How to Incorporate Rustic Charm into Your Barndo

One of my favorite things about building barndominiums is seeing how each one reflects the personality of the people living in it. And for many of our clients here in Spokane and the surrounding rural areas, that means blending modern comfort with a timeless, rustic charm that feels authentic, warm, and full of character.

At Stimson Contracting, we specialize in building custom barndos that combine post-frame strength with interior designs that feel both luxurious and inviting. If you're dreaming of a space that feels cozy, handcrafted, and unmistakably yours, here’s how to incorporate rustic charm into your barndominium—from finishes to fixtures and everything in between.

Table of Contents

1. Start With Natural Materials

2. Exposed Beams and Wood Ceilings

3. Rustic Flooring Options

4. Reclaimed Wood Accents

5. Barn Doors and Sliding Hardware

6. Stone Features and Fireplaces

7. Rustic Lighting Fixtures

8. Vintage and Farmhouse-Style Kitchens

9. Neutral Colors and Textures

10. Conclusion: Style That Feels Like Home

1. Start With Natural Materials

If you want rustic charm, there’s no better place to start than with natural materials. We recommend:

• Wood siding or board-and-batten exteriors

• Metal roofing with a weathered or matte finish

• Stone or brick for accent walls or foundations

These materials set the tone and age beautifully with time.

2. Exposed Beams and Wood Ceilings

Exposed beams are one of the most popular requests we get—and for good reason. They add:

Visual warmth
Architectural interest
An authentic barn feel

We often install tongue-and-groove pine or cedar ceilings to complete the look, especially in vaulted living rooms or open loft spaces.

3. Rustic Flooring Options

Your floors make a huge impact on your overall aesthetic. Rustic favorites include:

• Wide-plank engineered hardwood

• Stained concrete with a distressed finish

• Wood-look luxury vinyl for budget-friendly durability

Each option brings warmth, depth, and that lived-in comfort barndos are known for.

4. Reclaimed Wood Accents

Nothing brings charm quite like reclaimed wood. We love incorporating it into:

• Fireplace mantels

• Accent walls or wainscoting

• Open shelving in kitchens or mudrooms

Reclaimed barn wood tells a story—and adds one-of-a-kind character.

5. Barn Doors and Sliding Hardware

No rustic barndo is complete without at least one barn-style sliding door. Use them to separate:

• Master bathrooms

• Laundry rooms

• Pantries or closets

We help you choose hardware that complements your overall design theme, from black iron to oil-rubbed bronze.

6. Stone Features and Fireplaces

A floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace can serve as the heart of your barndo. Consider:

• Stacked ledgestone for a rugged look

• River rock or fieldstone for a softer, natural texture

• A reclaimed wood mantel to tie everything together

It’s perfect for Spokane’s chilly winters and adds instant rustic appeal.

7. Rustic Lighting Fixtures

Swap basic lighting for something with character. Think:

• Wrought-iron chandeliers

• Edison bulb pendants over your kitchen island

• Lantern-style sconces in hallways or porches

Lighting is the jewelry of your barndo—don’t overlook it.

8. Vintage and Farmhouse-Style Kitchens

Rustic charm really shines in the kitchen. We love building:

• Apron-front (farmhouse) sinks

• Open shelving with wrought-iron brackets

• Shiplap or beadboard backsplashes

• Butcher block or soapstone countertops

Finish it with oil-rubbed cabinet hardware and warm, muted tones.

9. Neutral Colors and Textures

Rustic doesn’t have to mean dark and heavy. We often use:

• Soft whites and earth tones

• Textured fabrics like linen, burlap, or wool

• Light wood accents and matte finishes

The result? A space that feels cozy and calm, not cluttered.

10. Conclusion: Style That Feels Like Home

A barndominium with rustic charm is more than just a house—it’s a place that feels like home from the moment you step inside. Whether you’re going full farmhouse or just adding a few touches of warmth, these details can turn your structure into a space that’s uniquely yours.

At Stimson Contracting, we’re proud to help Spokane-area families design and build barndos that blend strength, style, and comfort. From reclaimed finishes to custom layouts, we’ll help you bring your rustic dream home to life.