Barndominium on a Budget? Getting the Look in Knoxville, TN
Many people are drawn to barndominiums for their rustic charm and the belief that they’re cheaper to build than traditional homes. However, true savings often come from remodeling your existing home instead. By updating a solid, well-built structure with modern, industrial-inspired finishes, you can achieve that “barndo” look without the new-build price tag.
The classic barndominium aesthetic uses wood, metal, and stone to combine rustic charm with manufacturing know-how. Open layouts, vaulted ceilings, and large windows create bright, airy spaces that feel both cozy and expansive. Forks River Construction specializes in transforming homes with this rustic-modern style, blending timeless craftsmanship and personalized design to bring your barndominium vision to life.
What Defines the Barndominium Aesthetic
The barndominium aesthetic blends modern farmhouse warmth with industrial simplicity. It’s defined by a mix of natural textures such as metal, wood, and stone paired with clean lines and an uncluttered design.
Spaces feel open and airy, often featuring vaulted or high ceilings with exposed beams or trusses. Large windows flood rooms with natural light, highlighting rustic finishes balanced with modern comfort. The result is a cozy yet expansive look that feels both functional and effortlessly stylish.
That said, it’s a misconception that barndominiums are cheaper than remodeling an existing home. Often, the materials cost on new construction comes with a higher-than-expected price tag.
Fortunately, you don’t have to build a new barndominium to enjoy the look. Forks River Construction has helped Tennessee homeowners remodel an existing home with these design elements to capture the same aesthetic at a fraction of the cost.
Master Suite Refresh
Embrace the barndominium vibe in your master suite by pairing rustic warmth with open, airy design. Add sliding barn doors between the bedroom and bath to create a functional statement feature. You can also incorporate wood accents or metal-framed mirrors as wall treatments for texture and contrast.
Keep the decor:
Minimal
Natural
Uncluttered
This helps to maintain calm and spaciousness. If your home allows, add vaulted or faux-beamed ceilings to heighten the room and bring in the architectural charm barndominiums are known for.
Opening Up Your Existing Floor Plan
Opening up your existing floor plan is one of the most effective ways to capture the barndominium feel without starting from scratch. True barndominiums emphasize spacious flow rather than specific materials with open floor plans. Removing non-load-bearing walls between spaces like the kitchen and living room immediately creates that open, communal atmosphere.
For a dramatic transformation, consider raising your ceiling height by adjusting truss structures. This can be achieved by removing the bottom side of some trusses and selective joists, creating a cathedral-style ceiling that expands visual space.
Even modest updates, such as partial-height openings or adding faux beams, can evoke the airy, open sensation of a full barndominium while maintaining the comfort and practicality of your current home. Working with a licensed contractor ensures structural safety before making changes.
Kitchen Updates for the “Barndo” Look
The kitchen is the heart of any barndo-style home, anchoring the entire design. To create the look, start with reclaimed wood shelving and matte black fixtures for character and contrast.
Replacing upper cabinets with open shelving helps maintain an airy, barn-inspired feel while showcasing natural textures. Wide-plank flooring, shaker-style cabinetry, and a palette of neutral but warm tones bring a sense of comfort and simplicity. Finish the space with a thoughtful blend of stainless steel and rustic materials to balance modern convenience with farmhouse charm—the signature mix that defines barndominium kitchens.
Choose Forks River To Give Your Home a Rustic Facelift
Forks River Construction is the perfect partner for updating your home with barndominium style. Our expertise in kitchen and master suite remodels shines through a personalized design process that guides you from vision to material selections with care.
Specializing in historic Knoxville homes, we blend rustic aesthetics with modern function, ensuring your updates capture barndominium-inspired:
Openness
Reclaimed wood textures
Industrial touches
With Forks River, you’ll benefit from clear communication, daily site cleanups, and a dedicated project manager focused on quality and your peace of mind. We make it effortless to achieve a custom, stylish transformation that honors your home’s unique character.
Want to learn more about giving your home a barndominium facelift? Contact us online or give us a call at 865-316-6692 to talk to our experts today.
