Expert: Brian McElroy - 7/6/2007

Question
QUESTION: Is it feasible to build a barn style two story house cheaply?  I want to find a builder/architect to build a shell and then finish the interior my self.  I am not proficient on the IBC requirements for residential buildings as it relates to required degrees of finish and internal dividing walls.  I would like to have the greatest degree of open space through the use of glue-lam beams and girders.  Basically, post and beam but using lower cost modern joinery and engineered lumber sources.  Feasibility and reasonable cost?

ANSWER: Where do you plan to build?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: We plan to build in northern Indiana.

Answer
I can only speak for homes in Florida. Generally, 2 stories are about 30% more expensive than single story homes due to the need for a floor system and a 2nd a/c or heating unit. If you look at Icynene insulation, the HVAC loads will be greatly reduced, but you really need to find local contractors to give you pricing and estimates.