8 Small Barndominium Floor Plans That Feel Huge (Under 1000 Sq Ft)
Let’s face it: huge houses are overrated. They are expensive to build, impossible to clean, and cost a fortune to heat.
That is why the Small Barndominium movement is exploding in 2025.
People are trading massive mortgages for freedom. A barndominium under 1,000 square feet gives you everything you need—without the crushing debt.
Whether you are looking for a guest house, a mother-in-law suite, or just a simple minimalist home, these 8 designs prove that good things really do come in small packages.
(If you prefer the darker aesthetic, check out our viral post on Black Barndominium Trends here).
The Classic White Mini-Farmhouse
This is the American Dream, just resized.
At just 900 sq ft, this white metal home features a full wrap-around porch. The porch actually doubles your living space—perfect for rocking chairs and evening tea. It’s cute, efficient, and timeless.
The Modern “Black Box” Cabin
Who said small houses have to look cheap?
This matte black design is sleek and modern. By using large sliding glass doors, the indoor space flows right outside, making the small footprint feel massive. It’s the perfect weekend getaway spot..
The “Shouse” (Shop + House)
For many people, the garage is more important than the bedroom.
This layout dedicates 50% of the space to a workshop/garage and 50% to living quarters. It is the ultimate setup for mechanics, woodworkers, or anyone with expensive hobbies.
The Open Concept Trick
How do you make 800 sq ft feel like 1,500? You tear down the walls.
This interior shows how combining the kitchen, dining, and living room into one “Great Room” creates an airy, spacious vibe. No hallways means no wasted space.
The Sleeping Loft
When you can’t build out, build up.
By placing the bedroom in a loft, you free up the entire ground floor for living space. Plus, there is something incredibly cozy about sleeping tucked under the roof.
The Smart Layout (Floor Plan)
Here is how it all fits together.
Notice how the bathroom and kitchen plumbing are kept close together? That saves thousands of dollars in construction costs. This layout fits 2 bedrooms and 1 bath comfortably in under 1000 sq ft.
Clever Storage Solutions
In a small barndo, every inch counts.
This design uses vertical storage and multi-purpose furniture. The kitchen island doubles as a dining table, and the stairs (if you have a loft) can have drawers built right into them.
Outdoor Living Expansion
The secret to small living is the outdoors.
By adding a large deck or patio with string lights and a fire pit, you create a second living room that costs almost nothing to build.
Quick Cost Breakdown: Is it Cheaper?
Building small saves big money. Here is a rough estimate for a DIY kit vs. Turnkey build for a 1,000 sq ft Barndo.
| Construction Type | Estimated Cost | Cost Per Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|
| DIY Metal Kit (Shell Only) | $30,000 – $50,000 | $30 – $50 |
| Foundation (Concrete) | $8,000 – $12,000 | $8 – $12 |
| Interior Finishing | $50,000 – $80,000 | $50 – $80 |
| Total Turnkey Cost | $90,000 – $140,000 | $90 – $140 |
(Note: Prices vary wildly by state and material costs).
FAQ: Small Barndominium Living
1. Is 1,000 sq ft too small for a family?
It depends on the layout. A well-designed 1,000 sq ft home can comfortably house a couple and 1-2 small children. For larger families, you might need 1,500+ sq ft.
2. Can I get a loan for a small barndominium?
Yes, but it can be tricky. Some traditional banks don’t like “metal homes.” Look for local banks that offer “construction loans” or specialized rural home loans (like USDA loans).
3. Are barndominium kits worth it?
Absolutely. For small builds, buying a pre-fabricated steel kit is the fastest and cheapest way to get the structure up. You can have the shell up in just a few days.
