Different Types of Home Additions To Consider

Are you thinking of expanding your living space? Whether you need more room for your growing family, a quiet place to work from home, or better guest accommodations, a home addition may be the answer.

Explore the many options available to help you envision what will work best for your needs.

Benefits of Home Additions

Here’s why a home addition is worth considering:

• Increased living space: As your family grows, so does the need for additional space. A home addition provides the extra room necessary to accommodate everyone.
• Enhanced property value: Adding square footage and amenities boosts your home’s value and makes it more appealing to potential buyers.
• Customization options: Tailor your home based on what’s most important to you, whether that’s a spacious primary suite, a sunroom, or a home office.
• No need to move: Instead of uprooting your family, a home addition allows you to stay put while gaining much-needed space.

Types of Home Additions

The possibilities for expanding your home are nearly limitless. Here are some popular additions, along with the perks and challenges they bring:

Room Additions & Bump-Outs

Room additions and bump-outs involve adding a whole new room or extending an existing one. The biggest perk of a room addition is obvious: more space! You get the square footage you need without a massive overhaul.

However, local building regulations may come into play, so secure permits before construction begins to avoid hiccups. Also, carefully consider what your home is missing to ensure you add enough space in the right place.

Primary Suite Additions

A primary suite addition may include a bedroom, an attached bathroom, and a large walk-in closet. The pros are hard to beat. You gain privacy, endless customization options, and boosted resale value down the road.

Still, adding bathroom plumbing can get tricky, and you’ll need to think strategically about the suite’s location to connect to your existing plumbing infrastructure. Your suite should also be close enough to feel connected to the rest of the house but far enough away for peace and quiet.

Kitchen Additions

A kitchen addition expands your cooking and entertaining space, making it a joy to host friends or whip up family dinners. With more counter space, upgraded appliances, and room for a breakfast nook, your kitchen can become the ideal gathering place. And don’t forget the impact on home value — buyers love a spacious, modern kitchen.

On the downside, designing a kitchen addition requires careful consideration to ensure the new space flows naturally with the rest of your home. You’ll also need to plan the layout so the fridge, stove, and sink are in just the right spots.

Bathroom Additions

If your home has too many people and too few bathrooms, add an extra one to streamline your morning routine. The pros of a bathroom addition are clear: comfort, convenience, and less waiting time. It’s also a smart investment if you’re looking to sell soon.

That said, you’ll need to consider practicalities like plumbing, especially if the new bathroom isn’t close to existing water lines. And don’t skimp on the design if you want the space to feel like a mini-retreat.

Sunroom, Porch, Patio & Deck Additions

These additions are ideal if you love the outdoors but also enjoy the comforts of home. Whether you envision a sunroom full of light, a deck for summer barbecues, or a covered patio to curl up with a good book, these upgrades can transform your home with added versatility.

Of course, sunrooms, porches, patios, and decks come with a few considerations. First, you’ll want materials that can withstand weather changes, and ventilation is important to keep enclosed spaces like sunrooms comfortable year-round.

In-Law Suites & Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

An in-law suite or ADU is perfect if you need a separate, independent living area for family members or a living space you can rent out for extra income. These additions typically include a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette.

Just remember to consider privacy and practicality. A separate entrance is often necessary, and zoning laws dictate what’s allowed in your area.

Garage Additions

A garage addition isn’t just for cars. It’s also a fantastic way to add storage or create a multipurpose space like a workshop, gym, or hobby room.

However, you’ll want to make sure the addition matches your home’s style and includes plenty of built-in storage to keep things organized.

Second-Story Additions

When you can’t build out, build up! A second-story addition can double your home’s square footage without taking up more of your lot. It’s perfect for adding multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, or a home office.

However, second-story additions come with some hefty considerations. Your home’s foundation and structure must support the extra weight, and costs can add up quickly if complications arise. You’ll also need to navigate local building codes to ensure everything is above board.

Planning Your Home Addition

No matter what addition you choose, careful planning is the key to success. Here’s how to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Set a budget and timeline: Know what you can afford and have an idea of how long it will take before the project begins.
• Understand local zoning laws and permits: Ensure your project adheres to local regulations and secure the necessary permits to avoid legal issues.
• Create a design that complements the existing home: The addition should integrate with your home’s style and layout so it looks like it’s always been there.
• Engage with professionals: Large-scale home improvements are faster and easier with trained professionals by your side. Work with a knowledgeable designer and builder to bring your vision to life.

Plan Your Home Addition With Us

Meridian Construction has been helping homeowners in Montgomery and Bucks counties expand their spaces and enhance their lives since 1989. As a family-owned, award-winning design/build firm, we proudly deliver exceptional craftsmanship, stress-free remodeling, and unbeatable customer service.

If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation today.