Across Central Illinois, families are discovering the appeal of barndominiums. These unique structures combine the durability of barn-style framing with the comfort and style of a custom home. From farms near Pana and Assumption to lakefront properties in Shelbyville, barndominiums are proving to be one of the most flexible and cost-effective housing solutions available today.
At Next-Gen Buildings LLC, we’ve designed and built countless custom barndominiums in Illinois, and we’ve seen firsthand how they can be tailored to fit nearly any lifestyle. If you’re considering this popular option, here’s everything you need to know about costs, design ideas, and how to plan the perfect barndominium.
Why Choose a Barndominium?
Barndominiums (often called “barndos”) are growing in popularity for good reason. They offer:
- Affordability – Lower construction costs compared to many traditional homes.
- Durability – Post frame or steel framing resists weather, pests, and fire.
- Flexibility – Open layouts allow for creative floor plans.
- Functionality – Living space can be combined with garages, shops, or storage.
- Style Options – Interiors can be rustic, modern, or anything in between.
For Illinois families, barndominiums strike a perfect balance between practicality and design freedom.
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
The cost of a barndominium in Illinois depends on several factors, including size, materials, and finishes.
- Basic Shell – Starting costs cover framing, roofing, and exterior siding.
- Interior Finishes – Kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring determine much of the final price.
- Custom Features – Garages, workshops, lofts, and porches add flexibility but also cost.
On average, Illinois barndominiums can cost anywhere from $90 to $150 per square foot, though higher-end finishes can raise that number. Compared to traditional homes, the savings often come in larger square footage and lower labor costs.
At Next-Gen, we provide detailed, transparent bids so families know exactly where their money is going.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
Your property has a major impact on design and budget. In Illinois, barndominiums are especially popular on rural land, but they also work well on large residential lots.
When choosing land:
- Check zoning laws and permits in your county.
- Ensure access to utilities like electricity, water, and septic.
- Consider soil conditions for foundations and drainage.
- Think about orientation—sunlight, views, and wind exposure.
Many clients build barndominiums on family farmland or rural properties where space allows for larger footprints and attached shops.
Step 3: Plan the Layout
The biggest advantage of barndominiums is flexibility. With wide-open spans and no interior load-bearing walls, you can design a floor plan that truly fits your lifestyle.
Popular layout ideas include:
- Great Rooms – Open living, dining, and kitchen spaces.
- Loft Bedrooms – Extra sleeping areas above living or garage space.
- Workshops – Attached shops for equipment, hobbies, or small businesses.
- Garages – Oversized bays for trucks, RVs, or boats.
- Porches & Patios – Outdoor living spaces for entertaining.
Whether you want rustic charm or modern sophistication, your barndominium layout can be completely customized.
Step 4: Pick the Right Style
Barndominiums aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some look like classic barns with metal siding, while others look like upscale custom homes.
Style options include:
- Rustic Farmhouse – Exposed beams, shiplap, and wood accents.
- Modern Industrial – Polished concrete floors, steel finishes, and open ceilings.
- Luxury Barndo – Granite counters, spa bathrooms, and custom cabinetry.
- Hybrid Designs – Combining shop space with stylish, family-friendly living.
Your builder can help you strike the right balance between durability and design.
Step 5: Think About Energy Efficiency
Central Illinois weather demands smart building practices. Energy-efficient features can keep your barndominium comfortable year-round and reduce utility bills.
Options include:
- Spray foam insulation for walls and ceilings.
- Energy-efficient windows and doors.
- Zoned HVAC systems.
- Ceiling fans for air circulation.
- Smart thermostats.
Planning these features early ensures long-term savings and comfort.
Step 6: Work With the Right Builder
Building a barndominium isn’t the same as building a traditional home. It requires experience with post frame and steel framing systems, as well as knowledge of how to integrate residential finishes.
When choosing a barndominium builder in Illinois, look for:
- Proven experience with both structural shells and residential interiors.
- Transparent, itemized bids.
- Strong references from local clients.
- A commitment to communication and customer satisfaction.
At Next-Gen, barndominiums are one of our specialties. We understand how to design layouts that work for both families and farms, all while keeping projects on budget.
Step 7: Plan for the Future
When designing your barndominium, think about how your needs may change. Do you want space for kids or grandkids to visit? Will you need more storage in the future? Could your workshop expand into a business?
Barndominiums are highly expandable, which makes them an ideal choice for families who want flexibility over the long term.
Why Barndominiums Are Perfect for Central Illinois
For families in towns like Sullivan, Effingham, and Taylorville, barndominiums offer unique advantages:
- Affordable space for both living and working.
- Durability against Illinois storms, snow, and heat.
- Open designs suited for family gatherings and rural living.
- Customization to reflect your lifestyle and taste.
They’re not just practical—they’re also a reflection of Central Illinois values: hard work, resourcefulness, and making the most of your land.
The Next-Gen Advantage
At Next-Gen Buildings LLC, we make the process simple with our design/build system. From the first conversation to the final walkthrough, one team handles everything—no juggling architects, contractors, and subs.
Our process includes:
- Initial consultation and needs assessment.
- Conceptual design tailored to your goals.
- Transparent, detailed bidding.
- Construction with skilled craftsmen.
- Final walkthrough and customer satisfaction guarantee.
We don’t just build barndominiums—we build confidence.
Start Your Barndominium Project in Illinois
If you’re ready to start planning a barndominium in Illinois, we’re here to help. At Next-Gen, we’ll guide you through design, budgeting, and construction, making sure the finished product is exactly what you envisioned.
📞 Call 217-205-6233
📧 Email sales@nextgenbuildingsil.com
📍 Visit us at 1176 County Road 1500n, Sullivan, IL 61951
🕒 Hours: 7:30–5:30 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday | 10–6 Wednesday
Let’s design and build a barndominium that’s practical, stylish, and built for your future.