What Makes a Shop a Barndominium?

Understanding the Transition From Simple Shop to Stunning Living Space

When people hear the word barndominium, they picture rustic charm, open floor plans, and the perfect blend of shop practicality with home-level comfort. But what actually transforms a regular shop into a true barndominium? At BCG Builders, we specialize in creating spaces that work hard and feel like home and the difference comes down to smart design, intentional planning, and quality craftsmanship.

Here’s what really sets a barndominium apart. To learn more keep reading or check out our barndominiums page here.

1. It Starts With the Structure but It Doesn’t End There

Many barndominiums begin as a simple post-frame or steel-frame shop. The bones are the same: wide-open spans, durable materials, and a cost-effective, efficient shell.

But a barndominium takes the foundation of a shop and elevates it with layout planning, insulation, utilities, and finishing that turn it into a functional living space.

Think of it like this: A shop is built to store and work. A barndominium is built to live, relax, work, and entertain.

2. Interior Layout: Open, Flexible, and Home-Ready

The signature style of a barndominium is its open interior. Instead of the segmented rooms of a traditional home, barndominiums use wide, airy layouts with tall ceilings.

Features you’ll typically find include:

• Large great rooms combining living, dining, and kitchen areas

• Loft spaces for bedrooms or office space

• Open rafters and exposed beams

• Minimal load-bearing walls for customizable layouts

  
  

This flexibility is exactly why homeowners love the barndominium lifestyle and why every build can be truly unique.

3. Comfort Systems: Beyond a Basic Shop

A true barndominium includes full residential comfort features such as:

• Proper insulation for year-round efficiency

• Heating and cooling systems (mini-splits, furnaces, heat pumps)

• Plumbing for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry

• Electrical systems designed for residential use

These upgrades transform a work building into a comfortable home designed for long-term living.

4. Exterior Style: Rustic Meets Modern

Barndominiums often blend the traditional “barn look” with modern design elements.

Common exterior traits include:

• Metal siding and roofing

• Oversized windows

• Covered patios or wraparound porches

• Decorative timber accents

• Large shop bays attached to the home

  
  

This combination keeps the classic shop aesthetic while adding inviting, home-like curb appeal.

5. Integrated Shop Space: The Best of Both Worlds

One of the biggest appeals of a barndominium is having a shop and living space under one roof. Homeowners get:

• Hobby or business space

• RV or equipment storage

• Room for vehicles, tools, and projects

• A seamless connection between work and home

  
  

It’s efficient, practical, and cost-effective, especially for Idaho homeowners who want room to grow.

6. Custom Finishes That Bring It All to Life

The finishes are where a barndominium becomes truly personal.

Some popular choices include:

• Wood ceilings or accent walls

• Custom cabinets

• Polished concrete, LVP, or hardwood flooring

• Modern fireplaces

• High end kitchens

Whether your style is rustic, modern farmhouse, industrial, or minimalist, barndominiums are easy to customize.

Thinking About Turning Your Shop Into a Barndominium?

At BCG Builders, we help Idaho homeowners create spaces that are functional, beautiful, and built to last. Whether you’re starting with a brand-new shop design or looking to expand an existing structure, our team can guide you through layout, materials, utilities, and finishes to create the perfect barndominium.

Ready to Build?

Visit bcgidaho.com or contact BCG Builders today for a free quote. Let’s bring your dream barndominium to life, one thoughtful detail at a time. Your project is our passion.