Multi-Family Barndominiums

Multi-family barndominiums are the perfect way to bring families together while enjoying the rustic charm they have to offer. Learn more about the benefits and features to look for in multi-family barndominiums to help you decide if they are for you.

Multi-family housing has been on the rise in the US since 2007, increasing at a surprising rate. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans today are living in multi-generational housing situations. Family compounds, multi-family, multi-generational, and next-gen housing are all different terms for the same concept: family living with family. Sometimes this may mean older generations living with their children and/or grown children continuing to stay with parents into adulthood when they are more financially stable. The barndominium community is bursting at the seams with interest in these types of homes, and many are asking, “Is a multi-family barndominium even possible?”

Multi-family Barndominiums: Why Do We Need Them?

There are many reasons why someone may choose to look into multi-family living situations when building or buying a home. With the aging baby boomer generation living longer than any generation before it, more and more people are looking to have their aging parents taken care of. Other reasons for seeking out multi-family barndominiums are

• College-age children who are not yet financially stable
• Relatives with special-needs who are not able to live independently
• Family and friends who need a place to stay for an extended period of time (think grandkids, holidays)
• Real estate investors who are looking into building/buying multi-family barndominiums for renting purposes

Whatever your reason for considering a multi-family barndominium, it can be an effective way to get all of the people you love together in an affordable way.

Why should you choose a Multi-family Barndominiums?

Why should you build a barndominium specifically when choosing a multi-family housing option?

1. Construction Options

Barndominiums are extremely versatile. Unlike traditional homes, barndominiums are very customizable. They can span large areas with ease and without load bearing support, since they are mostly constructed with steel trusses. This is why you see large shopping centers without vertical beams or support poles. Because of this, there is a lot of freedom with the floor plan in a barndo. This makes a barndominium the perfect multi-family housing solution.

2. Easy to Construct

Barndominiums are easy to construct. If you use a builder or metal fabricator, the building will go up in a fraction of the time that it would take a traditionally framed home. Additionally, if you are a true DIYer, you can buy a building kit and construct the building on your own, saving thousands.

3. Durability

Barndominiums can withstand the elements better than most home constructions. They will not rot or burn like wood framing does. They are stronger when in a storm, tornado, or earthquake. There will not be issues with termites. Also, the owner may get a break on their insurance due to these things being less of an issue with these types of homes.

Pros and Cons of Multi-family Barndominiums

Pros

The obvious benefit of building a barndominium for multiple families or family members to live in together is being together and being able to care for someone who needs that supervision. However, many choose to build or buy multi-family barndominiums without needing to.

One major benefit is the shared expense. Building or buying two properties is double the price, and this could mean serious financial freedom for property owners. As well, the shared home responsibilities allow for more quality time together.

Not only will the members of the home share the main home expense, they will also benefit from sharing many of the other expenses as well, such as insurance, internet and television, trash, utilities, etc. That can amount to a large monthly savings. Additionally, if you are an investor looking into building/buying multi-family housing, you are lowering your risk by housing multiple families at one time.

Cons

Having multiple families and/or a large number of people under one roof can be challenging.

Everyone has different home routines and expectations, and this makes it so important to make considerations for privacy and alone time for each family member. And although, there are a ton of cost savings, as described above, the structure will cost more upfront to create a space that is large and effective to house multiple families.

Tips for Building a Multi-family Barndominium

1. Private Zones

In a multi-family barndominium, it is very important to be creative about carving out private areas for each family member or guest. Since more people under one roof can be more chaotic, having a bedroom specifically for each person may help everyone to have a place to retreat to when necessary. Other worthy considerations would be multiple outdoor spaces, extra garage space for many vehicles, and lots of storage space for each family.

2. Ground Floor Accessibility

Making a space for aging relatives, or those with disabilities, means thinking about accessibility. Multiple levels in a home can be a great addition, especially when housing multiple generations; however, the main floor needs to be ADA accessible for wheelchairs and other assistive devices. Once you are to a certain age, climbing stairs isn’t really an option, and all the necessities (laundry room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom) need to be on the main floor. Many find it important to include multiple master suites on the main floor for this reason as well.

For two small families, the below floor plan shows two master suites on the main floor in a split floor plan style. This may be the best option for this multi family situation; however, it is not a floor plan that most would consider, having two master suites on the main level. Many who decide to build multi family spaces find it advantageous to be creative with their floor plan.

3. Large and/or Multiple Common Areas

Multi-family barndominiums need common spaces that are large enough for everyone to be together; however, there are going to be occasions where family members want to engage in different activities and should be able to do so.

For example, the kids may want to play video games while the adults enjoy a quiet conversation. Therefore, additional living spaces may be necessary in a multi-family build. Many see this as an opportunity to also look at planning for multiple outdoor living spaces as well.

One of our recent featured barndominium owners, Chelsey Burner does an excellent job of including multiple living spaces (a living room, a game room, and a movie room) creatively all in 2800 square feet. Her barndominium would be a great multi family space. You can check out the rest of her pictures here.

4. Private Entrances

Private entrances may be a necessity in a multi-family home, depending on the situation. Real estate investors who plan to rent out multiple spaces in a structure will surely need for there to be multiple locking entrances. This would also be essential for those who live in the home but also wish to rent out a portion of it. This would give the ability to have true privacy from the other family in the home.

Families who do not rent separately may also benefit from this element in their multi-family barndominium for privacy when entering and exiting. This may look like a locking door on a separate level, or it could be an entire guest house situation for an individual or couple.

Multi-Family Barndominium Floor Plans

BCO-40081-GS Barndominium House Plan

• An expansive 4,210 sq ft layout designed for large families, multi-generational living, and comfortable entertaining.
• A fully integrated generational suite featuring its own living room, kitchenette, two bedrooms, and dedicated bathrooms—perfect for extended family, guests, or independent living within the home.
• Five generously sized bedrooms, including a luxurious master suite and two private bedrooms within the Gen-Suite wing.
• Well-appointed bathrooms throughout the home, including private Gen-Suite baths and a convenient powder room for guests.
• Bright, flowing kitchen, dining, and living room space ideal for hosting, relaxing, and everyday family life.
• Dedicated office near the foyer, ideal for working from home or managing daily tasks.
• Defined foyer that creates a welcoming first impression and organized entry point.
• A large three-car garage offering generous room for vehicles, storage, and workspace needs.
• Wide covered porch that extends your living outdoors—ideal for relaxing evenings and entertaining guests.

PL-2819-GS Barndominium House Plan

• An impressive 4,918 sq ft, two-story design offering expansive living space ideal for large families and multi-generational households.
• Fully integrated generational suite featuring its own private living room, kitchenette, bedroom, bath, and direct access—perfect for extended family, guests, or independent living within the home.
• Three spacious bedrooms including a luxurious master suite, secondary bedroom, and a private Gen-Suite bedroom for added flexibility.
• Massive loft overlooking the main living space—perfect for a second family room, game area, or media space.
• Dramatic open-to-below areas enhance natural light and create a grand, airy feel in the main living space.
• A substantial unfinished space upstairs offers future expansion potential—ideal for additional bedrooms, hobby rooms, or storage.
• Practical mudroom with built-in storage and adjacent laundry room keeps daily routines organised and clutter-free.
• Dedicated mechanical space keeps essential systems neatly housed and out of main living areas.
• Generously sized garage providing ample space for vehicles, storage, and workshop needs.
• Large covered porches wrap around key areas of the home, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living and ideal spaces for relaxing or entertaining.

PL-60707-GS Barndominium House Plan

• An expansive 6,500 sq ft, two-story design created for large households, multi-generational living, and exceptional everyday comfort.
• Seven generously sized bedrooms—including a luxurious master suite, Gen-Suite bedrooms, and upstairs bedrooms—paired with six full bathrooms and a half bath for ultimate convenience.
• Fully equipped generational suite featuring its own living room, kitchenette, two bedrooms, bathrooms, and private circulation space—perfect for extended family, guests, or independent living.
• Dedicated office space provides a quiet environment for working from home or managing daily tasks.
• Versatile recreation room offers the perfect space for hobbies, games, or a secondary entertainment area.
• Large upstairs school or learning room ideal for homeschooling, studying, crafting, or creative projects.
• Dedicated mechanical spaces efficiently house home systems while keeping them out of main living areas.
• Multiple storage areas throughout the home help keep seasonal items, equipment, and supplies neatly organised.
• Large unfinished attic sections provide excellent opportunities for future expansion or additional storage.
• Generous covered porches extend living outdoors, creating comfortable areas for relaxing or entertaining year-round.
• A massive four-car garage offers ample room for vehicles, tools, equipment, or workshop space.

PL-60707-GS Barndominium House Plan

• An expansive 6,500 sq ft, two-story design created for large households, multi-generational living, and exceptional everyday comfort.
• Seven generously sized bedrooms—including a luxurious master suite, Gen-Suite bedrooms, and upstairs bedrooms—paired with six full bathrooms and a half bath for ultimate convenience.
• Fully equipped generational suite featuring its own living room, kitchenette, two bedrooms, bathrooms, and private circulation space—perfect for extended family, guests, or independent living.
• Dedicated office space provides a quiet environment for working from home or managing daily tasks.
• Versatile recreation room offers the perfect space for hobbies, games, or a secondary entertainment area.
• Large upstairs school or learning room ideal for homeschooling, studying, crafting, or creative projects.
• Dedicated mechanical spaces efficiently house home systems while keeping them out of main living areas.
• Multiple storage areas throughout the home help keep seasonal items, equipment, and supplies neatly organised.
• Large unfinished attic sections provide excellent opportunities for future expansion or additional storage.
• Generous covered porches extend living outdoors, creating comfortable areas for relaxing or entertaining year-round.
• A massive four-car garage offers ample room for vehicles, tools, equipment, or workshop space.

PL-62103-GS Barndominium House Plan

• Massive 4,710 SF single-story layout provides unparalleled space for family life, hobbies, and grand-scale entertaining.
• Six-bedroom floor plan includes a private primary retreat, three spacious guest rooms, and two additional bedrooms within the Gen-suite.
• Four-and-a-half bathrooms offer total convenience, including a dedicated powder room for guests and private ensuite options.
• Self-contained Gen-suite features two dedicated bedrooms, a private living area, a functional kitchenette, and its own laundry space.
• Centralized media room provides the perfect sound-dampened spot for movie nights, gaming, or a home theater setup.
• Unique pet parlor offers a specialized space for grooming and pampering your furry family members.
• Enormous 4-car garage delivers ample room for a full vehicle fleet, a workshop, and seasonal storage.
• Huge front porch and a massive 40-foot wide rear patio create incredible opportunities for indoor-outdoor hosting and relaxation.
• Well-placed mud room and separate storage closet off the garage keep daily clutter out of the main living areas.

PL-62521-GS Barndominium House Plan

• Massive 4,467 SF floor plan provides expansive room for family life and entertaining across one accessible level.
• Comprehensive sleeping quarters include a secluded master retreat, two secondary guest rooms, and two additional bedrooms tucked within the private Gen-suite.
• Four full bathrooms and two convenient half-baths (Powder and W.C.) ensure every wing of the home remains functional and private.
• Dedicated multi-generational wing features two bedrooms, a full bath, private laundry, and a combined living and kitchenette area for total independence.
• Oversized 24′ x 15′ media space provides the ultimate environment for movie nights, gaming, or a secluded home office.
• Covered front porch and a large rear patio offer over 450 SF of sheltered space for outdoor hosting and relaxation.
• Two separate laundry areas—one in the main house and one in the Gen-suite—make household management effortless.

PL-62748-GS Barndominium House Plan

• Impressive 4,431 SF layout provides vast living spaces across two levels, perfect for maintaining privacy in a bustling household.
• Seven incredible sleeping quarters include a luxurious main-floor master, a guest room and gensuite bedroom on the first level, and four additional bedrooms upstairs.
• Plentiful bathroom facilities ensure total convenience for residents and guests, including private ensuites and centrally located hall baths.
• Private multi-generational wing features its own living area, kitchenette, dedicated bedroom, and full bath for complete independence.
• Expansive central gathering space boasts a cozy fireplace and a dramatic curved staircase leading to the second floor.
• Massive Game & Media Room: Centrally located upstairs loft serves as a versatile hub for movie nights, gaming, or a spacious teenage lounge.
• Enormous L-shaped porch provides over 1,000 SF of sheltered outdoor space for dining, relaxing, and enjoying the view.
• Integrated attic spaces on the second level offer convenient, out-of-sight storage for seasonal items and household gear.
• Second-story landing features a stylish balcony overlooking the family room, enhancing the home’s open and airy feel.

PL-71011-GS Barndominium House Plan

• Single-story design offers expansive living areas and seamless transitions without a single staircase to navigate.
• Sleeping quarters include a grand master retreat, a guest room in the main house, and two additional bedrooms within the private Gen-suite.
• Four full bathrooms and two convenient powder rooms ensure every wing of the home has private and guest-ready facilities.
• Self-contained living area features two bedrooms, a full bath, kitchenette, private living room, and its own dedicated 1-car garage.
• Dedicated media space provides the ultimate environment for cinematic movie nights or immersive gaming.
• Three-car storage is split between a primary 2-car garage for the main house and a private 1-car bay for the Gen-suite.
• Grand rear porch with a built-in fireplace and a cozy central front porch offer over 850 SF of sheltered outdoor space.

PL-71011-HGS Barndominium House Plan

• Massive 4,162 SF layout offers extensive room for families to grow and thrive on one accessible level.
• Self-contained wing features independent bedroom, full bath, laundry, living area, and functional kitchenette.
• Spacious sleeping quarters include grand master retreat, three guest rooms in main home, and private Gen-suite bedroom.
• Five full bathrooms and one convenient powder room ensure total privacy and accessibility for all residents.
• Enormous 68-foot wide garage provides over 2,200 SF of space for massive vehicle collections or a dream workshop.
• Two distinct rear porches and large central front porch offer multiple sheltered zones for relaxation.
• Integrated organization hub off the 3-car garage simplifies household management with dedicated counter space and storage.

PL-71101-PGS Barndominium House Plan

• Extensive 4,020 SF single-level layout provides an open, airy atmosphere with zero stairs for ultimate accessibility and ease of movement.
• Versatile sleeping quarters include a secluded master retreat, two spacious guest rooms, and a fully independent bedroom within the Gen-suite.
• High-end bath configuration offers private ensuites for main residents plus two convenient powder rooms for guests and entertaining.
• Self-contained living wing features a dedicated bedroom, full bath, and cozy kitchenette, providing perfect independence for parents or guests.
• Massive central gathering space serves as the home’s heartbeat, featuring a cozy fireplace and seamless flow into the dining area.
• Quiet front-facing study offers the ideal environment for remote work, creative projects, or a peaceful library retreat.
• Enormous rear porch setup includes a fully equipped outdoor kitchen for the ultimate premium alfresco entertaining experience.
• Smart parking design includes a primary 2-car garage for the main house and a separate 1-car bay for a workshop or third vehicle.
• Generous front and rear covered porches provide over 2,300 SF of sheltered outdoor space for morning coffee or scenic sunset views.
• Integrated organization zone off the garage keeps the main living areas tidy with built-in storage and efficient utility access.

Building a Multi-Family Barndominium

All of these things considered, bulding or buying a multi-family barndominium is a great choice. If you are looking to get starting building your dream barndominium, pick up a copy of our book, “Build Your Dream Barndominium”. It will give you, step by step, everything you need to get started.