Spacious, airy, flexible, and exuding the charm of traditional Americana, barndominiums have taken off for many reasons. But have you ever wondered about the origin of this popular trend?
It all started with one particular barndo that was featured on the show Fixer Upper.
In this guide, we’re going to tell you more about the home’s background, as well as its layout and features. And do you know what the best part of all is? You can stay in the Original Fixer Upper Barndo and experience it for yourself!
What is the Story Behind the Fixer Upper Barndominium?
Fixer Upper was a show on HGTV and DIY Network that ran for five seasons. Each episode featured Chip and Joanna Gaines of the remodelling firm Magnolia Homes transforming fixer-upper properties into beautiful, liveable abodes in Texas.
On Episode 6 of Season 3, titled, “The Barndominium,” they revitalized an authentic barn (yes, it used to have animals in it) into a fully functional home called the “Meek house.”
On the Magnolia blog, Joanna Gaines wrote, “This home was originally a horse barn, and I’ve dreamed of getting the opportunity to turn a barn into a home for years … The Barndominium was a blast for us to transform, and we hope the Meek family is able to retreat here to relax and reconnect with their family and friends for many years to come.”
In that post, you can read through a detailed description of all the changes and improvements that the team made to turn the old barn into a gorgeous rustic barndominium.
Alas, tragically for the Meeks, they never got a chance to live in their new home, as they had to move out of Texas altogether. But the state of the home after its renovation has been beautifully preserved, and now it is available as a rental.
The Original Location and Features
The house is located just 6.5 miles from the center of Waco, but surrounded by 16 acres of breathtaking wooded private land, you will feel like you are off in your own rural paradise. Oak trees, a sweeping green lawn, and a lake reflecting the big Texas sky make for an idyllic setting. While you are visiting, you can fish for bass (you can borrow equipment on-site), kayak, or take a refreshing swim.
You’ll be close to fun destinations like the Mayborn Museum, the Texas Rangers Museum, Cameron Park and the Cameron Park Zoo, Magnolia Markets, Brazos River, and more. So, dining, shopping, and activities are all close at hand.
The barn itself is incredibly spacious, with enough room to sleep up to 20 people, so larger families and groups can stay here comfortably. There is a king-size bed in one of the downstairs bedroom. Two other downstairs bedrooms feature a queen-size bed and a twin bed in the “Lego Room,” respectively. Two more bedrooms can be found upstairs, each with queen beds and full-size bunk beds. Additional sleeping spaces include a queen sleeper sofa and an air mattress.
Staying here is your chance to discover what living in a barnd is like, and to enjoy the nostalgia of Fixer Upper if you remember the home from the episode. Throughout the barndo, you will find rustic décor and white shiplap walls, creating an ambiance that is at once rural and refined.
Relax on one of the luxurious couches in the living room, admiring the double French doors, or try preparing a meal in the home’s stunning kitchen. Simple white cabinets, butcher block countertops, a huge farmhouse sink, and stainless steel appliances await. An ornate backsplash brings an artistic flourish to the space, while huge French windows offer views of the trees. This kitchen is so roomy. Multiple people can work in here without bumping elbows. After you cook, you can dine at the long table with plenty of seating for larger groups.
As to the bedrooms, each of them features a different decorative scheme, but all fit beautifully with the rest of the home for a unified ambiance. They are the very essence of cozy warmth, offering you the refreshing night of sleep you need after a day out exploring the Waco area.
We would be remiss not to mention the outdoor spaces you can look forward to when you stay in this legendary barndo as well. There are multiple levels of patios and decks, combining to offer an additional 2,000 feet of space!
An outdoor gas grill and kitchen give you an alternative to cooking indoors, perfect if you want to get some bass ready while spending time with your group. Between the outdoor sofas, benches, and chairs, there is plenty of room for everyone. Fire tables enhance the atmosphere while keeping everyone toasty and warm.
Other Amenities at the Original Fixer Upper Barndominium include:
- Outdoor propane heaters
- A hammock
- A picnic table
- A play area with a playhouse and swing for the kids
- A pergola
- Cable
- Wi-fi
- Multiple TVs
- A DVD player
- Apple TV for streaming
- Board games for rainy days
- Outdoor games
- Spices and condiments in the kitchen
- Fishing supplies
Stay in the Original Fixer Upper Barndo Now
It isn’t everyday you come across a listing to rent a house as iconic as the Original Fixer Upper Barndo. Not only is this rental famous, but it helped to popularize the entire trend of barndominium living.
Staying here, you will be experiencing the best in rustic luxury that the Waco, Texas area has to offer. And if you are thinking about moving into a barndominium yourself, this is your chance to preview the lifestyle and figure out whether it is for you. You’ll be able to learn what it is like to cook, entertain, relax, and sleep in a barndo.
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