Our Favorite Upgrades for Custom Shops & Barndominiums

Building a custom shop or barndominium gives you a clean slate — whether you’re crafting a hobby workspace, equipment storage, or a combination shop/home hybrid. At A&B Buildings, we’ve seen hundreds of projects in Wyoming and nearby regions, and we often find that the upgrades—not just the base building—make a big difference in usability, comfort, and longevity. Today, we’re sharing our favourite upgrade ideas, written in a simple style so you can decide which makes sense for you. No heavy sales pitch—just helpful information.

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Why Upgrades Matter

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Even a well-built shop or barndominium can under-perform if it’s missing the right features. Upgrades help by:

• Making the building more usable (comfortable working space, good lighting, organised storage)
  
  
• Protecting the structure and contents (better insulation, upgraded doors/windows, drainage)
  
  
• Adding value and flexibility (so it’s easier to repurpose or resale later)
  
  
• Making it more climate-appropriate, especially for Wyoming’s conditions (cold winters, strong wind, snow loads, sun exposure)
  
  

Good insulation, upgraded electrical, ventilation, and smart door choices increase both enjoyment and value.

With that context, here are some of our top upgrades we recommend for custom shops and barndominiums in Wyoming.

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Top 6 Upgrade Ideas

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1. Insulation & climate control

If your shop or barndominium is going to be used for work, storage, or year-round access—even just occasional—insulation makes a big difference. A well-insulated building stays warmer in winter, cooler in summer, reduces condensation, and protects tools/equipment from extreme swings.

What to consider:

• Wall and roof insulation (batts, spray foam, or reflective insulation)
  

• Heating/cooling options if you’ll spend lots of time inside
  
  

When it makes sense: If you plan to use the space as a workshop, home base, or store temperature-sensitive items. Even if you just store equipment, the better environment may prolong the lifespan of tools.

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2. Upgraded doors, windows & access features

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The doors and windows matter more than you might first think—they affect usability, light, ventilation, security, and energy efficiency. 

What to consider:

• Large overhead or roll-up doors for vehicle/equipment access
  
  
• Sliding doors (if you prefer a barndominium look or save space)
  
  
• Walk-in personnel doors for easy access
  
  
• Windows/skylights for natural light (reduces electrical cost)
  
  
• Insulated doors/windows if you’re climate controlling
  
  

When it makes sense: If you regularly move large items in/out, use the building for work or recreation, or want it to look clean and professional.

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3. Floor upgrades & sub-floor enhancements

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Often commercial spaces start with a gravel or basic concrete slab; upgrading the floor can transform the space. 

What to consider:

• A full concrete slab if you’ll use heavy equipment, vehicles or a workshop
  
  
• Sealed/epoxy finish for easier clean-up and durability
  
  
• Drainage or floor slope if you wash down the space or manage fluids
  
  
• Raised/padded floor sections if you have workbenches, offices or living-space zones
  
  

When it makes sense: If you’ll spend a lot of time in the space, move heavy equipment, or re-purpose part of the barndominium as a workspace or studio.

4. Electrical, lighting & smart wiring

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A well-designed electrical system turns a simple shelter into a fully functional space. Installing additional outlets or circuits, adding lighting fixtures for better visibility, and upgrading the electrical panel are key upgrades.

What to consider:

• Ample outlets and dedicated circuits for tools, compressors, welders, office gear
  
  
• Bright overhead lighting (LED is great)
  
  
• Task lighting for workbenches or hobby spaces
  
  
• Smart wiring: internet access, security cameras, automated doors
  
  
• Consider future growth (don’t skimp now)
  
  

When it makes sense: If you’ll use the space for manufacturing, hobbies, business work, or frequent projects rather than just storage.

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5. Exterior finishes & curb appeal upgrades

Even though the inside is important, the exterior appearance and durability matter for longevity, resale and how you feel about your property. Upgrades like wainscoting, enhanced metal gauge, cupolas, and premium colors can elevate the look and endurance. 

What to consider:

• Upgrade to thicker gauge metal panels for siding/roofing (adds durability)
  
  
• Wainscoting or base paneling to protect lower walls from damage
  
  
• Premium colors or textures if appearance matters
  
  
• Cupolas, overhangs or architectural details for style and ventilation
  
  
• Gutters/downspouts to manage rain/snow runoff
  
  

When it makes sense: If the barndominium/shop is a prominent feature of your property, or you have long-term plans and want something that ages well.

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6. Flexible layout & live/work space inclusion

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More and more, people are blending functions: part shop, part living studio, part storage. Designing upgrades that allow flexibility now pays off later. For instance, some barndominium-home kits include additions like timber-framed ceilings, heavy windows, and living-space features.

What to consider:

• Plan for future conversion of part of the building to office, studio or guest space
  
  
• Choose framed sections, conduit runs, and insulation now so upgrades later cost less
  
  
• Build wide spans and minimise internal posts if you want open space
  
  
• Multi-bay layouts for different uses (equipment bay + workspace + storage)
  
  

When it makes sense: If you anticipate change in use (e.g., turning a shop into an Airbnb, live/work space, or adding rental use).

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Pulling it all together: which upgrades make sense for ?

Here’s a quick way to decide:

• Primary use: Storage only → focus on doors/access + basic floor. Workshop/live-work → all of the above.
  
  
• Budget vs longevity: Some upgrades cost more now (concrete slab, premium metal, full insulation) but save money/effort later.
  
  
• Climate considerations: In Wyoming you’ll want insulation + durable materials + good drainage/access.
  
  
• Future plans: If you may change use, build in flexibility now.
  
  
• Appearance/Resale: If you plan to sell later or the barndominium is “show-feature”, invest more in exterior and finishes.
  

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Why A&B Buildings is here to support you

At A&B Buildings, we’ve helped clients design custom shops and barndominiums that not only fit their immediate needs—but are built to last and adapt. We don’t simply sell a building; we help you think through what upgrades will matter in 5-, 10-, or 20 years. We’ll walk you through trade-offs, durability for Wyoming conditions, layout, and budget choices—so you build something you’ll be glad to own long-term.

Ready to Plan Your Build?

If you’re considering a custom shop or barndominium (or already have one and want to upgrade it), we can help you:

• Explore which upgrades make the biggest difference for your goals & site.
  
  
• Understand cost-versus-benefit in clear, easy terms.
  
  
• Create a plan and timeline that fits your budget and use.
  
  
• Get started with no high-pressure sales—just a conversation about what’s right for you.
  
  

If you’d like to talk through options for your specific property, reach out to us at A&B Buildings. Let’s build something that works for your lifestyle now —and for many years ahead.

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Get your free consultation with A&B Buildings.

We’ll help you set a budget you can trust, and deliver a building that will last for decades.

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