steel building design

Steel Building Design Doesn’t Have to Be Daunting

Metal residential structures have gained popularity due to their many advantages over traditional wood structures. And don’t worry; steel building design doesn’t have to be daunting! Metal barndominiums can be transformed into a home that feels uniquely yours, tailored to your preferences quite easily. 

A newly built steel barndo is the perfect blank canvas to imprint your personal touch and distinctive style. The key is to balance the industrial nature of the metal building with warm, inviting elements. You can transform a metal barndo into a comfortable and welcoming space by combining thoughtful design choices.  

  1. Interior Design

The first step is deciding on the overall style you want to achieve. Some popular options include:

 

  • Rustic farmhouse
  • Industrial
  • Modern country
  • Shabby chic

Click here to view some of our favorite pole barn styles. 

Utilize warm color schemes for interior walls, floors, and ceilings. Integrate natural materials like wood for flooring and accent pieces to add warmth. Choose comfortable, inviting furniture and plenty of rugs to create a cozy atmosphere.

Personalize your space with unique features and artwork that reflect your personality or the purpose of the building. Consider incorporating elements that have sentimental value or a connection to the local environment. Interior design is a personal preference that can add warmth to steel building-designed barndos.

Insulation 

To ensure the literal warmth of your barndo home, install the proper insulation to regulate temperature and make the space feel comfortable. Metal homes designed with insulation will minimize heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This energy efficiency can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs; a comfortable home and lower costs is a win-win!

Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting environment in your home. Using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting allows you to set the scene for different areas of your home. Incorporate fixtures that complement your overall design aesthetic. For a modern feel, consider pendant lights. A farmhouse wagon wheel chandelier will bring out the rustic farmhouse vibe, and chandeliers made from repurposed materials can give the environment a shabby chic feel. Lighting is a simple way to add character and warmth to your barndominium. 

Flex Spaces

Families and their needs can change over time, so incorporating flex space into your barndo allows for adaptability and versatility. Some popular flex spaces include:

  • Libraries
  • Home gyms
  • Game rooms
  • Craft rooms
  • Home offices

The type of space you need may evolve over the years; the beauty of flex spaces is that they’re easy to reorganize.

Doors and Windows

A home with no windows—cold and daunting at best, downright creepy at worst! Opting for large, energy-efficient windows will allow plenty of natural light into the space, making it inviting and warm. “Energy-efficient windows can help you save an average of 12% on your energy bills,” says to Rupa Mehta, home expert at home services company Angi.

Select doors with appealing designs that match your decor style, and consider options like barn-style sliding doors for a rustic touch. Frame doors and windows with trim in a contrasting color to add detail and more warmth.

Exterior Finishes

Choose warm, earthy color tones for the exterior to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Consider using textured finishes or cladding materials that mimic traditional building materials like wood or stone. Incorporate architectural details like cupolas or overhangs to break up the industrial look and add visual interest.

Create inviting outdoor living spaces like a covered porch, patio, or deck that blend seamlessly with the interior style. The key is to balance the rustic barn elements and modern comfort harmoniously.

Landscaping

Create a well-designed landscape around the metal barndo to soften its appearance.

Use planters, flower beds, and trees to add greenery and enhance the overall aesthetic.

Incorporating pathways or walkways will guide visitors to the entrance in an inviting manner.

Ready to Design Your Barndo?

Have you wanted to build your dream barndo but don’t know where to begin…or end? 

You can use our web-based software to design barndominiums—inside and out! With SmartBuild’s Floor Plan Design System, you get to access all of these functions and MORE:

  • Interior design options
  • Floor plans
  • Material takeoffs in 2D or 3D
  • First-floor ceilings
  • Second-story floors
  • Second-story floor plans
  • Lofts and mezzanines

When it comes to making your steel building design into a well-designed home, SmartBuild Systems is here to help! Contact us today.