2 Story Barndominium Plans: The Perfect Blend of Rustic Charm and Modern Luxury

Barndominiums, also known as barn homes, have gained immense popularity over the years due to their unique blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. These homes are perfect for those who want to live in the countryside or have a spacious, eco-friendly home. When it comes to designing a barndominium, there are numerous options to choose from, but a 2-story design is often the most popular choice. In this article, we will delve into the world of 2-story barndominium plans, exploring the various design options, advantages, and disadvantages. We will also provide expert tips and insights to help you create your dream barndominium.

For those who are new to the world of barndominiums, it’s essential to understand that a 2-story design offers more space, flexibility, and comfort compared to a single-story design. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, surrounded by lush greenery, and spending your evenings gazing at the stars in your spacious loft. With a 2-story barndominium, you can create a cozy, luxurious space that reflects your personality and meets your needs. Let’s dive deeper into the world of 2-story barndominium plans and explore the various design options and possibilities.

1. Designing the Perfect Floor Plan

When designing a 2-story barndominium, it’s essential to create a floor plan that meets your needs and reflects your lifestyle. A typical 2-story barndominium floor plan consists of an open-plan living area, kitchen, dining area, and a cozy loft or bedroom on the upper floor. You can customize the floor plan to suit your needs, adding features like a spacious master bedroom, walk-in closets, or a home office. Consider factors like natural light, ventilation, and insulation when designing your floor plan. Ensure that the space feels comfortable and relaxing, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

For instance, if you’re planning a 2-story barndominium with 2 bedrooms, you can allocate the upper floor for the bedrooms, leaving the lower floor for the living areas. You can add a spacious loft with built-in storage spaces, perfect for a cozy reading nook or a home office. The key is to create a balance between functionality and comfort, ensuring that each space serves its purpose.

2. Choosing the Right Materials

When building a 2-story barndominium, it’s essential to choose the right materials that offer durability, sustainability, and energy efficiency. Popular materials for barndominiums include reclaimed wood, steel, and low-maintenance siding options like vinyl or metal. You can also opt for green materials like bamboo, straw bales, or recycled materials. Ensure that the materials you choose complement the rustic charm of your barndominium while providing modern functionality.

For example, if you’re planning to build a modern barndominium, you can opt for steel frames, metal siding, and reclaimed wood accents. Steel frames provide strength and durability, while metal siding offers low-maintenance benefits. Reclaimed wood accents add a touch of rustic charm, blending seamlessly with modern materials. Remember to consider factors like budget, climate, and local regulations when choosing your materials.

3. Incorporating Rustic Charm

One of the unique selling points of barndominiums is their rustic charm. When designing your 2-story barndominium, incorporate elements that reflect this charm, such as exposed beams, reclaimed wood, and vintage decor. You can also add features like a fire pit, wooden fencing, or a metal roof to enhance the rustic charm. Ensure that the rustic elements blend seamlessly with modern materials and design features, creating a harmonious balance.

For instance, you can incorporate exposed beams in your living area, paired with reclaimed wood furniture and vintage decor. The beams add a touch of rustic charm, while the furniture and decor provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Consider adding metal accents, like a metal roof or metal lighting fixtures, to enhance the industrial-chic feel of your barndominium.

4. Creating an Energy-Efficient Home

Energy efficiency is a crucial aspect of building a 2-story barndominium. With the increasing concern about climate change and rising energy costs, it’s essential to design a home that minimizes energy consumption. Consider factors like insulation, natural lighting, and ventilation when designing your barndominium. You can also opt for renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines to power your home.

For example, you can incorporate large windows and skylights to allow for natural light and ventilation. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and HVAC systems, minimizing energy consumption. You can also opt for energy-efficient appliances, insulation materials, and energy-saving lighting fixtures to create an eco-friendly home.

5. Designing the Perfect Loft

The loft is often the crowning glory of a 2-story barndominium. When designing the perfect loft, consider factors like natural light, ventilation, and functionality. You can create a cozy reading nook, a home office, or a relaxing bedroom in your loft. Ensure that the space feels comfortable and inviting, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

For instance, you can design a loft with built-in storage spaces, perfect for storing books, clothes, or linens. You can also add a comfortable reading nook with a plush couch, pillows, and a floor lamp. Consider adding a skylight or a large window to allow for natural light and ventilation.

6. Incorporating Modern Conveniences

While barndominiums are known for their rustic charm, they can also incorporate modern conveniences. Consider adding features like a fully-equipped kitchen, a washer-dryer unit, or a state-of-the-art entertainment system. You can also opt for smart home technology, energy-efficient appliances, and modern lighting fixtures.

For example, you can create a modern kitchen with energy-efficient appliances, granite countertops, and ample storage space. You can also add a sprawling wet bar, perfect for entertaining guests. Consider incorporating modern materials like stainless steel, concrete, or glass to enhance the modern feel of your barndominium.

7. Designing for Sustainability

Sustainability is a crucial aspect of building a 2-story barndominium. Consider factors like locally sourced materials, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly practices when designing your home. You can opt for renewable energy sources, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient appliances to minimize your carbon footprint.

For instance, you can design a barndominium with a permaculture garden, perfect for growing your own fruits and vegetables. You can also opt for composting toilets, rainwater harvesting systems, or solar-powered appliances to reduce your reliance on public utilities.

8. Creating a Functional Outdoor Space

The outdoor space of a 2-story barndominium is often just as important as the indoor space. Consider factors like functionality, comfort, and aesthetics when designing your outdoor space. You can create a spacious patio, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying al fresco dining. Incorporate features like a fire pit, a grill, or an outdoor kitchen to enhance the functionality of your outdoor space.

For example, you can design a patio with a built-in grill, perfect for hosting barbecues and outdoor gatherings. You can also add a cozy seating area with plush furniture, pillows, and a fire pit. Consider incorporating outdoor lighting fixtures, outdoor heaters, or outdoor fans to create a comfortable outdoor space.

9. Incorporating Technology and Smart Home Features

Technology and smart home features can enhance the functionality and comfort of a 2-story barndominium. Consider incorporating features like voice-controlled lighting, smart thermostats, or energy-efficient appliances. You can also opt for smart home security systems, home automation systems, or advanced entertainment systems to enhance the modern feel of your barndominium.

For instance, you can install a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and temperature preferences, adjusting the temperature accordingly. You can also opt for voice-controlled lighting fixtures, perfect for adjusting the lighting in your barndominium.

10. Final Thoughts and Expert Tips

Designing a 2-story barndominium requires careful planning, creativity, and attention to detail. It’s essential to balance functionality, comfort, and sustainability when designing your dream home. Consider factors like natural light, ventilation, and insulation to create an energy-efficient home. Don’t forget to incorporate rustic charm, modern conveniences, and eco-friendly practices to create a unique and inviting space.

As a final tip, consider consulting with a professional builder or architect to ensure that your design meets local building codes and regulations. Research local zoning laws, permits, and certifications required to build a barndominium in your area. With careful planning, creativity, and attention to detail, you can create a 2-story barndominium that reflects your personality, meets your needs, and provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the countryside.