Balsam Lake, Wisconsin Barndominium by Jeff and Wendy Thompson

Greetings from Balsam Lake! Just over an hour’s drive from the Twin Cities metro area, Balsam Lake is a favorite Wisconsin fishing destination. Nestled in a charming lake town, it offers a year-round vacation experience filled with water sports, golf, shopping, hunting, and snowmobile trails.

But here comes reality: This stunning way of living also comes with a hefty price tag. The cost of homes has soared in recent years, with the median sales price of a Wisconsin home having increased by more than 50% in just five years, outpacing income growth significantly.

As a result, many aspiring homeowners are looking for more affordable housing alternatives, such as barndominiums. These unique homes (called “barndos” for short) combine barn charm with modern comfort. They typically feature an open floor plan, high ceilings, plenty of customizable space and often include large workshops, making them ideal for both living and working.

Building a barndominium in Wisconsin is particularly appealing because of its versatility and cost-effectiveness. They can withstand harsh winters, providing a cozy retreat during the colder months while still offering ample space for summer activities. Additionally, the ability to customize a barndominium to fit personal needs and tastes adds that special touch that traditional homes usually just lack.

So, if you’re still considering your options, here’s a look at a Balsam Lake, Wisconsin barndominium that’s sure to inspire. Let’s get started.

Overview

Let’s take a peek at this standout Wisconsin property – a newly built barndominium by Jeff and Wendy Thompson. Completed in 2023, this modern home, emphasizing a more rural design, is situated on a spacious two-and-a-half-acre lot, offering both tranquility and outdoor space.

This Wisconsin barndominium has 2,400 square feet of living space. It includes three comfortable bedrooms and four well-appointed bathrooms, providing plenty of room for family and guests. One of the key highlights of this home is the impressive 1,600 square foot garage, featuring a striking multi-color mahogany door measuring around 18×8 feet.

Jeff and Wendy have infused their personal touches throughout the property, including their beloved cupolas adorned with American Eagle weathervanes. These charming details add character and a touch of Americana to the overall look of the house. 

Getting to know the owners

Let’s jump right into a Q&A with Jeff and Wendy Thompson, the amazing owners of this beautiful Balsam Lake barndominium.

What inspired you to build a barndominium?

Jeff and Wendy have always been captivated by the unique architecture of barns, both old and new. About 15 years ago, they saw a 125-year-old barn in Arizona that inspired them to build a barndominium. 

The charm and character of that historic structure left a lasting impression, leading them to create a similar architectural delight for their own home.

Did you build your barndominium yourself or hire a builder? Any tips for finding a builder?

Initially, the Thompsons hired a builder to construct their barndominium, but the experience did not go as planned. Faced with challenges, they decided to take on the role of general contractor themselves to ensure the project met their expectations.

Through this experience, they learned that the two most crucial professionals in building a home are the architect and the framer. They stress the importance of doing thorough research and homework before selecting these key players, as their expertise and knowledge can significantly impact the success of the build.

Jeff and Wendy recommend tapping into the experience of these professionals to gain valuable insights and advice.

What is the one thing you wish you would have known before building?

Looking back, Jeff and Wendy wish they had taken on the role of general contractor from the very start. Although managing the construction process was incredibly time-consuming, it proved to be immensely rewarding and cost-effective.

But for those who can’t manage the build themselves, consider a barndominium kit and hiring a builder to assist. This approach can simplify the process while still guaranteeing professional results.

What is your favorite part of your barndominium?

Wendy’s favorite part of their barndominium is the large deck off the master bedroom, as well as the downstairs living space and kitchen. These areas show off some fantastic sunset views of beautiful Wild Goose Lake.

Meanwhile, Jeff’s favorites are the entire exterior design and the upstairs living space, particularly the large master bedroom and bathroom, which gives such a spacious and comfortable retreat.

Anything you wish you could change?

In the words of Jeff and Wendy, “We would not change a thing about it. That’s when you know you are in your forever home.” Their barndominium perfectly meets their needs and desires, confirming that they have truly found their ideal home.

Let’s Tour this Barndominium!

From the unique architectural details of the exterior to the spacious and thoughtfully designed interior, Jeff and Wendy Thompson’s Wisconsin barndominium is ready to impress. 

Exterior

Not built from a kit, this Wisconsin barndominium is custom-designed and began as sketches on napkins on dinner dates. Jeff’s initial drawings have transformed into a striking, functional residence that the couple is certainly proud of.

The barndominium features a metal roof with a shiny new copper penny finish. For the barndominium siding, they chose LP SmartSide, a brand known for its low maintenance and durability. This type of siding incorporates four components of protection intended to withstand impacts, freeze/thaw cycles, high humidity, and resist fungal decay and termites – making it an excellent choice for Wisconsin’s unpredictable climate.

Adding to the charm of their property, Jeff and Wendy have also completed a ceremony arch and an outdoor grain bin bar. These features are perfect for hosting weddings and events, with both structures offering breathtaking sunset views. 

The combination of thoughtful design, durable materials, and unique outdoor amenities makes the exterior of this barndo as impressive as its interior.

Interior

The interior of this Wisconsin barndominium beautifully highlights the country’s rustic charm. The home features wall-to-wall hardwood floors, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout. The only carpet in the house is found in the three bedrooms, adding cozy warmth to these more personal spaces.

The color palette in the main living areas, including the family room and kitchen, is a soothing sand color. This same sand color extends to the upstairs hallway, master bedroom, and master bath.

In contrast, the other three bathrooms and the laundry room feature light grey, which provides a fresh and clean look that complements the overall design. The barn itself incorporates sand accents but is predominantly a darker rust color. This rich hue is highlighted by corrugated metal wainscoting with a walnut border, adding texture and depth to the interior.

The kitchen is a standout feature, boasting walnut-colored cabinets paired with granite countertops in a “Jaguar” shade. The combination of these materials adds a touch of luxury to the barndominium’s predominantly rustic charm.

Jeff and Wendy’s thoughtful design choices create a harmonious and inviting interior that perfectly complements the rustic exterior of their unique home.

Living Area

The living area has a cozy and inviting ambiance, highlighted by a beautiful stone fireplace flanked by a comfortable rocking chair. A unique spoke wheel staircase adds a touch of rustic charm, while sliding barn doors seamlessly blend function and style. 

Kitchen and Bar

Serving as the focal point of the home, the kitchen boasts elegant walnut cabinets and a spacious kitchen island that provides ample space for cooking and entertaining. A customized “Wild Goose Saloon” adds a personalized touch – perfect for hosting friends and family.

Bedrooms

The bedrooms are designed for relaxation with soft carpeting and sturdy wood bed frames. Each bedroom provides a cozy retreat, balancing style and comfort.

Bathrooms

The bathrooms are thoughtfully designed with modern conveniences, including double sinks and large showers that offer both ease of use and a touch of luxury. The use of light grey tones in the bathrooms adds a fresh, clean look that complements the design of the home.

Wrapping Up

The Balsam Lake, Wisconsin Barndominium by Jeff and Wendy Thompson has every detail figured out. From its distinctive exterior to its charming interior space, every part of the home reflects this family’s passion for having such an unapologetically rustic home.

Jeff and Wendy’s barndo is a shining example of how innovative design and careful planning can transform a vision into reality, making this one a cherished home in Wisconsin’s lake country.

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.