The Jacobson’s Story
When Kurt Jacobson, an Automation and Software Engineer at MetalForming USA in Senoia, Georgia, and his wife Leah decided to build their dream barn, they started with a vision and a free trial of SmartBuild Systems. Despite having little post-frame construction knowledge, they aimed to create something special: a multi-purpose barn complete with a large workshop, milking area, animal stalls, and living space.
The Challenge
As newcomers to post-frame construction, the Jacobsons needed design software that could:
- Handle complex design elements without requiring extensive training
- Produce professional-quality prints for permitting
- Generate detailed material lists for DIY construction
- Accommodate sophisticated features like closed lean-tos and hipped roofs
According to Kurt:
“No other software had the ability to design the complexity of building we wanted. We needed multiple closed lean-tos, inset porches, hipped roofs, and internal walls.”
The Solution
After starting their free trial, the Jacobsons discovered that SmartBuild’s intuitive interface made post-frame design accessible even to beginners. The software enabled them to:
- Visualize their dream building in detail
- Create permit-ready construction drawings
- Generate comprehensive material lists
- Design complex features without a steep learning curve
“SmartBuild gives you the ability to design and build as YOU choose, with the flexibility to customize almost everything while still remaining intuitive and simple with little to no learning curve.”
From Design to Reality
Starting construction in January and working only on weekends, the Jacobsons have already brought their digital design to life, with the barn’s shell nearing completion. SmartBuild’s detailed outputs proved invaluable for their DIY approach.
“Since we are doing the construction ourselves, the detailed material list outputs have made it extremely easy to know exactly what we needed from the lumber yard. The optimized metal cut list greatly reduces expenses and waste.”
Following SmartBuild’s construction drawings, the Jacobsons have transformed from post-frame novices to successful builders.
“Even with no previous experience designing post frame buildings, SmartBuild’s intuitive interface, flexibility, and detailed modeling made it easy to visualize and design the building we dreamed of and produce quality prints suitable for pulling permits and construction.”
The Result
What started with a free trial has become a testament to SmartBuild’s accessibility and effectiveness. The Jacobsons’ project proves that with the right tools, even those new to post-frame construction can successfully design and build complex structures.
“This project would not have been possible to do on our own without SmartBuild. Thanks for helping our dream come true!”
Hear from Kurt himself! Watch the testimonial video here.
Ready to Design the Pole Barn of Your Dreams?
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or new to post-frame construction, SmartBuild Systems makes it easy to bring your vision to life. With an intuitive interface, detailed outputs, and the flexibility to create exactly what you want, your perfect post-frame building is within reach—even if you’re starting with just a vision and a free trial.
Get started with SmartBuild Systems today: Call 303-579-6277 or email Keith Dietzen at kdietzen@keymark.com!
