Houses have gotten more expensive than ever, and those sky-high prices are discouraging. It’s to the point where many of us wish we could just build our dream home. What if we told you that it’s possible with a barndominium?
Taking the DIY route makes home building much more rewarding. You get to choose your own materials, tweak your house plan yourself, and work with only the people you trust to make your dream home a reality. There’s a sense of pride and ownership that’s hard to match.
A barndominium essentially combines a barn-like structure with modern comforts. It’s a cost-effective solution, especially for those who want lots of space and the ability to customize. For those who love DIY, a barndominium is the way to go.
You can take on as much—or as little—of the construction as you want. With experience in construction, you might choose to act as the owner-contractor to save you thousands in labor costs. If you’d rather leave it to the experts, hiring a professional barndominium builder, or purchasing a barndominium kit, fosters a smooth process.
The possibilities are endless. And if you’re looking for inspiration, this Texas barndominium is the DIY dream. With plenty of open land and a strong rural culture, building a barndominium in Texas is a smart move.
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Overview
It’s not surprising that so many Texans choose to build barndominiums. Early agricultural families built them out of necessity, and their influence can still be seen today. Barndos today go beyond housing livestock—they’re a modern take on a centuries-old concept: the live-and-work space.
This Texas barndominium is a labor of DIY love by Roger Sandmann. At 1,456 sq ft, it includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a separate shop nearby. The home showcases self-sufficiency at its best. Check out the entire floor plan below!
One of the home’s biggest highlights is its water system. Instead of drilling an expensive well, Roger built a rainwater collection system for around $18,000. Rainwater is collected from the roof, with a first flush diverter making sure the cleanest water enters the tank.
The storage tank, which is a repurposed grain bin with a liner, holds 6,500 gallons. There’s also a custom-built filtration system tucked away in a pantry cabinet to provide safe drinking water.
Texas encourages rainwater collection. Roger has mentioned that this means that there are tax exemptions and no permits or inspections needed for sustainable barndominium plumbing.
Exterior
The first thing you notice about this Texas barndominium is its classic gable roof design. This roof style is a favorite among barndo owners, with two equal sides that meet in the middle to form an ‘A’ shape. For those in colder climates, a steeply pitched gable roof helps shed snow more efficiently.
The lower half of this home’s exterior is wrapped in stone, giving the home a grounded, rustic look. Meanwhile, a wide, covered porch wraps around the front of the home from corner to corner, offering the perfect space to relax and take in the scenery.
The appeal of a large porch is undeniable—it extends the living space outdoors, creating an ideal spot for gatherings or simply enjoying the fresh air.
At the back, a spacious patio overlooks a picturesque pond that the family had dug themselves, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by nature, this home is a private retreat, blending beautifully into the landscape.
Construction
Every inch of this home was built with passion and care. From the foundation to the finishing touches, it’s a true passion at work. We’re lucky to see how this Texas barndominium came to life with DIY dedication.
Here are some pictures that showcase the incredible craftsmanship that was put into building this home from the ground up.
Interior
Inside, this barndominium blends farmhouse charm with modern touches. Wood paneling and flooring, as well as neutral colors, create a cozy yet contemporary feel.
As you enter, you’re greeted by a functional mudroom. Complete with a built-in bench, this space was entirely designed and built by Roger’s equally talented wife. A mudroom is a practical addition, helping keep the main living areas clean while providing storage for coats, shoes, and bags.
The main living area is open and inviting, with vaulted ceilings that add to the sense of space. Plush leather seating offers comfort, while a stunning stone fireplace acts as the heart of the room. Large windows let in natural light and frame breathtaking views of the surrounding property.
The open floor plan seamlessly connects the living room to the kitchen and dining areas, making the home ideal for both entertaining and everyday living.
The kitchen is a standout space, designed with both style and function in mind. Granite countertops provide durability and elegance, while wood and stone accents add character. A custom vent hood cabinet, designed by Roger’s wife, provides a personal touch.
Open shelving in the corners and a tongue-and-groove ceiling complete the rustic aesthetic. The large kitchen sink, positioned beneath a window, allows for beautiful outdoor views while doing everyday tasks.
A dedicated pantry room provides extra storage, keeping small appliances and bulk items neatly tucked away. Having a separate pantry space is transformative, as it keeps the kitchen clutter-free and organized.
Each bedroom has its own personality, with pops of color that add individuality. The guest bedroom features a beautiful tongue-and-groove accent wall and measures 12×12 feet.
The master bedroom is equally stunning, with a tongue-and-groove ceiling that was hand-stained and installed by the owners. The walk-in closet, measuring 12×7 feet, includes shelves and a cabinet sourced from a marketplace, proving that stylish storage doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
The master bathroom is a true retreat. A freestanding 72-inch bathtub offers a spa-like experience, while the walk-in shower adds modern convenience. There’s also a double vanity that provides ample room for getting ready.
Check Out the Floor Plan Here!
Wrapping Up
Roger Sandmann’s DIY Texas barndominium is a showcase of creativity, hard work, and smart design. Every detail reflects a passion for building and a love for making their home truly their own.
If you’re inspired by this incredible home and ready to start your own barndominium journey, we’re here to help. Barndominium Life is your go-to resource for everything barndo—custom house plans, guides, builders, kits, and more inspiration like this one!
Take a look at what we offer and start your homebuilding journey today.
If you would like more guides like this one, check out the rest of BarndominiumLife.com. There, you will find more helpful tips and tricks from the pros. You will also find featured barndominiums, barndominium floor plans, and information on financing and insurance. Knowing as much as you can will help you get the best results for your dream home.
Noah Edis is a passionate staff writer at Barndominium Life, a leading online resource for all things barndominium. With years of experience in the writing industry, Noah has made a name for himself as a skilled storyteller and a knowledgeable authority on the topic of barndominiums.
Noah’s interest in barndominiums began when he stumbled upon the concept while researching alternative housing options. Intrigued by the rustic charm and functionality of these converted barns, he soon became obsessed with the idea of living in one himself. He spent countless hours researching the construction, design, and decorating aspects of barndominiums, and soon became an expert on the topic.
As a staff writer at Barndominium Life, Noah enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion for these unique homes with others. He has written numerous articles covering a wide range of topics, from the history of barndominiums to the best ways to decorate them. Noah’s writing is informative, engaging, and always on-trend, making him a valuable asset to the Barndominium Life team.
Noah is a graduate of the University of British Columbia, where he earned a degree in English Language and Literature. When he’s not writing about barndominiums, he can be found exploring the great outdoors, trying new restaurants, or spending time with his family and friends. Noah is dedicated to his craft and is always striving to improve his writing skills and knowledge of the barndominium lifestyle.
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