Our Favorite Upgrades for Custom Barndominiums in Boone County

 

Why barndominiums are a great fit for Boone County

A barndominium blends a barn-style structure with comfortable living space.

Here in Boone County and similarly rural or semi-rural counties, this type of building hits a sweet spot:

• Large, open layouts make it easy to combine work, living, hobbies and storage.
• Durable materials (steel siding/roofing, post‐frame construction) help handle bigger spans, fewer interior load-walls and can offer lower maintenance.
• Customization is strong: you can design your barndominium to match your lifestyle, whether that’s a home office, equipment bay, guest space or more.

With these advantages in mind, here are some of the top upgrades we recommend for barndominiums built with Boone County Builders—written simply, so you can pick what fits your property and lifestyle.

1. Enlarged Workshop/Shop Space with Living Quarters

Many homeowners love a barndominium because they don’t just get a home—they get ample workspace or storage built in. For example: large bays for vehicles, equipment, hobbies or even small business use.

Upgrade idea: Design one side as the “barn/shop” with large overhead doors, concrete floor, high ceiling.

The other side has a living space: open concept kitchen, living room, primary suite.

Why it matters for you: If you’re storing farm equipment, RVs, or working from home, you’ll want the extra height, strong doors, and durable flooring.

2. Open Floor Plan + Vaulted Ceilings + Natural Light

One of the appealing things about barndominiums: fewer internal load-bearing walls and strong flexibility in layout. Also, floor plans frequently show vaulted ceilings, big windows, expansive living spaces.

Upgrade idea: Vaulted ceiling in the main living area for a spacious feel.

Large windows or sliding glass doors for natural light and a connection to the outdoors.

Why it matters: It adds ease of movement, makes the space feel larger and more inviting—perfect when combining work/play/home in one building.

3. Premium Exterior Materials & Durable Finishes

Durability matters—especially when you’re constructing a building that mixes shop/storage and living. Some of the benefits of barndominiums are the durability, low maintenance and resistance to pests/rot.

Upgrade idea: Steel siding and roof (or other long-lasting material) for the “barn” part.

High-quality windows/doors and good insulation to make the living space comfortable through seasons.

Why it matters: It means you’ll spend less time/money on repairs, and your building will hold up better—important if you build for long-term and future resale.

4. Convertible Zones & Future-Friendly Design

Since a barndominium allows more open, flexible design, planning ahead for how you might use the space later is smart. One resource says that barndominiums “give you a huge amount of design flexibility” and are great if you want a home-workshop combo, or multi-purpose space.

Upgrade idea: Build a loft or mezzanine that could later become an extra bedroom/office.

Design the shop bay so it can later be converted (or partially shared) with living space or guest area.

Why it matters: Your life changes: kids grow, hobbies evolve, maybe you turn part into rental or guest suite. With flexibility, you’re ready.

5. Energy Efficiency & Comfortable Living

Even though the “barn” side is more industrial in feel, the “home” side should feel comfortable year-round. Barndominiums can be energy efficient when built with proper insulation and efficient materials.

Upgrade idea: Good insulation in walls/roof.

Energy-efficient windows and HVAC system sized for combined living + shop space.

Smart zoning: keep the living area thermally separate from the large shop bay if you won’t always heat/cool the whole.

Why it matters: In Boone County, summers can get warm, winters can be cold—so comfort + lower utility bills matter.

Putting It All Together: What To Choose First

Here’s a simple roadmap:

• First, decide how you’ll use the building: mostly home with some shop vs mostly shop with some living.
• Next, prioritize: If the budget is tight right now, pick the most important upgrade (e.g., durable exterior material + shop bay) and add others later.
• Think future use: If you might sell in 10-20 years, upgrades that appeal broadly (open plan, good finishes) help.

Work with Boone County Builders to nail down specs: size of shop bay, number of overhead doors, living square footage, owner’s preferences.

 

If you’re in Boone County (or nearby) and curious about building a barndominium that fits your life—workshop, storage, home all in one—get in touch. Boone County Builders can walk you through:

Which upgrades work best for your property and budget

How to map out shop/living zones effectively

How durability, materials and energy-efficiency pay off long-term

Ready to explore what your dream barndominium could look like? Reach out today, and let’s plan something that works for your future.