Historical Restoration | Hoosier Barn Heroes Feature
Barn Renovation in Brownsburg, Avon, & Plainfield, Indiana
At BGW Construction’s “Hoosier Barn Heroes,” we bring new life to the weathered barns of Brownsburg, Avon, and Plainfield — preserving the rustic charm of Indiana heritage while delivering quality craftsmanship. Whether restoring a historic post-and-beam barn, repurposing reclaimed timbers into custom furniture, or rebuilding a structure from the ground up using old-world techniques, we treat every project as a labor of love. We believe those barns — once integral to Hoosier farms — deserve more than demolition; they deserve considerate renovation that honors their legacy and adds warm, functional space to your property. If you’re ready to reimagine a forgotten barn as a custom workshop, living area, or heirloom-inspired centerpiece, BGW is your local Hendricks County expert.
Local Barn Renovation, Custom Woodworking, and Much More!
There’s a wonderful feeling of nostalgia as a native Hoosier travels down a country road and takes in the Indiana horizon decorated by dozens of old barns. Painted by the wind and stained by the snow and rain – just looking at the picture of a Hoosier Barn gives me chills. Back in 2013, the Indianapolis Star ran an article warning Hoosiers of the current state of these treasured assets. These barns have been left neglected because they have long outlived their usefulness in today’s world of modern agricultural equipment. Forgotten and dilapidated, many farmers simply demolish them and burn or dump the material in order to put to good use the valuable soil underneath.
Example Custom Woodworking Projects::
- Complete Barn Renovation
- Barn Tables
- Custom Keg Taps
- Card Game Tables
- Personalized State Signs
Why Consider Barn Renovations?
BGW’s Hoosier Barn Heroes makes every effort to find these forgotten and decaying buildings and reclaim the material in and around them. We cherish the handcrafted post and beam construction, and repurpose this valuable material, or rebuild the structure using Old World methods.
There is a purity and passion in what we do…we take wood that would otherwise be thrown away… wood that has had a whole other life performing some other humble duty and restore it to another grand purpose, so that these forgotten timbers can find another way to bring joy and service into the world.
FAQ's For Hoosier Barn Heroes
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How does barn renovation pricing work?
Scope and condition vary enormously from barn to barn. BGW offers free consultations to assess the structure and develop a realistic project plan and budget before any commitment. BGW gives a firm number after a free consultation.
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?
Sometimes, and it depends entirely on the barn. A structurally sound barn gives you a frame, character, and materials new construction cannot buy, which can save money and time. A barn in poor shape may cost more to save than to replace. BGW tells you honestly which situation you are in before you spend a dollar.
Meet the Team Behind BGW Construction
Your Local Hendricks County Home Remodeling Experts
At BGW Construction, we bring expert craftsmanship and innovative design to every remodeling and renovation project. Serving the greater Hendricks County area, we specialize in home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, and outdoor living transformations.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, or complete a full home renovation, our team is dedicated to making your vision a reality. We take pride in delivering high-quality renovations that enhance functionality, beauty, and value.
Beyond interiors, we also specialize in outdoor living spaces through custom hardscapes, patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and retaining walls. We believe your home should be a place you love, inside and out.
When you choose BGW Construction, you’re not just getting a contractor—you’re getting a trusted partner in creating a space that feels like home. Let’s bring your dream home to life, inside and out.