10 Rustic Barn Ideas To Use In Your Contemporary Home

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

In our modern design world there is still a longing for living sustainably and to rekindle the nostalgia of how homeowners lived in earlier generations. Rural farming was and still is a major source of how we feed our families today and the barns and rural housing structures that once housed animals and livestock are being renovated into modern and contemporary homes. Barn conversions are a great way to revitalize old barns that otherwise would just sit in disrepair. Rustic barn details are showing up in more interior design trends, and whether you wish to renovate an old barn or just steal a few elements in style – here are 10 to bring rustic flair into your home.

1. Reclaimed timber and wood elements for your home:

lolaharder/ Twenty20

One of the most distinguishing elements of old barns is their heavy use of natural wood timber in their structure. Many barns left the exposed structure visible as these building were for utilitarian purposes as opposed to being aesthetically pleasing. Today, many homeowners are using reclaimed timber and wood in their interiors and carrying out the exposed structure vernacular as a rustic note in their home. From exposed columns in your interiors to roof trusses and exposed beams, you will love the rustic appeal it brings to your home.

2. Expansive windows make for gorgeous views:

Mint Images/ Getty Images

The beauty of old barns is there wide openings to the outdoors. Whether they were used to bring supplies through or to be able to let sunlight in to the livestock, rustic barns have the ability to set the scene for full panorama views. Consider bringing these large picture frame rectilinear windows into your home. If you’re converting an old barn ensure the new windows are eco-conscious for winter and summer heating for your new home.

3. Sliding barn doors to define your spaces

Mint Images/ Getty Images

Possibly one of the most popular design trends from rustic barns to cross over into contemporary homes is the use of the sliding barn door. Used in old barns because of the ability to close and open very large door openings without a large door swing pathway, barn doors and barn door hardware is ideal for rooms that need to be closed off without a intrusive door swing. Designers are finding new uses for these gorgeous doors for a kitchen pantry, bathroom doors, or to separate large rooms in your interiors.

4. Ensure your home is insulated if converting from a barn

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

While the appeal of exposed walls and structure can be appealing from an aesthetics view, the insulation and how comfortable the temperature is in your home should be considered. Thermal panels, rolled batt insulation, and foam insulation may be options depending on how you decide to finish off the interior of your home. Seek advice from a professional heating and air engineer or consultant to help you ensure your home is comfortable all year around.

5. Soaring ceilings create voluminous space 

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

If you like plenty of airy loftiness in your interiors, barn conversions or opening up your current ceiling to just the exposed structure is a great option. For homeowners that prefer the more finished look, dry wall can be applied to the underside of the structural members, still opening up the rooms below to wide open ceiling area. Many homeowners find opening their ceiling to the structure above makes their rooms feel larger and the opportunity to let more light through with skylights or windows is an option too.

6. Kitchens borrow farmhouse details for your modern home

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

 If you’re trying to create a kitchen that shares many of the rustic details of barn living, look to farmhouse country style for inspiration. Butcher block countertops made from wood are a rustic characteristic that many love for food preparation. Rustic pendant lighting in Benson, School House or other industrial-country inspired fixtures can illuminate your kitchen beautifully. Also look to barn door options to close off pantries and other rooms of your home.

7. Rustic kitchen amenities to brighten your interiors

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

Farmhouse wrap around sinks and matching plumbing fixtures can accompany your butcher block countertops for a kitchen that borrows rustic details from popular barn conversions. Play off of the exposed wood in your dining room and kitchen barn furniture to wake up your kitchen. Pops of color such as blue, yellow and red are often Americana colors that playfully get used throughout modern country homes.

8. Worn and weathered wood flooring to recreate vintage barn aesthetics

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

Another amenity along with barn doors that is trending in the design community is using knotty wood flooring planks that are weathered and worn looking. You can use reclaimed wood flooring from older barns for your home and get faux varieties that give a similar aesthetic. Look to natural pine, oak, and maple wood floors that have imperfections; dents, knots and strong wood grain are the perfect rustic wood flooring to get the desired look.

9. Consulting with a design professional before converting a barn

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

So you found an old barn that is in disrepair but you’re sure it can be converted into a great home for you and your family? Before you envision yourself moving in, consult with an architect or general contractor to determine what design modifications will be necessary to complete the project. Plumbing, electrical, structural and heating and air conditioning could be expensive and extensive. Know what is involved to make your newfound barn a reality.

10. Restoring old buildings is an eco-conscious way of living

Andreas von Einsiedel/ Getty Images

Whether you decide to bring rustic barn details into your home, or you plan to convert a barn into your new home, remember that reusing and repurposing old barns is a great way to make use of what is existing. In our world of new buildings being erected, it’s always nice to renovate the old and preserve its character and history for generations to come.Freshome readers what are your favorite rustic barn details that you would love in your home?