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What is a Barndominium?

“The term barndominium—sometimes abbreviated to “barndo”—is a combination of the words barn and condominium, coined in 1989 by developer Karl Nilsen,” says Kristina Mcguirk of Better Homes and Gardens.

In its simplest definition, a barndominium is a reinvented barn that serves as not just a shelter for livestock or storage of agricultural items, but a cozy and homely living space for the modern rural individual or family. In our own journey, we've come to understand that a barndominium isn't just a repurposed barn but also a transformative space that goes beyond traditional rural functionality. Having experienced the evolution of construction methods, we've realized the freedom it gives homeowners like us to infuse our unique styles and tailor the space to meet our specific needs. We can say that more than sheltering livestock or storing farm equipment, it really is about creating a warm and inviting home that resonates with the modern rural lifestyle.

tiny house barndominium interior room colors
Photo by Brian Wangenheim on Unsplash

Why Color Matters in Your Barndominium Interior Tiny House Plans

Having navigated the exciting world of interior design, we can't stress enough how crucial color is in transforming your barndominium into a true masterpiece. It's not just about creating a visually stunning space but also about setting the right vibes. Colors aren't just pigments on the wall –they're mood creators! The hues you choose can make your space feel larger, cozier, or even influence your emotions. In our own journey, we've seen how the color palette of our barndominium played a starring role in shaping our overall tiny house experience. So, when you're painting your walls, always remember: it's not just color; it's the mood you're bringing to life in your living space.

Exploring Top Trending Color Schemes for Barndominiums

Breaking Down Trending Barndominium Colors

Based on the ever-evolving tapestry of design trends we've encountered, let's spill the beans on the colors that are stealing the spotlight in barndominiums this year!

1. Earthy Tones

Rich browns, warm beiges, and calming greens continue to be crowd-pleasers. It's like bringing a piece of nature indoors, and who wouldn't love that?

2. Navy Blue

This deep, sophisticated hue is making waves. Whether as an accent or a primary color, it adds a touch of elegance and modern flair.

3. Terracotta

Embracing the warmth of terracotta is like giving your barndominium a cozy, sun-kissed glow. It's the color equivalent of a comforting hug.

4. Sage Green 

Soft, muted, and oh-so-chic, sage green is a breath of fresh air. It effortlessly blends tranquility with a contemporary vibe.

5. Charcoal Gray 

For those who crave a touch of drama, charcoal gray is the go-to choice. It's bold, versatile, and brings a modern edge to your living space.

Remember, these trends are like the hottest songs of the season – enjoy them, but feel free to personalize based on your own preferences!

Stylish Color Choices for Modern Barndominiums

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

City Chic Color Combinations

Having explored the modern marvels of barndominium interior, one thing stands out for us: the captivating fusion of city chic and rustic charm. It's like bringing the best of both worlds under one roof.

Picture this: sleek, city-inspired colors meeting the warm, earthy tones of the countryside. The result? A masterpiece that resonates with sophistication and down-to-earth allure.

In these interiors, you'll find urban shades like muted grays, crisp whites, and sophisticated blacks coexisting harmoniously with the rustic palette of browns, beiges, and greens. As we've observed, it really is a design love story where the sleek lines of the city shake hands with the rugged beauty of the countryside, creating a space that's not just a tiny house but a visual adventure.

So, if you're dreaming of a home that combines the elegance of the city with the soul of the country, we can already say that the modern barndominium interior is your canvas.

Transitioning from Rustic to Chic with Color

Unlocking the secret to an ingenious transition from rustic to chic is like mastering the art of color alchemy. Here's our crash course on making the magic happen:

1. Neutral Foundation

Start with a neutral base. Think whites, creams, or light grays. This not only brightens up your space but also provides a clean canvas for your color journey.

2. Accent Pops

Introduce pops of chic colors strategically. Think jewel tones, muted pastels, or even bold shades. These accents become your style statements, injecting a dose of sophistication.

3. Metallic Touch

Don't shy away from metallics. Golds, silvers, or bronzes can instantly elevate the chic factor. Picture rustic wooden elements paired with shimmering metallic finishes—it's a match made in design heaven.

4. Statement Furniture

Invest in a few key pieces of furniture in contemporary styles and chic colors. They become the focal points that seamlessly bridge the rustic and chic elements in your space.

5. Natural Elements

Merge chic with rustic by incorporating natural textures. Think exposed wooden beams, stone accents, or even a statement plant. They add warmth and charm while keeping things fresh.

Remember, it's all about balance. With a strategic play of colors and thoughtful design choices, you can expedite your journey from rustic to chic without losing an ounce of that desired charm. Happy decorating!

Traditional Color Schemes: Preserving Countryside Charm

tiny house barndominium interior rustic color scheme
Photo by reisetopia on Unsplash

Rustic Color Selections for Barndominiums

However, we think that not all homeowners are swayed by the allure of chic. And there's a timeless beauty in embracing the traditional countryside charm through a rustic color selection. For those who find comfort and joy in the warmth of classic hues, here's our roadmap to rustic bliss:

1. Earthy Palette

Go for the classics – deep browns, warm beiges, and greens reminiscent of the natural surroundings. It's like bringing the serenity of the countryside indoors.

2. Weathered Finishes

Opt for furniture and decor with weathered or distressed finishes. These textures add character and tell a story of time passing, perfectly aligning with the rustic aesthetic.

3. Natural Materials

Embrace the beauty of natural materials. Wood, stone, and wrought iron become your design allies, grounding your space in authenticity.

4. Cozy Textiles

Introduce cozy textiles in earthy tones. Think plaid blankets, woven rugs, and soft, muted fabrics that invite you to sink into comfort.

5. Vintage Accents

Incorporate vintage or antique accents. They bring a sense of history and nostalgia, echoing the simplicity and charm of rural life.

For us, choosing a rustic color palette isn't just a design decision; it's a lifestyle choice. It's about creating a space that feels like a warm hug from the countryside every time you walk through the door.

Defining the Style for Your Barndominium

Speaking from our own style-seeking adventures, figuring out your personal flair is like unlocking the secret code to the perfect color scheme for your barndominium. According to the Barndominium Life, “Choosing the right barndominium exterior color is like picking the perfect outfit – it’s all about making an impression that suits your style.” – and we totally agree with it! It's really about infusing your space with vibes that scream "you." We've learned that once you've got a handle on your personal style, it becomes this magical compass guiding every design decision. 

Photo by Andrea Davis on Unsplash

Barndominium Color Schemes

Now let's talk about emotions and moods in your barndominium. Warm hues like red, orange, and yellow? Buckle up for an energy boost; they're like a shot of espresso for your living space, revving up the activity vibes. On the flip side, cool colors—hello, blue, green, and purple—bring a zen-like calmness, like a gentle breeze for your soul.

Now, here's the juicy part: when you're crafting your color scheme, we recommend you think about the vibe you want in each room. 

From Monotonous to Vibrant

In our design adventures, we stumbled upon a secret weapon which is the magic of mixing and matching! A symphony of different shades dancing across rooms, creating a visual masterpiece. It's like giving each space its own personality.

Contrasting colors are the heroes here, injecting life into what could be a snooze-fest of monotony. We've experimented with bold pairings that sparked energy and subtle blends that whispered sophistication. The key is to play matchmaker with colors that, on the surface, seem like an odd couple but, when together, create pure design magic.

So, when you're feeling adventurous, we suggest you let your creative flag fly. Mix those shades, embrace the contrast, and watch your barndominium transform into a canvas of excitement and intrigue.

Mixing and Matching for the Perfect Palette

From our own color escapades in barndominium bliss, we've learned that nailing the perfect palette is an art – a delicate dance between harmony and contrast. Just think about the colors waltzing together, creating a symphony of visual delight.

Here's our secret for you – a dash of color theory mastery. Think of it as your design compass, guiding you through the vast palette possibilities. Harmony, where colors whisper in agreement, bringing a sense of cohesion. Contrast, where they playfully argue, creating sparks of visual excitement.

So, before you dive into the paint cans, take a moment to understand color theory, just like we did! It's like having the backstage pass to the greatest show on earth – your barndominium coming to life in a perfect palette performance.

tiny house stylish barndominium interior
Photo by Brian Wangenheim on Unsplash

Creating Your Stylish Barndominium

Planning Your Color Scheme

Impact of Lighting on Your Color Choices

Navigating the colorful world of your barndominium is like being a lighting magician – it can make or break the show. Here's our enlightening guide on understanding the dynamic dance between color schemes and lighting:

1. Natural Light Magic

If your barndominium is blessed with abundant natural light, colors tend to shine vividly. We suggest you think about how the sun's rays will play with your chosen hues throughout the day, bringing out their true essence.

2. Warm vs. Cool Lighting

Just like what we did, you have to consider the temperature of your artificial lighting. Warm lighting (yellows and oranges) can enhance the coziness of rustic tones, while cool lighting (blues and whites) can amplify the sleekness of chic colors. It's like choosing the right spotlight for your color stars

3. Directional Drama

Our advice? The direction of light matters. A color can look different in north-facing rooms compared to south-facing ones. Test your chosen palette in various lighting conditions to ensure it steals the show in every corner.

4. Evening Elegance

As the sun sets, artificial lighting takes center stage. Make sure your color scheme looks as captivating under artificial light as it does in daylight. This is your chance to create a magical ambiance when the stars come out.

In essence, understanding the play of light on your color palette is like being a color maestro. It ensures that your barndominium dazzles under any spotlight, creating an ever-changing canvas that evolves with the rhythm of the day.

tiny house gray barndominium interior
Photo by MINDY JACOBS on Unsplash

Choosing Colors Based on Space and Function

Moreover, based on our own experience, we can say that the color scheme of a room should complement its function. For example, relaxing colors can be chosen for bedrooms, while lively, inspiring colors can be used in work or study areas.

Design Tips for Creating Balance and Consistency

Achieving the perfect balance in your color scheme is like conducting a symphony – it requires finesse, harmony, and a keen eye for detail. Here's our guide to orchestrating that delicate balance in your barndominium:

1. The Rule of Three

Pick a primary color, a secondary color, and an accent color. This trio forms the backbone of your palette. Let the primary color dominate, the secondary support, and the accent shine in strategic places. It's like having the lead, supporting, and cameo roles in a well-scripted play.

2. Neutral Anchors

Integrate neutral tones like whites, creams, or grays to anchor your color palette. These act as a visual pause, preventing your space from feeling too overwhelming. It's the calming force that ensures your colors play together nicely.

3. Tonal Harmony

Stick to a cohesive color family. Whether you're into warm earthy tones or cool blues, maintaining a consistent tonal harmony ties your space together. It's like telling a color story that unfolds seamlessly in every room.

4. Mindful Distribution

Be mindful of where and how you distribute colors. Balance bold hues with neutrals, and don't overload one area with too much intensity. It's the art of distribution that ensures every color gets its moment to shine.

5. Consider Visual Flow

Think about the flow of your space. Colors should transition smoothly from room to room, creating a visual narrative. It's like composing a melody that carries you through the entire symphony of your small house.

In the end, achieving color balance is about creating a space that feels cohesive, intentional, and visually pleasing. It's your chance to be the maestro of your barndominium's color symphony.

Conclusion

In our own barndominium adventures, we've come to realize that design trends are like the wind—ever-changing but with the power to shape the landscape. As fellow barndominium enthusiasts, we want to share some insights and a bit of crystal ball gazing into the potential color trends that might grace our beloved spaces in the future.

With this comprehensive guide in hand, you're not just armed with knowledge; you're equipped with the lessons we've learned along the way. Your barndominium is your canvas, and the colors you choose are the strokes of your personal masterpiece. So, as you step in this colorful journey, remember, it's not just about trends; it's about crafting a small house that tells your story, in hues that sing to your heart. Here's to the colorful chapters of your barndominium tale!

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