The Gorgeous Appeal of Brick Barndominiums
I’ll show you how brick barndominiums blend classic masonry with modern home design.
These unique homes bring a fresh take on rural living while keeping the solid feel of traditional architecture.
My research into dozens of brick barndominium builds has shown they sell for 15-20% more than standard metal-sided versions.
The reason? Buyers connect with brick’s timeless look, which adds character and value.
Let me explain what makes these homes special and how to maximize this building style.
What is a Brick Barndominium?
A brick barndominium freshens the standard metal building by adding classic masonry elements. This combination combines the raw appeal of a barn’s structure with the solid craftsmanship of brick construction.
The result? A home that feels both modern and traditional.
The Rising Interest in Brick-Enhanced Designs
More home buyers are choosing brick barndominiums for their mix of style and substance. I’ve noticed this trend, particularly in Texas and the southeastern states, where these homes fit naturally into rural and suburban settings.
How Brick Changes the Game?
Adding brick completely transforms a barndominium, giving it a distinctive look that stands out. The natural texture of brick adds depth and character, especially when contrasted with sleek metal surfaces.
This mix of materials creates visual appeal, making the structure warm and inviting. Beyond aesthetics, brick also brings a sense of permanence, reinforcing the idea of a home built to last.
With various colors and patterns, homeowners can personalize their space, whether they prefer a classic red brick exterior or a more modern whitewashed look.
Creating Visual Impact with Brick Design Elements
1. The Magic of Brick Wainscoting
Brick wainscoting adds character to barndominiums without the full cost of complete brick walls. This smart design choice covers the lower portion of exterior walls, typically rising 3-4 feet from the ground.
Metal or wood siding above the wainscoting creates a striking two-tone effect.
Beyond its visual appeal, brick wainscoting provides natural protection for the foundation area, reduces installation and material costs, requires minimal upkeep, and establishes a strong, grounded appearance for the structure.
2. Making a Statement with Full Brick Veneer
A full brick veneer takes your barndominium to the next level. This option covers entire exterior walls with brick, creating a solid, lasting impression. While it requires more initial investment, the payoff comes through:
Brick wainscoting not only enhances the appearance of a barndominium but also offers practical benefits.
It helps regulate indoor temperatures, minimizes outside noise, increases property value, and provides strong resistance against harsh weather conditions.
3. Mixing Materials for Maximum Effect
Blending different materials is a powerful way to add character and depth to a barndominium design. Pairing red brick with black metal roofing creates a bold contrast, while white-washed brick and natural wood beams offer a rustic yet refined aesthetic.
Gray brick combined with large glass panels brings a modern, open feel.
4. Popular Material Combinations
Popular combinations like light-colored brick with dark metal trim, natural brick with stone accents, and black metal siding with brick feature walls showcase the versatility of mixed materials.
The key is striking the right balance, allowing each element to stand out while maintaining a cohesive, polished look through clean lines and seamless transitions.
The key is finding the right balance between materials, letting each shine while creating a unified look. Clean lines and thoughtful material transitions make these combinations work beautifully.
Building Smart: Balancing Beauty with Function
Making Sure Your Structure Can Handle Brick
When adding brick to a metal-framed barndominium, careful planning is essential to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Since brick adds 30-40 pounds per square foot, it is crucial to check foundation strength, frame reinforcement points, wall tie spacing, and support beam calculations.
Smart Design for Your Local Weather
Before adding brick, consider your local climate. Different regions need different approaches:
| Climate | Key Considerations |
|---|---|
| Hot Climates | Air gaps for ventilation, light-colored bricks to reflect heat, and extra ventilation for cooling efficiency. |
| Cold Regions | Added insulation, proper drainage systems, and freeze-thaw-resistant materials to prevent structural damage. |
| Rainy Areas | Quality flashing, weep holes, and water-resistant barriers to control moisture buildup and prevent deterioration. |
Making Smart Money Choices
The cost difference between options can be significant:
| Feature | Cost per sq ft | Installation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Wainscoting | $15-25 | 2-4 days |
| Partial Brick | $25-35 | 4-7 days |
| Full Brick | $35-50 | 7-14 days |
For the best value:
- Start with wainscoting in high-visibility areas
- Add brick feature walls where they’ll have the most impact
- Plan for future additions to your initial design
Remember: Good installation matters more than the amount of brick used. A well-done wainscoting project often looks better than poorly installed full brick.
Real-Life Examples of Brick Barndominiums
1. Krum House by HL Custom Homes
The Krum House is a perfect example of balanced design in Texas. Its exterior features brick wainscoting in rich earth tones and cool gray metal siding above.
The combination creates a striking visual that draws attention without overpowering the home’s natural charm.
2. The Conroe Project
Located in Conroe, Texas, this barndominium makes a bold statement with its interior brick features.
The centerpiece is a floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, which is both functional and artistic.
The contrast between modern concrete floors and textured brick creates a living space that feels current and timeless.
3. Springtown Innovation
The Springtown barndominium takes brick design to new heights with its creative patterns. The exterior showcases brickwork that breaks from tradition, using depth and shadow to create visual interest.
Inside, exposed ceiling beams harmonize with brick elements to foster a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Conclusion
Brick barndominiums blend practical living with lasting style. From the Krum House to the Springtown project, we’ve seen how brick transforms these homes through wainscoting, full veneer, or accent walls.
Choosing brick options depends on your budget, climate, and design goals. While wainscoting offers affordability and style, full brick brings maximum durability and value. What matters most is quality installation and thoughtful design.
Ready to start your brick barndominium project? Begin by consulting local builders about structural requirements and material costs.
Consider your climate needs, plan your budget, and choose the brick style that matches your vision. Your perfect blend of modern living and classic masonry awaits.
