Although there aren’t many old farms left in North Central West Virginia, barns can still be a desirable addition to many luxury properties. This is because barns are no longer just for storing hay, protecting farm equipment, or milking cows. These days, many affluent homeowners are converting barns into multi-use spaces while keeping the rustic charm of the original space. Others purchase custom-built buildings that never served as a barn, but which have all the charm.
Today, White Diamond Realty shares why barns are back, how they are being used, and what some of the basic requirements are for a bespoke barn that adds both value and functionality to your luxury property.
Barns are back
Sotheby’s International Realty recently explained “Bespoke backyard barns, which are being built to host big events as well as private parties in primary residences, are expanding the concept and physical boundaries of the traditional family room.”
Of course, hosting memorable parties is not the only reason why luxury homeowners in North Central West Virginia might choose to build/upgrade a barn on their property. Other reasons, include:
A bespoke barn can provide ample storage space for equipment, tools, and other belongings. It can also be used to store hay, livestock feed, and other agricultural products.
A bespoke barn can be designed to complement the style and architecture of the homeowner’s property, enhancing its visual appeal, and adding to its value.
A bespoke barn can be used as a space for recreational activities, such as a home gym, a game room, or a workshop.
A bespoke barn can be designed with sustainability in mind, using eco-friendly materials and incorporating features such as solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems.
A bespoke barn can be designed to provide housing and shelter for livestock, such as horses, cows, goats, or chickens. According to Chad Matheny, owner of Mountaineer Amish Sales, this is one of the trending uses for homeowners in the Morgantown area. Matheny says that many of his local customers have decided to raise chickens on their land to reduce their reliance on retail eggs and meat.
A bespoke barn can be used for agricultural production, such as growing plants or crops, or for processing and storing agricultural products. In fact, one of the hottest current crops for hobbyist growers—mushrooms—requires a dark, cool, and humid environment to thrive. A barn can provide such an environment, especially if it is well-ventilated and has a consistent temperature and humidity level. To get started, we recommend using an indoor mushroom growing kit from Mon Valley Mushrooms. They grow fast, but if you need some today, you can find their fresh mushrooms at Mountain Harvest Farmand Nampara Arts Cooperative. You can also find them at the seasonal markets hosted by Quartz and Coal in Fairmont, WV.
Overall, a bespoke barn can provide homeowners with additional functional space on their property while also adding to its value and aesthetic appeal. Just remember, whether you go for a refurbished barn or build yours to order, the requirements begin with cathedral ceilings and plenty of square footage, as well as the generous use of natural materials, such as wood floors, rustic accent beams, and wood paneling. If you don’t have an old barn to refurbish, consider utilizing reclaimed wood where possible, including in the furniture. The same goes for hardware fixtures, which can either be new, or reclaimed. Stick to these basics and you’re sure to end up with an inviting space that’s perfect for your next casual gathering.
There are plenty of options for contractors who can help build or refurbish a barn. If you choose to refurbish, consider contacting Mountaineer Amish Sales. Because their owner, Chad Matheny, also owns Core Building Solutions, they can undercut the competition on price, while offering high quality solutions for roofing, waterproofing, flooring, and more.
If you need some land to build your barn upon, check out our latest featured properties!
For links to know your local building codes, zoning restrictions, and HOA requirements, see our January 2023 blog post about adding modern sheds to your property.
If you are not quite ready to build a barn on your property, you can still host events in one by contacting Valley View Farms in nearby Waynesburg, PA. A shot of their historic venue is pictured in our featured photo for this blogpost.
This Quaker Style Shed from Mountaineer Amish Sales includes side opening double doors.
