Barndominiums have quickly become one of the most popular alternatives to traditional homes, blending rustic charm with modern functionality. These metal- or wood-framed structures combine barn-style aesthetics with residential comfort and can be customized in countless ways. One of the biggest decisions homeowners face when designing their barndominium is whether to build a single-story or two-story layout.
Each design has its own set of advantages and disadvantages depending on your budget, lifestyle, land availability, and long-term plans. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of single-story vs. two-story barndominiums to help you determine which is the right choice for your needs.
Single-Story Barndominiums
A single-story barndominium is a one-level home where all rooms are on the ground floor. This design is especially popular for retirees, families with young children, and anyone who prefers ease of access without stairs.
Pros of Single-Story Barndominiums
- Accessibility
Single-story homes are ideal for those who prioritize accessibility. Whether it’s aging in place, limited mobility, or simply the convenience of not climbing stairs daily, having everything on one level simplifies everyday living.
- Open Floor Plan Options
Barndominiums often feature open-concept designs, and a single-story layout enhances this by allowing for seamless transitions between kitchen, dining, living, and sleeping areas without obstructions.
- Easier to Maintain
From changing lightbulbs to cleaning windows, a single-story layout makes maintenance easier. You won’t need tall ladders or special equipment to access high spaces, which is especially helpful for DIY homeowners.
- Faster to Construct
One-story barndos often require less structural engineering and are faster to build. There’s no need for additional staircases, second-floor supports, or upper-level HVAC zoning, which streamlines the construction timeline.
- Lower Construction Costs
Depending on the square footage, single-story barndominiums can be more cost-effective. You’re building outward rather than upward, which might reduce material and labor costs related to structural reinforcement and safety features like staircases and guardrails.
Cons of Single-Story Barndominiums
- Larger Land Requirement
Because all the square footage is on one level, a single-story barndominium takes up more land. This can be a disadvantage if you’re working with a small lot or want to preserve yard space for outdoor features like a garden or pool.
- Less Privacy
With all bedrooms and living areas on the same floor, it might be harder to create private spaces. This can be challenging for larger families or households with multigenerational living arrangements.
- Potentially Higher Roofing Costs
Covering a larger footprint means a larger roof. While you may save on vertical framing, your roofing materials and labor could increase due to the larger surface area.
- Fewer Views
A single-story home typically doesn’t offer the same panoramic or elevated views as a two-story. If your land offers scenic vistas, you may miss out on capturing those higher perspectives.
Two-Story Barndominiums
A two-story barndominium includes a ground level and an upper level, offering more vertical space and often enabling more functional separation between public and private zones in the home.
Pros of Two-Story Barndominiums
- Maximized Square Footage
With a two-story design, you can double your livable space without expanding your building’s footprint. This is particularly useful on smaller lots or properties with zoning limitations on square footage.
- Defined Living Zones
Two-story layouts allow for better separation of spaces. For example, you can have common areas like the kitchen and living room downstairs and place bedrooms or offices upstairs for added privacy.
- Scenic Views
If your land is surrounded by mountains, woods, or lakes, an upper level gives you the opportunity to enjoy those views from a balcony, loft, or upstairs bedroom.
- More Design Flexibility
The vertical space of a two-story structure opens the door to more architectural features like vaulted ceilings, interior balconies, lofts, and dramatic window placements that are harder to implement in single-story homes.
- Better Yard Utilization
By building up rather than out, you preserve more of your lot for outdoor features like patios, driveways, landscaping, or even future expansions such as a guest house or workshop.
Cons of Two-Story Barndominiums
- Stair Accessibility
Stairs can be a dealbreaker for some people. Elderly homeowners, small children, or anyone with mobility issues may find a two-story home less practical or even unsafe.
- Increased Construction Costs
Two-story homes generally require more structural engineering, a stronger foundation, and additional materials for stairs, railings, and floor joists. These elements can increase your total build cost.
- Longer Construction Timeline
Because of the added complexity, a two-story barndominium may take longer to complete, especially if your contractor needs to incorporate extra safety measures or custom design elements.
- Higher Energy Costs
Heating and cooling a two-story home can be less efficient than a single-story, especially if your HVAC system isn’t properly zoned. Warm air rises, which can create inconsistent temperatures between floors.
- Harder Maintenance
Exterior tasks like painting, window cleaning, or roof inspections become more complicated with a second level, often requiring scaffolding or professional assistance.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between a single-story and a two-story barndominium depends on a variety of personal and logistical factors. Here are a few questions to help guide your decision:
- What’s the size of your lot?
If you have plenty of space, a single-story may be ideal. Limited land? A two-story will maximize your buildable area. - Do you plan to age in place?
If you want to stay in your barndominium long-term, single-story living can help you avoid issues with stairs down the road. - What’s your budget?
Initial costs can vary. While a single-story may save money on structural elements, a two-story may save on roofing and foundation materials by having a smaller footprint. - How many people will live in the home?
A larger household may benefit from the additional space and privacy a two-story design provides. - Do you want a view?
If elevation will enhance your lifestyle or increase resale value, a second story might be the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Barndominiums are all about customization and flexibility, and the choice between a single-story and two-story design is no exception. Both options have their strengths and potential drawbacks, so understanding your goals and priorities is key to making the best decision.
Whether you choose the sprawling simplicity of a one-level layout or the vertical elegance of a two-story home, a well-designed barndominium can offer beauty, functionality, and efficiency for years to come.
If you’re still undecided, consider working with a professional barndominium designer who can create a floor plan tailored to your land, lifestyle, and future needs. After all, the best home isn’t just about square footage — it’s about how that space supports the way you want to live.