TYPES OF ADDITIONS

ROOM ADDITION OR “BUMP OUT”

Building “out” by adding new space on the ground level is one of the most popular ways homeowners add square footage to make their homes more livable and inviting. While building out requires losing some yard space and having to add a new foundation, it does come with the benefit of less daily disruption in the primary residence while construction is underway. If you’re dreaming of a home gym or a luxurious spa-like bathroom retreat, a room addition could be the ideal way to add the necessary space.

Another option to building out is the kitchen bumpout. Usually just two or three feet added to your existing kitchen, these “micro” additions don’t require a new foundation. While a kitchen bumpout is smaller than adding a whole new room, when designed correctly it can have a surprisingly significant impact on the look and feel of your home. Imagine a sunny breakfast nook, more room for storage, or a new large island and seating area in your kitchen – all can be achieved with a small addition that dramatically transforms your space.

GARAGE CONVERSION

Sometimes a simple addition over the garage, or expansion of your garage, is all that’s needed to get the extra space for your home to meet your lifestyle needs today. Popular with homeowners interested in creating rental income, or providing safe and comfortable living space for a relative, garage additions can also add an abundance of storage space and provide comfortable and private space for hobbies or work.

While a garage addition can seem like one of the simplest choices you can make to expand your space, keep in mind that the garage is a big part of your home’s curb appeal. You want to ensure that the quality of the design and construction adds to rather than detracts from the appearance and future value of your home. You’ll also need to consider the garage’s structural relationship to your existing home if the garage is attached. For instance, with living space added to your garage, you may need to add a hallway or entryway in your existing home for easier access.

Home additions give you the extra space you need and more control over the details than some remodels since you’re “starting from scratch.” They can be one of the most rewarding home projects you ever undertake, allowing you to stay in your own neighborhood while adapting your home as your lifestyle changes.

SECOND STORY ADDITION

When you’re dreaming about more space, whether to go vertical or horizontal is the first choice you’ll need to make. Building “up” by adding a second level to your home, or adding living space above an existing garage or deck, can be more affordable than building “out”, depending on your home’s current structure. A second level is also the right choice for those with restrictions on the footprint of their home or for those who want to retain as much outdoor living space as possible.

Building up requires meticulous planning and attention to detail. You’ll want the addition to preserve the design integrity of your home, which requires professionals who are experts in adding space that seamlessly integrates with an existing structure. Also keep in mind that building up will present more disruption to daily life, as contractors will need to be inside your home working on the level(s) below to ensure the integrity of the new space. Most homeowners will want to move out during some phase of the construction when building up.

In coastal areas such as San Diego, building up isn’t always an option due to local ordinances. When you’re selecting a contractor for your addition, select a company with extensive knowledge about the restrictions in your neighborhood and extensive experience in designing with them in mind.

ADUS

When you’re considering a home addition to accommodate a relative, an ADU could be the smart choice. An accessory dwelling unit, or “ADU” is a detached or attached structure built on your property, with its own kitchen and bathroom. These “tiny homes” are also known as granny flats or mother-in-law suites as they have traditionally been used as comfortable independent living for aging relatives. Today, ADUs are used for a number of purposes including additional short or long term rental income, or as a guest house or hobby space. An ADU expands the living capacity of your property and can increase its market value.

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

One of the most important considerations when working on a home addition is that the design makes sense visually with your existing home. Adding a sleek ultra-modern addition to your traditional home would be jarring, and the same in reverse. But even aside from obvious style differences, it’s the design and architectural details that will really make a difference in how natural your home addition looks, feels, and functions.  It’s important to work with experienced contractors who have both designers and architects on staff to develop a design that melds with your existing home, to create an addition that looks as if it has always belonged. You’ll also need a firm with knowledge about your neighborhood’s zone regulations and permitting requirements.