What We Do

Custom Built Barndominiums

WHAT WE DO

Custom Built Barndominiums in Central Illinois

The idea of home is changing, and one of the most exciting trends is the barndominium—a modern living space that blends the durability of a barn with the comfort of a custom-built home. At Next-Gen Buildings LLC, we specialize in designing and constructing custom barndominiums for families, hobbyists, and rural property owners across Sullivan, Effingham, Pana, Taylorville, Paris, Shelbyville, and Assumption.

Barndominiums are more than a passing trend—they’re practical, cost-effective, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you want an open-concept family home, a combined living-and-workshop space, or a stylish rural retreat, our team can bring your vision to life.

Why Choose a Barndominium?

Barndominiums offer a unique combination of strength, style, and versatility. They’re built using post frame or steel-frame methods, which allow for wide, open interiors without the need for load-bearing walls. This means your layout is almost limitless.

Key advantages include: 

Durability

Metal and post frame structures stand up to Illinois storms, winds, and seasonal changes.

Affordabilit

Typically more cost-effective to build per square foot than traditional homes.

Design Flexibility

Huge open interiors give you the freedom to create any floor plan you want.

Low Maintenance

Exterior materials like steel siding and roofing require less upkeep than traditional finishes.

Multi-Use Potential

Live, work, and play in the same building with attached garages, workshops, or barns.

Energy Efficiency

With modern insulation and HVAC, barndominiums can be just as efficient as traditional homes.

It’s no wonder families and property owners throughout Central Illinois are turning to barndominiums as their housing solution.

Our Approach to Custom Barndominiums

At Next-Gen, every barndominium is built around your lifestyle. We don’t offer cookie-cutter floor plans; we create tailored designs that match how you want to live. Some clients prefer simple, functional designs with plenty of shop or storage space. Others want upscale finishes, large kitchens, and luxury master suites. Many want both—and that’s where the barndominium shines.

Our team guides you through every decision:

1. Layout – From single-level ranch styles to multi-story builds with lofts.

2. Exterior Design – Choose from metal siding, wood accents, stone features, and modern trim packages.

3. Interior Finishes – Rustic farmhouse, sleek modern, or classic traditional—it’s all possible.

4. Attached Spaces – Garages, workshops, stables, or recreational areas built under the same roof.

5. Outdoor Living – Covered porches, decks, and patios that extend your usable space.

We combine creativity with practicality, ensuring your barndominium looks incredible and functions perfectly.

Our Process

The Next-Gen Barndominium Building Process

Building a barndominium with Next-Gen is a collaborative, transparent process designed to keep you comfortable from concept to completion:

Our clients love this approach because it eliminates the finger-pointing that happens when architects and contractors are separate. With us, you have one team, one process, and one clear path to your new barndominium.

Endless Customization Options

Your barndominium can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Here are some of the popular features we’ve built for clients across Illinois:

1. Massive great rooms with vaulted ceilings and exposed beams.

2. Chef’s kitchens with oversized islands, double ovens, and custom cabinetry.

3. Loft spaces for kids’ rooms, play areas, or guest suites.

4. Attached shops or garages with oversized doors for RVs, tractors, or hobby vehicles.

5. Horse stalls or barns integrated into the structure for equestrian properties.

6. Luxury bathrooms with walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and dual vanities.

7. Energy-efficient upgrades like spray foam insulation and solar-ready setups.

With our design/build expertise, no idea is too big. We help you balance creativity with budget, ensuring you get the features that matter most.

Barndominiums vs. Traditional Homes

Clients often ask why they should consider a barndominium instead of a standard custom home. While both offer customization and comfort, barndominiums stand out for affordability, speed of construction, and adaptability. 

01

Traditional homes may take longer and cost more per square foot.

02

Barndominiums allow for larger, more open interiors at lower cost.

03

Maintenance is often easier with steel exteriors and roofing.

04

The ability to combine living and work/storage space under one roof is unmatched.

That said, barndominiums aren’t just for rural properties—they’re increasingly popular in small towns across Central Illinois as stylish alternatives to traditional homes.

Our Areas

Serving Central Illinois Communities

Our barndominium projects stretch across Sullivan, Effingham, Pana, Taylorville, Paris, Shelbyville, and Assumption. Each community has its own character, and we adapt designs accordingly:

Sullivan & Shelbyville

Lakeside barndominiums with outdoor living and recreational storage.

Effingham & Pana

Family-focused layouts with modern kitchens and spacious great rooms.

Taylorville & Paris

Durable builds with flexible shop/garage spaces for rural living.

Assumption

Multi-purpose designs that combine family living with farm functionality.

By blending modern design with local knowledge, we create barndominiums that are both beautiful and practical. 

Sullivan, IL

Effingham, IL

Pana, IL

Taylorville, IL
Paris, IL
Shelbyville, IL

Assumption, IL

WHAT WE DO

Building for the Long Term

When you invest in a barndominium, you’re not just building for today—you’re building for the next 30, 40, or even 50 years. That’s why we emphasize:

1. Structural integrity with strong framing and durable roofing.

2. Weather resistance for Illinois winters, storms, and hot summers.

3. Energy performance to lower monthly utility bills.

4. Low-maintenance finishes that keep your home looking great with less effort.

At Next-Gen, we see each barndominium as a legacy project—something that should last for generations.

The Next-Gen Difference

What sets Next-Gen Buildings apart as a barndominium builder in Illinois is our commitment to people first, projects second. We’re not just erecting structures—we’re creating homes, workshops, and retreats that families depend on every day.

1. Transparent bidding means no budget surprises.

2. Design/build integration means fewer delays and miscommunications.

3. Hands-on management means we stay involved until the last detail is complete.

4. Customer satisfaction guarantee means if you’re not happy, we’re not finished.

This approach has earned us the trust of families, farmers, and property owners across Central Illinois. 

Get in touch

Ready to Build Your Barndominium?

A barndominium could be the perfect solution for your family, your lifestyle, or your property. At Next-Gen Buildings LLC, we combine creativity, craftsmanship, and local expertise to deliver results that exceed expectations.

Call 217-205-6233, email sales@nextgenbuildingsil.com, or visit us at 1176 County Road 1500n, Sullivan, IL 61951. Our hours are 7:30–5:30 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and 10–6 Wednesday.

Let’s start with a conversation about your goals and ideas. Together, we’ll design and build a custom barndominium in Central Illinois that you’ll love coming home to for years to come.

Call Us

217-205-6233