There are many types of home additions, which refer to the process of expanding or renovating an existing home to increase its living space, improve the functionality for your family or change the way it looks to help make it more enjoyable for your life. A home addition can help you accomplish any of those.
The following home improvement projects can help you increase your livable square footage and, in some cases, increase your home value.
Many of our clients with higher-end homes often opt for home additions to:
- Enhance the luxury and comfort of their homes
- Increase the “living room” of their home … more space, more options
- Increase the usability & functionality of their home
- Create living areas that will help them age in place
- Assist with the care of a loved one
Whether you need an extra bedroom, a larger kitchen, or a space for entertaining guests, there are many different types of home additions that can transform your living space. These include:
- Second story additions
- Kitchen additions
- Sunrooms or 3 season rooms
- Master suites
- Room additions
- Garage additions
- Basement conversions
- Outdoor living spaces
8 Types of Home Additions That Will Transform Your Living Space
In this article, we’re going to explore five types of home additions that will not only enhance your quality of life, but also may contribute to the value of your home.
Second Story Home Additions
Second story additions are a popular choice for homeowners who want to add extra living space without expanding their home’s footprint. This type of addition involves building a second level on top of an existing single story home. Second story additions are ideal for families who need more bedrooms or living space, but cannot expand their home horizontally due to lot size or zoning regulations.
Before starting a second story addition, it’s important to hire a reputable architect and local contractor who have experience with this type of project. (We have a trusted partner … ESM Architects … that we’ve worked with for years.)
The architect will help design the new living space and ensure that it conforms to the existing structure’s style and aesthetics. As the contractor, we will oversee the construction process and ensure that it meets all building codes and safety guidelines.
In addition to adding livable space, a second-story addition can significantly increase the value of a home. According to Remodeling Magazine, a master suite addition can recoup up over 68% of its cost when the home is sold. This makes it a smart investment for homeowners who want to add value to their property while also improving their quality of life.
Kitchen addition
Another popular type of home addition that can transform your living space is a kitchen addition.
Do you find yourself running out of counter space or struggling to fit all your appliances into your current kitchen? A kitchen extension could be the solution you need. By adding extra square footage, countertops, or storage space, you can create a more functional and enjoyable space for cooking, dining, and entertaining.
When planning a kitchen addition, it’s important to consider factors such as the layout, lighting, addition cost and materials. You’ll want to work with a skilled designer (we have partnered with Annie Miller Designs for years) and contractor who can help you create a space that meets your needs and reflects your personal style. Additionally, you should think about how you will use the space and what type of appliances and fixtures you’ll need. This will help ensure that your kitchen extension is not only beautiful, but also practical and functional.
Creating these types of home additions can be a great way to upgrade your living space and improve your quality of life. Whether you’re considering a second-story addition, a kitchen extension, or another type of addition, it’s important to work with experienced professionals who can guide you through the process and ensure a successful outcome. By investing in your home, you can create a space that meets your needs and brings you joy for years to come.
Sunrooms or 3-Season Rooms
Sunrooms, also known as 3-season rooms, are a popular addition for homeowners who want to enjoy the outdoors while still being protected from the elements. These rooms are typically built with large windows and a glass roof to provide ample natural light and ventilation. Sunrooms can be used as a relaxation space, a dining area, or even a home office.
When designing a sunroom or 3-season room, homeowners should consider the location of the room, the orientation of the windows, and the materials used in construction. For example, if the sunroom will be used for entertaining guests, it may be beneficial to have it located near the kitchen or outdoor living space. Additionally, the orientation of the windows should take into account the direction of the sun to ensure that the room remains comfortable throughout the day.
Sunrooms can add value to a home by providing additional living space and improving its overall aesthetic. According to the National Association of Realtors, sunrooms have an average return on investment of 46%. This makes them a great option for homeowners who are looking to add value to their property while also enjoying the benefits of a beautiful and functional space.
Sunrooms are a great addition for homeowners who want to enjoy the outdoors while remaining indoors. This type of addition involves building a room with large windows to let in natural light and provide a view of the outdoors. Sunrooms can be used as a relaxation area, reading room, or even as an office space.
A south-facing sunroom will receive more sunlight, making it ideal for colder climates, while a north-facing sunroom is better for warmer climates. Homeowners should also choose the right type of windows and insulation to ensure that the sunroom is energy-efficient and comfortable to use throughout the year.
In addition to adding value to a home, a sunroom can also provide health benefits. Exposure to natural light has been shown to boost mood, increase vitamin D absorption, and improve sleep quality. A sunroom is a great way to bring the outdoors in and enjoy the benefits of natural light without being exposed to the elements.
Master Suites
A master suite is the perfect addition for homeowners looking to create a luxurious retreat within their own home. This type of addition typically involves combining an existing bedroom (to become a master bedroom) with an adjacent space, such as a closet or bathroom, to create a larger and more functional living area. The result is a private oasis that provides homeowners with a comfortable and relaxing space to unwind.
When designing a master suite, it’s important to consider factors such as lighting, storage, and layout. Many homeowners opt for features such as walk-in closets, spacious bathrooms with spa-like amenities, and separate sitting areas. A well-designed master suite can not only improve the functionality of your home, but also increase its value and appeal to potential buyers.
Room Home Additions
Room additions are a popular choice for homeowners who need more space but don’t want to move. This type of addition involves adding a new room to your home, such as a guest bedroom, home office, or family room. Room additions can be attached or detached from the main house, depending on your needs and budget.
When planning a room addition, it’s important to consider factors such as the size and layout of the space, as well as the overall design aesthetic of your home. Many homeowners choose to incorporate features such as vaulted ceilings, skylights, and built-in shelving to make the space feel larger and more functional.
Room additions can be a great way to add value to your home and improve its functionality. They can also be a cost-effective alternative to moving to a larger home.
Garage additions
Garage additions are a practical and functional addition for homeowners who need more space to park their cars or store their belongings. This type of addition involves adding a new garage to your home, either attached or detached from the main house. Garage additions can also be tailored to fit different needs, such as space for a workshop, home gym, or storage area.
When planning a garage addition, it’s important to consider factors such as the size and layout of the space, as well as the materials and finishes used. Many homeowners choose to incorporate features such as windows, insulation, and heating and cooling systems to make the space more comfortable and functional.
Garage additions can also add value to your home, especially if they are well-designed and match the overall aesthetic of your home. They can also provide additional security and privacy for your vehicles and belongings.
Basement conversions
Converting a basement into a functional living space is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add square footage to their home. This type of addition involves transforming an unfinished or underutilized basement into a livable space, such as a home theater, game room, or additional bedroom.
Basement conversions are often more cost-effective than other types of additions because the structure already exists. However, it’s important to consider factors such as moisture control, lighting, and ventilation when planning a basement conversion.
With proper planning and design, a basement conversion can add both value and functionality to your home.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor living spaces are a popular addition for homeowners who want to create an extension of their indoor spaces and enjoy their outdoor areas year-round. This type of addition can include features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, covered patios, and even pools or spas. Outdoor living spaces can be designed to fit any budget and can be customized to suit your unique style and needs.
In addition to providing a space for relaxation and entertainment, outdoor living spaces can also increase the curb appeal and overall value of your home. They can be particularly desirable in areas with mild climates where outdoor living is a year-round option. When designing an outdoor living space, it’s important to consider factors such as privacy, sun exposure, and ease of access from the indoor living areas. A well
Home Theaters
Home theaters are a luxurious addition for homeowners who love to entertain and enjoy movies in the comfort of their own home. This type of addition involves designing a dedicated space for a high-quality audio and video experience. Home theaters can range from a simple setup with a large screen and comfortable seating to a fully equipped cinema with soundproof walls, custom lighting, and theater-style seating.
A well-designed home theater can also add value to your home, as it is a sought-after feature for high-end buyers. It’s important to consider factors such as the size and layout of the room, as well as the acoustics and lighting, when planning a home theater. Working with a professional audio and video installer can ensure that your home theater is designed to meet your specific needs and preferences.
With a home theater, you can enjoy the ultimate movie-watching experience without leaving your home.
Budget, Zoning Regulations & Contractors
Before diving into any home addition project, it is crucial to establish a budget and understand the zoning regulations in your area. It is important to have a clear sense of what you can afford (costs, sizes, requirements, needed items, etc.), and what you want to achieve with your addition.
Setting a budget will guide your design choices and help you prioritize the features that matter most to you with your renovation project. Similarly, zoning regulations dictate what can and cannot be built on your property, so it is essential to research these guidelines before starting construction. Failure to comply with zoning regulations can result in costly fines and even demolition of your new addition.
To ensure that your home addition project runs smoothly and meets all necessary requirements, it is recommended to work with a qualified and experienced home addition contractor. Not only will they help you stay within budget, but they are also well-versed in local zoning regulations and building codes. They can also provide guidance on hiring subcontractors and obtaining necessary permits. By working with a professional, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your addition is built to last.
There are many resources available for homeowners to research local zoning regulations and obtain the necessary permits. The first step is to contact your local building department and ask for information on the regulations and permits required for your specific project. Additionally, many online resources are available, such as the website of the National Association of Home Builders, which provides links to local building departments across the country. With a bit of research and preparation, you can ensure that your home addition project is a success.
Adding an addition to your home can vastly improve your living space and increase your home’s value. Whether you are looking to add an indoor living area, a home theater, or a mother-in-law suite, it is crucial to establish a budget, research local zoning regulations, and work with a qualified contractor or designer.
With proper planning and preparation, you can transform your home into the space of your dreams.
Types of Home Additions by DeVol Design.Build.Remodel
DeVol Design.Build.Remodel is a local contractor serving the Greater Cincinnati area with over 23 years experience in home remodeling and high-end home additions. We specialize in all types of home additions, as well as accessibility, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodeling, aging in place and accessible remodeling.
As a design+build firm, we can ensure your new spaces at home are exactly what you need them to be and function for you in a way that enhances your family’s life. From home additions to kitchen remodeling to whole house remodeling, we’re experts in making your home into what it needs to be to suite your lifestyle.