They Work
A barndominium kit includes the essential building materials to create a durable, weather-resistant structure, giving you a strong head start before hiring local pros to finish the interior living space.
Here’s what’s typically included in a barndominium kit:
- Steel frame. The kit provides pre-engineered framing components made from strong, long-lasting steel.
- Metal siding and roofing. Pre-cut metal siding panels and roof materials are included, delivering a clean, modern exterior that’s easy to maintain.
- Framed openings. Ready-to-install spaces for windows and doors are built into the frame, saving time on-site and simplifying customization.
When you purchase a kit from Alan’s Factory Outlet, you’re getting a cost-effective, low-maintenance structure designed for flexibility. Our metal buildings are engineered for efficiency and long-term durability, making them a smart option for homeowners who want complete control over their living space.
Pros and Cons of Barndominium Living
Choosing to live in a barndominium comes with unique perks and a few challenges.
Pros of barndominium living:
- Durability. Built with metal construction, barndominiums are highly resistant to pests, fire, and extreme weather.
- Energy-efficient. With proper insulation and modern HVAC systems, barndos can be surprisingly energy-efficient, helping lower monthly utility bills.
- Cost savings. The shell is often more affordable than traditional framing, and many owners save on labor through partial DIY involvement.
- Open floor plan. These homes typically offer large, open living spaces that are perfect for entertaining and customizing.
- Low maintenance. Metal siding and roofing require minimal upkeep compared to traditional materials like wood or brick.
- Flexible design. Barndos easily integrate workspace, garages, or storage into the home’s layout.
Cons of barndominium living:
- Limited lenders. Financing a barndominium can be trickier than a traditional home, as some lenders are unfamiliar with the structure type.
- Building codes. Local building codes for metal homes can vary and may require additional permits or inspections.
- Resale value uncertainty. Since barndos are still relatively new in some markets, estimating long-term resale value can be unpredictable.
How Big of a Barndominium Can I Build for $100,000?
If your budget is around $100,000, you can expect to build a modest but functional barndominium home, especially in areas with lower construction costs.
At an estimated $65 per square foot, which is common for basic metal construction, your budget could cover around 1,500 square feet of finished space. If costs run closer to $100 per square foot, a more conservative estimate, your budget would yield roughly 1,000 square feet.
Some builders offer shell-only kits starting at $20-$31 per square foot, meaning you could purchase the metal shell for a much larger square footage, though you’d still need to cover all interior finishes separately.
That said, several key factors will affect how far your $100,000 goes:
- Location matters. Labor, land, and permitting costs vary widely. What $100,000 buys in rural areas like Texas may not stretch as far elsewhere.
- Finish level matters. Choosing premium flooring, fixtures, or cabinetry can quickly increase the cost of building, reducing total square footage.
- DIY involvement helps. Handling parts of the project yourself, including insulation or painting, can lower labor costs and stretch your budget.
- Land, utilities, and site prep are separate. Your build budget typically excludes costs like land purchase, wells, septic systems, or electrical hookups — all of which can add significantly to your total project spend.
Barndominium Floor Plans and Design Ideas
When it comes to barndominium floor plans, the options are nearly endless. Because each barndo starts with a flexible shell, it’s easy to customize the layout to suit your lifestyle, family size, or workspace needs.
Popular barndominium designs include:
- Open floor plan layouts. Many owners opt for large, shared spaces that combine kitchen, dining, and living areas that work well for entertaining and maximizing square footage.
- Two-story configurations. A two-story layout allows for more living quarters while preserving open space on the main level for garages, shops, or recreational areas.
- Integrated porches and outdoor space. Covered porches are common in modern barndominium designs, providing a connection between outdoor living areas and indoor rooms.
- Mixed-use space. Many designs combine a residence with a workspace or garage.
Because every type of home is different, it’s worth exploring multiple floor plans before settling on one. Many Alan’s Factory Outlet customers begin with a standard barndominium kit, then work with a local contractor or designer to plan their ideal layout.
Building a Barndominium: What to Know Before You Start
Below are factors to think about before building your barndominium to help prevent delays and keep construction costs under control:
- Choose the right land. Look for an area that fits your design and access needs, especially in rural places where zoning is often more flexible. Make sure it’s suitable for utilities like septic, water, and electric.
- Understand local building codes. Requirements for residential metal buildings, barndominium kits, or even container homes vary by state and county. For example, metal homes in Texas may require extra permitting.
- Get reliable contractors. Even if you’re going the DIY route for interior work, bring in licensed pros for structural, electrical, or plumbing tasks.
- Plan for HVAC and insulation. HVAC systems need to be sized for your space, climate, and insulation levels. Proper insulation is especially important in metal buildings to regulate temperature and increase energy efficiency.
- Factor in total costs. The cost of building includes more than just the barndominium kit — think permits, prep work, utilities, finishes, and potential code upgrades. Use a realistic budget and build in contingency funds.
Is a Barndominium Right for You?
If you’re dreaming of a new home that’s flexible, cost-effective, and built to last, a barndominium home could be the perfect fit. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast ready to take on part of the build, a rural property owner looking to maximize land use, or simply someone who wants a unique barn home, the barndo offers an appealing blend of style and practicality.
A dream barndominium combines the durability of steel frame construction with custom barndominium design features, including metal roofing, open layouts, and multifunctional space. These metal buildings work well for homeowners seeking extra workspace, modern design, and long-term savings. Plus, with the right insulation and layout, they can be just as energy-efficient as traditional homes.
At Alan’s Factory Outlet, we offer pre-engineered barndominium kits that make the process easier and tailored to your location and needs. Get started on your barndominium project and create your own metal building today!
FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions and answers about barndominiums to help you make an informed decision.
Can you live in a metal barn?
Yes — with the right interior finishing, many people live comfortably in a barndominium or converted metal barn. Once insulated, framed, and finished inside, these structures offer all the comforts of a traditional home with added durability and design flexibility.
Do barndominiums last as long as regular houses?
Yes, barndominiums built with steel frames and metal siding are known for their durability. They resist rot, fire, and termites and generally require less maintenance than wood-framed homes. With proper care and quality construction, they can last just as long, if not longer, than a typical traditional home.
What about insulation for a barndominium?
Insulation is a key part of making your barndominium energy-efficient and comfortable year-round. Options include spray foam, fiberglass batts, and rigid foam panels, depending on your climate and budget. Proper insulation also helps with soundproofing and moisture control.
Is it cheaper to build a barndominium or a traditional house?
In many cases, it is cheaper to build a barndominium, especially when using a barndominium kit and handling parts of the project as a DIY builder. While total construction costs vary by region, design, and materials, the savings often come from faster build times, fewer labor expenses, and lower ongoing maintenance.
