and a primary suite with a walk-in closet. Outside, there is a fire pit, pool, and hot tub. Why it’s here: It's a creekside barndominium nestled on 4 wooded acres for an affordable price.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Lacey Harwood, a 39-year-old "barndominium" owner based one hour outside of Houston. It has been edited for length and clarity. In 2010 ...