HOOSIER BARN HEROES
Give old timbers a new purpose.
Barn renovation and custom woodworking that celebrate Indiana’s heritage. Explore new uses for existing structures and reclaimed wood.
WHAT WE CAN HELP WITH
Barn renovation & custom woodworking.
Explore restoration and new uses for existing structures, or give reclaimed timber a place in your home.
- Barn renovation & restoration
- Reclaimed timber reuse
- Barn tables & custom furniture
- Card and game tables
- Custom keg taps
- Personalized wooden signs
WHY PLAN THIS CHANGE?
Give the material another chapter.
The character of an old barn lives in its wood, joinery, and weathered surfaces. Reuse begins with understanding what can be preserved.
- Consider the structure. Explore a practical use for the barn you already have.
- Retain its character. Keep distinctive timbers and craftsmanship central to the plan.
- Make something useful. Bring reclaimed wood into furniture and architectural details.
SEE THE RESULTS
Custom Woodworking & Barn Projects
A selection from the existing project gallery. Open the full gallery to explore more work.
Hoosier Barn Heroes Questions
What is Hoosier Barn Heroes?
Hoosier Barn Heroes is BGW Construction’s program dedicated to preserving and repurposing Indiana’s aging barns through full barn renovation, reclaimed timber reuse, and custom woodworking from salvaged barn wood.
What kind of barn work does BGW do?
BGW handles complete barn restoration, rebuilds structures using old-world post-and-beam techniques, and repurposes reclaimed timbers into custom furniture, architectural elements, and other functional pieces.
Can an old barn be converted into living space?
Yes. BGW converts barns into custom workshops, living areas, office spaces, and event-inspired spaces. The use depends on the structure’s condition and your goals.
My barn is in very poor condition. Is it worth saving?
BGW’s view is that barns deserve consideration before demolition. During a consultation, BGW assesses structural condition and advises whether full restoration, partial reclamation, or a rebuild using reclaimed materials is the right path.
How does barn renovation pricing work?
Pricing depends on the barn’s size, condition, and intended use. Share photos, your location, and your goals so BGW can discuss what assessment and planning are needed.
Can I commission a custom piece made from barn wood without a full renovation project?
Yes. Custom woodworking projects such as tables, signs, and game tables are available independently. Contact BGW to discuss a specific commission.
More hoosier barn heroes questions
What custom woodworking items can BGW make from reclaimed barn wood?
BGW creates barn tables, card and game tables, custom keg taps, personalized state signs, and other one-of-a-kind pieces from salvaged material.
Do you source barn wood from other projects, or only from the barn being renovated?
BGW actively searches for forgotten and decaying barns across Indiana to reclaim material, and can work with wood from your own property or source reclaimed timber from elsewhere.
Is reclaimed barn wood structurally sound for use in furniture or buildings?
Old-growth timber found in historic Indiana barns is often denser and more durable than new-growth lumber. BGW assesses and prepares reclaimed wood appropriately for its intended use.
Does BGW work on barns outside Brownsburg, Avon, and Plainfield?
BGW serves Plainfield, Avon, Brownsburg, Danville, Zionsville, Whitestown, and the rest of Hendricks County and central Indiana. Reach out to confirm whether your location falls within its service area.
Can BGW turn my barn into a house or barndominium?
Yes. Converting a barn into livable space, a full home, a barndominium, a workshop with living quarters, or an event space, is exactly what the Hoosier Barn Heroes program does. BGW assesses the structure, preserves the character and old-growth timber where possible, and builds it into a space you can actually live in.
How much does it cost to convert a barn into living space?
It varies enormously with the barn’s condition, size, and intended use, so the honest number comes after we assess the structure. A sound barn needing a straightforward conversion costs far less than one requiring major structural repair. BGW develops a realistic budget before any commitment.
Do I need permits or zoning approval to convert a barn?
Usually yes, and it depends on your county and how the property is zoned. Converting an agricultural structure to residential use can involve zoning approval, building permits, and inspections. BGW helps navigate the local requirements and coordinates the permits as part of the project.
Is converting a barn cheaper than building new?
That depends on the structure and the work needed. Preserving a sound frame may be useful, while substantial repairs can change the comparison. Discuss both options during planning.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR PROJECT
Start planning your project.
Tell us about your space, your priorities, and what you would like to change. Photos and inspiration are welcome.
Prefer to call? (317) 268-4487
BGW Construction has served Central Indiana homeowners since 1999, bringing design and craftsmanship together.