Barndominiums have become one of the most exciting and versatile housing trends in recent years. Combining the rustic charm of a barn with the modern amenities of a home, these structures offer affordability, durability, and unique customization opportunities. Whether you’re after a cozy countryside retreat, a family home with open living spaces, or even a live/work property, barndominiums seem to check all the boxes.
But here’s the reality: not every barndominium story is a fairytale. Many homeowners, after completing their builds, express regrets about choices they made—or overlooked—during the design, construction, and finishing stages. While these structures offer incredible benefits, they also come with unique challenges that first-time builders might not anticipate.
In this article, we’ll explore common barndominium regrets, along with insights on how to avoid them. Whether you’re in the planning stage or halfway through your build, understanding these potential pitfalls can save you time, money, and future headaches.
1. Underestimating Costs
One of the biggest misconceptions about barndominiums is that they’re always cheaper than traditional homes. While it’s true that a basic shell can be very affordable, many homeowners regret underestimating the actual finished cost.
Why This Happens:
- Builders often advertise the base price of a barndo shell, not the full move-in ready cost.
- Finishing (plumbing, electrical, flooring, cabinetry, insulation, etc.) can be just as expensive as in traditional homes.
- Custom upgrades, like sliding glass walls, high-end kitchens, or luxury bathrooms, add up quickly.
Avoid This Regret:
- Ask for detailed, itemized estimates before committing.
- Include a contingency budget of at least 10–20% for unexpected expenses.
- Talk to barndominium owners in your area about their actual final costs, not just advertised numbers.
2. Choosing the Wrong Floor Plan
Open-concept layouts are a major draw of barndominiums, but sometimes homeowners regret not balancing openness with functionality.
Common Complaints:
- Lack of privacy due to wide-open spaces.
- Bedrooms placed too close to noisy living areas.
- Kitchens that look stunning but lack sufficient storage or workflow.
Avoid This Regret:
- Think about day-to-day living, not just aesthetics.
- Consider sight lines, noise travel, and traffic flow.
- Work with a designer who specializes in barndos—they’ll anticipate unique structural considerations like large spans and support beams.
3. Skimping on Insulation and Climate Control
Because barndominiums are often steel structures, they can be hot in summer and cold in winter if not properly insulated. Many homeowners regret cutting corners here.
Issues Reported:
- Condensation leading to moisture problems and potential mold.
- Higher energy bills due to poor climate control.
- Uncomfortable living spaces, especially in regions with extreme weather.
Avoid This Regret:
- Invest in spray foam insulation or other high-performance materials.
- Consider radiant flooring or zoned HVAC systems.
- Don’t rely solely on the metal shell—plan for proper ventilation and thermal barriers.
4. Overlooking Windows and Natural Light
Barndos often start as wide, rectangular shells, and many owners regret not adding enough windows—or placing them strategically.
Problems That Arise:
- Dark, cave-like interiors that rely heavily on artificial lighting.
- Missed opportunities for views of surrounding land.
- Limited airflow without adequate window placement.
Avoid This Regret:
- Incorporate large windows, skylights, or clerestory designs.
- Align windows to capture morning or evening light.
- Balance aesthetics with energy efficiency—too much glass can impact insulation.
5. Ignoring Acoustics
Open spaces, metal walls, and high ceilings can make barndominiums echo chambers. Homeowners often regret not addressing acoustics during the design stage.
Complaints Include:
- Conversations carry across the house.
- Loud appliances or TVs dominate the space.
- Difficulties enjoying music or quiet relaxation.
Avoid This Regret:
- Use acoustic panels, rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture to absorb sound.
- Consider wood accents or soundproofing insulation.
- Break up open layouts with partial walls or room dividers.
6. Underbuilding Storage Space
The wide-open floor plan can be deceiving. Many homeowners regret not carving out dedicated storage areas.
Common Frustrations:
- Lack of closets in bedrooms.
- No pantry for kitchen essentials.
- Insufficient space for outdoor equipment, tools, or seasonal items.
Avoid This Regret:
- Build in storage solutions early—walk-in closets, built-in cabinetry, mudrooms, or loft spaces.
- Use the vertical height of barndos by adding overhead storage.
- Think long-term: families grow, hobbies evolve, and clutter accumulates.
7. Forgetting About Resale Value
Barndominiums are still a relatively new trend, and not every buyer is looking for one. Some owners regret making hyper-customized design choices that don’t appeal to the broader market.
Examples:
- Overly industrial interiors that clash with rural buyers’ tastes.
- Niche features like massive workshops that eat up living space.
- Odd room placements that don’t align with family living needs.
Avoid This Regret:
- Strike a balance between personalization and marketability.
- Work with a real estate agent familiar with barndos in your region.
- Choose flexible layouts that can appeal to future buyers.
8. Misjudging the Size of the Build
Barndominiums make it easy to go too big or too small, leading to regrets later.
Going Too Big:
- Expensive to heat, cool, and furnish.
- Wasted space if the family size doesn’t justify it.
Going Too Small:
- Feels cramped despite open layouts.
- No room for guests, hobbies, or growing families.
Avoid This Regret:
- Plan with your lifestyle 10–20 years into the future in mind.
- Don’t just focus on square footage—think about functionality.
- Use design tricks like lofts or flexible rooms to maximize space.
9. Overlooking Outdoor Living Spaces
Many barndo owners regret not integrating outdoor spaces into their designs.
Missed Opportunities:
- No covered porches for year-round enjoyment.
- Lack of outdoor kitchens or patios for entertaining.
- Limited landscaping that makes the home feel unfinished.
Avoid This Regret:
- Plan for wraparound porches, decks, or patios during the design phase.
- Consider climate—covered areas extend usability in hot or rainy regions.
- Blend indoor/outdoor living with sliding glass doors or folding walls.
10. Choosing the Wrong Builder
Finally, one of the most common regrets is trusting the wrong builder or contractor.
Why This Happens:
- Not every contractor has experience with barndominiums.
- Some underestimate structural needs for large spans and steel framing.
- Poor communication or cutting corners leaves owners frustrated.
Avoid This Regret:
- Hire a builder with proven barndominium experience.
- Ask to see previous projects and request references.
- Insist on clear contracts, timelines, and communication.
Final Thoughts: Learning from Others’ Regrets
Building a barndominium is an exciting journey, but it comes with unique considerations that differ from traditional homes. The most common regrets—ranging from underestimated costs to design missteps—often stem from rushing decisions, overlooking details, or cutting corners to save money.
The good news? Every regret is preventable with the right planning and foresight. By budgeting realistically, prioritizing insulation, designing functional layouts, and working with experienced professionals, you can create a barndominium that brings joy instead of frustration.
A barndo should be more than just a trendy structure—it should be a home that fits your lifestyle for years to come. Learn from others’ experiences, plan carefully, and you’ll minimize regrets while maximizing the benefits of this one-of-a-kind living space.