In the ever-evolving world of alternative home design, barndominiums have made a significant mark. Their flexible layouts, affordability, and rustic-modern charm have made them a popular choice for homeowners across the country. However, as sustainability and energy efficiency continue to climb the list of homeowner priorities, a new twist on the barndo concept is emerging—partially buried barndominiums.
Combining the structural simplicity of a barndominium with the energy-saving benefits of earth-sheltered construction, partially buried barndominiums are proving to be both feasible and forward-thinking. In this post, we’ll explore the technical and design feasibility, advantages, and potential challenges of this innovative housing concept.
What is a Partially Buried Barndominium?
A partially buried barndominium is exactly what it sounds like—a metal-framed or post-frame building that is partially set into the earth. Typically, one to three sides of the structure are built into a hillside or bermed with soil, while the remaining sides remain exposed. These homes capitalize on the insulating properties of the earth, providing natural temperature regulation and increased energy efficiency.
Unlike traditional underground homes or earthships that are entirely submerged or designed from the ground up for subterranean life, partially buried barndominiums retain the open aesthetic and spatial flexibility that makes barndos so appealing, just with added efficiency and environmental benefits.
Is It Feasible?
The short answer is: yes—but with planning.
While building a partially buried structure introduces unique challenges, they are not insurmountable. Here’s a breakdown of the most important feasibility factors to consider:
- Site Topography
The ideal site for a partially buried barndominium is a sloped or hilly property. This naturally allows the home to be “tucked” into the landscape without extensive excavation. In flat areas, berming (artificially building up earth around the structure) can be used, but it may increase costs.
- Soil Type and Drainage
Soil stability is crucial for any earth-sheltered structure. Sandy or loose soils may require reinforcement, while clay-heavy soils can retain water, creating moisture management issues. A thorough geotechnical survey is essential before committing to design and excavation.
Additionally, proper drainage systems (like French drains or perforated pipe systems) must be implemented to prevent hydrostatic pressure and water intrusion. A good waterproofing membrane and weeping tile system can ensure your home stays dry and structurally sound.
- Structural Considerations
Barndominiums typically use steel framing or post-frame construction. For partially buried designs, reinforced concrete may be used for retaining walls, especially on the buried sides. Integrating these into a metal building requires coordination between a structural engineer and the building designer to ensure load-bearing integrity.
You’ll also want to plan for:
- Backfill support systems
- Insulated wall panels
- Ventilation systems
- Access for maintenance
- Building Codes and Permits
Earth-sheltered designs are not always well covered in local building codes, especially in rural areas where barndominiums are most common. This means:
- You’ll need an architect or builder familiar with alternative home construction.
- Approval might take longer depending on local jurisdictions.
- Specific waterproofing, egress, and ventilation rules may apply.
Benefits of a Partially Buried Barndominium
While partially burying your barndo adds some complexity, the benefits can far outweigh the challenges. Here’s why this design is catching on with sustainability-minded homeowners and off-grid enthusiasts alike:
- Exceptional Energy Efficiency
One of the standout advantages of burying a portion of your home is natural insulation. The earth acts as a thermal mass, maintaining a relatively stable temperature year-round. This means:
- Cooler interiors in summer
- Warmer spaces in winter
- Reduced heating and cooling loads
In fact, studies show that earth-sheltered homes can reduce energy usage by up to 80% compared to traditional homes, depending on climate and design.
- Protection from the Elements
Being partially buried adds a layer of protection against:
- High winds
- Wildfires
- Harsh sun exposure
- Severe temperature fluctuations
This makes partially buried barndos a great choice for areas prone to extreme weather or natural disasters.
- Lower Maintenance and Longevity
Thanks to reduced exposure, buried walls and roofs face less wear from UV rays, hail, and temperature stress. This can significantly extend the lifespan of exterior finishes, reduce repainting costs, and keep roofing intact for longer.
- Acoustic Insulation
The earth also provides excellent sound insulation. If you’re building near a highway, railway, or noisy industrial area, partially burying the barndominium can create a much quieter living space inside.
- Reduced Visual Impact
For those who value aesthetics and minimal disruption to the natural landscape, partially burying the home allows it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. With green roofs or natural berms, the structure becomes almost invisible from a distance—ideal for eco-conscious or discreet living.
- Improved Security and Privacy
By limiting access points and reducing visual exposure, partially buried designs offer enhanced security and privacy. This can be appealing for those living off-grid, in rural areas, or simply valuing a bit of solitude.
Design Ideas and Features
If you’re considering going this route, here are some practical design strategies and features that complement the partially buried barndominium:
- Clerestory windows on the exposed sides for natural light.
- Green roofs increase insulation and support local biodiversity.
- Sunken patios that bring outdoor space to the buried side.
- Passive solar orientation to maximize energy efficiency.
- Earth-tone exterior materials to blend with surroundings.
You can even incorporate walkout basements or multi-level floor plans that leverage the slope of the land for dramatic interior layouts.
Potential Drawbacks
No design is without its challenges. Here are a few considerations you’ll need to account for:
- Initial construction costs may be higher due to excavation, drainage systems, and reinforced materials.
- Natural lighting can be limited on buried walls, requiring strategic window placement and light wells.
- Moisture control is critical—without proper waterproofing, buried walls can lead to mold and structural issues.
- Resale value may be uncertain in areas where earth-sheltered homes are uncommon or misunderstood.
Is It Right for You?
Partially buried barndominiums are not a one-size-fits-all solution. However, if you’re interested in:
- Sustainable living
- Energy independence
- Disaster-resilient design
- Blending into a natural landscape
…then this concept may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re building a weekend retreat, a full-time residence, or an off-grid homestead, the flexibility and performance of a partially buried barndominium make it an exciting option worth considering.
Final Thoughts
As we look for smarter, more sustainable housing solutions, blending the rugged charm of barndominiums with the ancient wisdom of earth-sheltered design offers a compelling path forward. While building a partially buried barndo requires more up-front planning, the long-term benefits in comfort, efficiency, and durability are well worth the effort.
Ready to dig into your next barndominium project—literally? With the right design team and site selection, going partially underground might just elevate your living experience.