Home renovations are as diverse as the people they’re built for, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to building your dream home. But that doesn’t mean you should go into it blind. We’ve put together this handy list of the most common Home Additions you would need in 2023.
If you know what you want to see improved or completed, take some time to familiarize yourself with our suggestions before starting your project. Then, use our visual guide to get a better idea of how your renovations will change the look, feel and function of every room.
Which Home Additions You Can Make Easily
This is a project that most people don’t consider until after they’ve lived in their home for a while and start to realize that it’s too small for everything they want to do in it. Adding an extra level may be the answer if you can’t expand outwards.
Easy as pie: If your building code allows you to build another story without expanding outside the footprint of your house, then this is a simple job—as long as you have enough space and money left over. In this case, you don’t even have to worry about hiring a contractor. Just get your architect to draw up the plans and follow them exactly.
Most common additions:
Home office: According to the Hartman Group, 72% of Americans want an office at home, so why not give them one? Pulling an extra room out of thin air is one way to make this happen, but it’s also possible to convert an existing space such as a sunroom or finished attic. The important thing is that you have room for a desk and all your gear for your Home Addition.
Bedroom: Let’s face it: To most people, a bedroom is just a place to sleep. But some people need more in the way of room for their stuff and for personalizing their space. The solution is simple: Add on! (Of course, if you like the finished look of your bedroom, then saving money by building a bedroom addition will be tough to beat.)
Living room: One thing that most people don’t consider with an Home Additions is how much it will change the overall feel of their living space. By adding another story to your house, you can create more space in your existing room while retaining all the structural integrity of the building. The only difference is that you have more room for furniture, decorations and entertainment systems.
Shed: Many people haven’t given much thought to the idea of a shed on their property. But once they do, they realize how much easier life can be if they have a durable place to store their things instead of relying on less-than-reliable storage solutions like the basement or attic.
Next Level Additions
This is a more complicated project because you’ll need to figure out how to connect your new story with your old one while also making room for stairs (and possibly elevators). Talk to your contractor about adding two elevators if you’re not sure whether you should tackle this job yourself or hire a pro.
If you can get everything figured out, then this is a simple project that almost anyone can do. But of course, if you’re not comfortable with demolition or construction then leave it to the pros.
Bottom line
Building an addition is a big job, but it’s a great way to expand your living space without having to buy another house. If you’re looking for ideas, we’ve got them. But if you want to handle the job yourself, that’s OK too—just make sure you know what you’re doing before you get started.