Converting a historic stone barn into a charming country farmhouse kitchen requires creativity, careful planning, and respect for the structure’s original architectural details. When done right, the end result is a cozy, rustic kitchen perfect for casual family meals and entertaining friends.
Introduction
Barns constructed of stone and wood were a common sight on family farms across much of the United States from the late 18th century through the early 20th century. Though many have fallen into disrepair over time, a number still stand and retain their rugged, picturesque charm.
For homebuyers seeking a unique, character-filled residence, adapting an old barn into a home can fulfill that dream. The soaring interior space lends itself well to a spectacular great room, while the exterior stonework provides old-world curb appeal. Kitchens in particular shine when housed in a re-purposed barn, where windows, skylights, and creatively placed lighting brighten formerly dim spaces.
Stone barns boast solid bones begging for a new lease on life. Transforming a relic of America’s agricultural past into today’s modern farmhouse kitchen combines the best of old and new. Thoughtful design choices allow the kitchen to feel distinctly contemporary yet connected to the barn’s fascinating history.
Benefits of Re-purposing a Stone Barn into a Kitchen
Several key benefits exist when converting a historic barn into a kitchen:
- Preserving architectural heritage – Barns were important buildings that reflect 19th century craftsmanship and rural life. Giving them new purpose honors that legacy.
- Rustic, charming design – With exposed beams, high ceilings, and quarried stone walls, the space is inherently charming. Embrace the rustic ambiance.
- Eco-friendly – Re-using an existing structure is sustainable. Salvaged materials like barn wood contribute character while conserving resources.
- Cost effective – Depending on the barn’s condition, converting it into a home can be less expensive than new construction. The structure itself provides ready-made “walls and a roof.”
- Unique features – Details like haylofts and horse stalls can be incorporated into kitchen design for one-of-a-kind elements.
Breathing new life into a neglected barn by making it the centerpiece of a home makes an enduring statement about cherishing the past while moving confidently into the future. For those seeking both vintage appeal and modern-day function, a converted barn-turned-kitchen is a match made in heaven.
Design Considerations When Converting a Barn into a Kitchen
Transforming a weathered stone barn into a welcoming country kitchen requires careful planning and creativity. While each barn is unique, several universal design factors should be contemplated:
Layout
- Survey the barn’s existing footprint and interior divisions. Are original stalls or tie-up areas still intact? Consider incorporating them into an open-concept kitchen/dining area.
- Determine traffic flow, allowing ample pathways between cooking/prep zones, sinks, refrigeration, and ovens. Is there space for an island?
- Explore where to locate entrances, exits, and nearby connecting rooms like pantries or mudrooms. Place doors and arched openings wisely.
- Decide on a main kitchen seating area. Set up distinct zones for stove/ovens, sink, refrigerator with adequate counter space for food preparation tasks.
Flooring
- Stone floors can be cold and unforgiving. Consider pouring or installing concrete, wood, or tile flooring.
- If preserving original barn floors, use area rugs to delineate separate spaces like an eating nook. Rugs provide warmth underfoot.
- Distressed wide-plank wood floors complement a barn’s rustic ambiance. Various stains and finishes create different moods.
- Quarry tile flooring resists stains, requires little maintenance, and adds earthy texture. The natural hues mirror a barn’s patina.
Lighting
- Maximize natural light. If the barn lacks sufficient windows, consider adding skylights.
- Install recessed ceiling lights and attractive barn-style pendant lamps over islands, sinks, and seating areas. Provide ample task lighting.
- Lighting serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. Choose fixtures that enhance ambiance and highlight decorative details.
- Exterior lighting illuminates entries, pathways, patios, and landscaping, providing safety and visual appeal.
Kitchen Storage
- Kitchens require a lot of storage. Use original horse stalls or haylofts, or build custom cabinetry. Open shelving saves space.
- Display colorful dishware in glass-front cabinets. Open shelves keep cookbooks, baskets, and pots visible and accessible.
- Mobile carts allow flexibility. Store less used items in reach but out of the way.
- Salvaged items like an old washbasin make charming sinks. Repurposed crates, barrels, and ladders offer storage solutions.
Countertops
- Butcher block evokes traditional farm kitchens. Maple or oak provide smooth food prep surfaces. Maintain with mineral oil.
- Granite’s durability suits active kitchens. Timeless and elegant, it comes in gray, brown, white hues that complement barn materials.
- Soapstone is a soft stone that gains patina over time. Used historically for sinks, it remains cool to the touch.
- Wood or concrete offer affordable options, either procured salvaged or custom-poured. Match barn floors or walls.
Incorporating Original Barn Features
Maintaining an aged barn’s architectural details gives the new kitchen a sense of history. Beautiful worn stone walls and hand-hewn ceiling beams tell the historical building’s story. Let these raw original components take center stage:
Stone Walls
- Preserve interior quarried stone to anchor the design aesthetically and physically. Stone walls provide textural contrast to reclaimed wood or steel.
- Clean walls of dirt and debris with mild detergent and water without damaging patina. Use mild vinegar and water solution for more stubborn stains.
- Sandstone, limestone and fieldstone wall types each lend unique character. Accentuate veins, natural clefts and varied gray-brown hues.
- Seal any cracks or gaps in walls during renovation to prevent drafts, water damage, and dust collection afterward. Use appropriate sealant for type of stone.
Ceiling Beams
- Whether wood or steel, preserve and highlight the barn’s beams. They provide strong horizontal lines contrasting the vertical stone walls.
- Use naturally decay-resistant wood like cedar, cypress, or oak if replacing rotted beams during renovation. Match original beams’ chunky proportions.
- Clean wooden beams of dust, grime, and cobwebs. Use mild detergent and steel wool for tough stains, then apply natural oil to finish.
- Draw the eye upward by lighting beams. Hang pendant lamps from exposed beams above the kitchen island or sink for rustic accent lighting.
Haylofts and Horse Stalls
- Repurposed haylofts accessed by ladder make charming sleeping nooks or reading lofts overlooking the kitchen. Display books and decor.
- Convert individual horse stalls into unusual storage cubbies, pantries, or built-in banquettes for casual dining. Preserve the original openings.
- Use the barn’s former divisions to delineate kitchen zones like baking, mixing, washing, or refrigeration. Keep it open concept within original footprints.
- Hang salvaged horse tack, antique tools, or pots and pans to decorate and reinforce the agrarian barn origins.
Country Farmhouse Kitchen Design Ideas
Virtually any barn can be adapted into a charming farmhouse kitchen with enough creativity. Consider these design ideas:
Mix Natural Textures
Juxtapose rough-hewn beams with smooth quartz countertops. Distressed wood shelving next to cozy linens provides visual depth. Combine metal, wood, and stone for varying organic texture.
Whitewash Wood Elements
Painting wood beams, cabinets, and walls in white or cream brightens up dark spaces. Use washable paint for an antiqued, timeworn look. Keep existing stone and floors in original earth tones.
Incorporate Vintage Character
Display any salvaged barn relics like gears, pulleys, buckets, or traps as décor. Use an old trough as a rustic sink or lanterns to provide mood lighting. Vintage items reinforce country farmhouse vibe.
Warm Up With Wood
The more reclaimed wood, the better. Rescue old cider press boards for shelving. Make tables from weathered oak. Carve rolling pins and utensils from barn beams. Distressed wood adds to cozy appeal.
Contrast Modern and Rustic
Combine timeworn wood beams with clean-lined modern chairs and stainless steel appliances. Hang a sleek pendant light centered over a distressed wood table. Blend old and new elements.
Add Earthy Touches
Incorporate potted herbs, dried flowers, stacked stone, woven baskets, and vintage bottle collections. Reflect the surrounding rural landscape inside. Keep décor and materials natural.
FAQs About Converting a Barn into a Kitchen
What are the first steps in a barn-to-kitchen conversion?
Conduct thorough inspections assessing electrical, plumbing, foundation, and structural needs. Have licensed contractors evaluate and provide recommendations. Compile required permits and ensure zoning allows for residential use before renovation.
How much does a barn-to-kitchen conversion cost?
Costs vary greatly. Factors like barn size, location, needed repairs, and design choices influence overall price. Potential complex needs like roofing, electrical, plumbing, and installing heating/cooling systems significantly impact cost as well.
What should be considered regarding kitchen plumbing in a barn?
Since barns lack pre-existing kitchen plumbing, installing all new supply lines, drains, septic connections, and vents is required. Look into trenching or above-ground plumbing. Consult licensed plumbers experienced in barn conversions early in the process.
How can kitchen ventilation be addressed in an old barn?
Proper ventilation prevents moisture and cooking fumes from damaging the structure. Evaluate prevailing airflow then strategically place high-capacity range hoods. Install louvered exhaust vents in cupolas or dormers if available. Consider supplemental fans if needed.
What are important considerations for a barn kitchen floor plan?
- Provide adequate space between cooking, cleaning, and seating zones
- Incorporate original barn doors, arched openings, and stalls seamlessly
- Allow room for multiple cooks to navigate comfortably
- Include a spacious island with storage and overhang for seating
- Ensure pathways to outdoor entertaining areas remain accessible
Should electrical be updated in a converted barn?
Electrical demands are vastly different for a kitchen versus original barn use. Hire licensed electricians to install all new wiring, outlets, switches, and fixtures to meet safety codes and kitchen electrical needs. Ensure sufficient circuits to avoid blown fuses.
How can a cozy feel be created in a large, high-ceiling barn kitchen?
- Incorporate warm lighting from fixtures at different heights like chandeliers and sconces
- Add floor and table lamps for soft ambient lighting
- Use area rugs and window treatments to delineate proportions
- Include plush cushions, throws, and accent seating
- Add two-story stone fireplace as a focal point
Conclusion
Reimagining a weathered abandoned barn as the centerpiece of a country farmhouse kitchen blends past and present in an appealing way. The soaring space, patinated stone walls, and reclaimed materials realize a cozy yet airy gathering spot for creating memories with family and friends.
Converting a relic from America’s agricultural heritage by infusing it with inviting warmth gives the old barn new life. Be inspired but also patient – adapting existing barn structures requires expertise. But the end result of a spectacular great room anchored by a spacious country kitchen makes the effort worthwhile.
Thoughtful design choices allow the kitchen to feel distinctly contemporary yet connected to the barn’s fascinating history. Kitchens housed in re-purposed barns have an ability to nurture body and soul in inspiring surroundings that both honor the past and embrace the future.
