Barndominiums have surged in popularity over the last decade, thanks to their versatility, affordability, and rustic-meets-modern appeal. Whether you’re planning a cozy barndo nestled in the countryside or a spacious multi-purpose structure with living quarters and a workshop, one of the first major decisions you’ll face is this: Should you hire an architect or go the DIY route with pre-made or self-drawn plans?
Both paths have their merits, and the right choice depends on your goals, experience, budget, and vision. In this blog post, we’ll compare architect-designed barndominium plans with DIY plans, exploring the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which is best for your unique project.
Understanding the Two Approaches
Architect-Designed Plans
Hiring a licensed architect means you’ll work closely with a professional to create a fully customized design. This includes detailed floor plans, elevations, structural considerations, and sometimes even assistance through permitting and construction.
DIY Plans
DIY plans can include pre-designed barndominium blueprints purchased online or custom layouts you create yourself using software or drawing tools. These are typically much cheaper, but require more effort, and often less personalization.
Benefits of Using an Architect for Your Barndominium
- Tailored to Your Lifestyle
Architects take the time to understand your lifestyle, routines, family size, and needs. Whether you want an open-concept kitchen, a loft office, or a wraparound porch, they’ll design a layout that fits you—not just a generic homebuyer.
- Site-Specific Design
Professional architects consider your site’s topography, climate, and local building codes. This is especially important in rural or extreme weather-prone areas where drainage, orientation to sun/wind, or snow loads need to be factored into design.
- Efficient Use of Space and Materials
An architect can optimize your layout to reduce wasted space and unnecessary material use. That can mean long-term cost savings during construction and utility use.
- Permitting Made Easier
In many counties or states, especially in areas with strict codes or HOA regulations, an architect’s stamped plan is either preferred or required. Their familiarity with local codes can streamline the permitting process.
- Professional Oversight
Architects often offer project management services, or can coordinate with engineers and contractors. Their oversight can ensure your design is built as intended and minimize costly mistakes.
Downsides of Hiring an Architect
- Higher Upfront Cost
Architectural design services typically cost 8% to 15% of total construction costs. For a $300,000 barndominium, that could be $24,000 to $45,000 in design fees alone.
- Time-Consuming
The design process can take weeks or even months depending on complexity and revisions. If you’re in a hurry to build, this may slow down your timeline.
- Overdesign Risks
Sometimes architects may design beyond your budget or add features that aren’t essential to your needs. Communication is key to avoid unnecessary complexity.
Benefits of DIY Barndominium Plans
- Cost Savings
Purchasing ready-made barndominium plans online or designing your own using software like SketchUp, Home Designer Pro, or AutoCAD can save thousands of dollars.
- Speed and Simplicity
If you choose a pre-made plan, you could have your layout in hand within minutes. This is a big advantage if you’re trying to move quickly into construction.
- Hands-On Involvement
DIYers often enjoy the creative process of shaping their dream home. If you’re a visual thinker or love design challenges, this route offers lots of personal satisfaction.
- Flexible and Modifiable
Many plan vendors allow you to tweak or customize templates. Even if you start with a ready-made design, you can usually adapt it to suit your needs more closely.
Downsides of DIY Plans
- Lack of Site Customization
Most DIY plans aren’t site-specific. They may not account for your property’s slope, wind direction, soil conditions, or climate—factors that can greatly impact livability and durability.
- Code Compliance Challenges
Without architectural expertise, you may overlook critical building codes or structural requirements. This can lead to permitting issues or worse—problems during construction.
- Limited Structural Knowledge
Even if the layout looks great, a DIY plan may not include essential details like truss loads, framing diagrams, or electrical/plumbing schematics—especially problematic if you’re building in areas with strict inspection requirements.
- Harder to Modify Later
Without a professional guiding the blueprint process, modifying your plan after construction begins can be tricky and expensive. Minor oversights in layout or functionality may become major regrets.
When to Choose an Architect
You should seriously consider hiring an architect if:
- You have a complex vision that pre-made plans won’t capture.
- Your site has challenges (slope, weather, zoning).
- You want your home to be fully customized to your lifestyle.
- You need permitting help or live in a jurisdiction requiring stamped plans.
- You’re building a high-end or large-scale barndominium where mistakes could cost tens of thousands.
When DIY Plans Might Be Right for You
DIY plans may be the best fit if:
- You have a tight budget and want to minimize design costs.
- You’re choosing a simple, common barndominium layout (like a rectangular barn with living quarters).
- You’re experienced in construction or design or plan to hire a general contractor to handle technicalities.
- You’re in a rural area with minimal permitting restrictions.
- You want to start quickly and make small customizations along the way.
A Third Option: Hybrid Approach
There’s also a middle ground: buy a DIY plan and hire an architect or engineer to review or customize it.
This can be a cost-effective compromise where you:
- Start with a proven barndo layout.
- Pay only for needed adjustments or code-specific changes.
- Get a professional stamp for permitting without full custom design fees.
Some design services even offer semi-custom plans where you choose a base model and work with a pro to tweak it. This is ideal for homeowners who want some customization but don’t want to start from scratch.
Final Thoughts: What’s Best for You?
The best path depends on your budget, timeline, site conditions, and vision. If you’re building a simple weekend getaway barndo in the country, a pre-made DIY plan may be all you need. But if you’re planning a forever home with luxury finishes or building in a restrictive zone, hiring an architect is a smart investment.
Whatever route you choose, ensure your plans are structurally sound, code compliant, and reflect your lifestyle. After all, a barndominium isn’t just a building—it’s your future home.
Need help choosing between DIY and architect plans for your barndominium?
Explore design packages, hybrid solutions, or book a consultation with a barndominium planning expert today. Your dream barndo starts with the right plan!