Building barndominiums, or “shouses” has become popular, especially here in rural Southwest Missouri. As with any home, the addition of outdoor spaces on a barndominium increases enjoyment, visual appeal, and value. For this project, Kevin added an attached covered patio, fireplace, and fire pit seating area. The end result shows exactly how you can make your metal building look nice with luxury features and well-designed landscaping.
Outdoor Living for Our Shouse
The Inspiration
The Runyons finished the interior of their barndomium in 2015. The indoor living area is precisely designed to maximize space, topping out under 1000 sq. ft. Kevin knew that he didn’t want to hold back when designing the outdoor living area for their shouse. This family loves to get outside! He included a large covered patio with fireplace, grill, and long tables (capable of seating a small army), as well as an uncovered area with rock benches and the ultimate fire pit.
The Build
The outdoor living build was executed in stages over a 2 year period. First, the concrete was poured and stamped to create the large patio. Later, the fireplace was built and the stones were brought in and placed as slab seating around the fire pit. The greenscapes were installed the next year, creating a gorgeous enclosed space for relaxing in the evening.
This outdoor area utilizes a natural privacy fence that helps create the living area.
Landscape Preservation
The use of landscape fabric under the beds and concrete for the living space means that maintenance is minimal.
Suggested maintenance for a project like this is:
- Yearly power-washing of concrete
- Yearly re-mulching to protect plants in winter
- Pruning shrubs
2016
Concrete patio was poured under the metal roof.
2017
Garden beds were built to enclose patio. The gorgeous custom fireplace was created under the metal roof for warmth. Large slabs were placed atop smaller slabs to create natural stone seating around the fire pit area. The large steel fire pit was hauled in and seating purchased to create a relaxing spot to enjoy on cool evenings.
2019
This is where the greenscapes were added. Perennial grasses were planted throughout the beds, along with shrubs and evergreens. This definitely took the outdoor area up a notch.
2020
The landscaping plants have grown in over the past year and create a beautiful natural barrier for the outdoor area on the barndominium.
