4 Essential Tips for Planning a Successful Home Addition

Making an addition to your home is no easy task. However, with proper planning, you can help any renovation project continue without a hitch. Below are some best practices and suggestions for planning a successful home addition.

1. Set Your Budget and Timeline

   
   

When you’re considering making an addition to your home, your first step should be to consider how much you’d like to spend on the project, and your time-frame for completing it.  

If you don’t have a concrete budget established from the beginning, it’s much easier to spend more than you bargained for, which can lead to delays and frustration down the line if you pause on construction until you can get your hands on more funds. 

Plus, depending on the climate where you live, you may have a limited window for completing construction. So, you should get an estimate on how long it will take to finish the project, whether you are DIY’ing it or hiring a professional. 

1. Determine Your Goals

   
   

By the time you decide to make a home addition, you’ve probably already determined your goal for the space. Maybe you want space for a guest room, a mud room for storing shoes and outerwear, or a bonus space for your children. 

However, it can be worthwhile to consider your wants and needs in further detail before you start to break ground. This way, you can ensure you’re maximizing the new space and solving an actual problem or need your family has. Otherwise, you may finish the project and realize that the addition is in an inconvenient location or is missing features that will make it functional. 

1. Check Local Zoning Regulations

   
   

Your home addition project will need to comply with local zoning guidelines, and chances are, you’ll need to secure a permit before you begin construction. These laws vary by location, so make sure to consult with the planning department in your city to understand the requirements and restrictions. 

1. Make a Mood Board

   
   

Aside from the technical aspects of the home addition, you should also consider the aesthetic side, including the finishes, materials, paint colors, and even the furniture and accessories you want to include.

It can be helpful to create a mood board, allowing you to compile the various elements side-by-side before making your final selections. You’ll probably want to match the aesthetic of the new addition with the rest of your home. But, if you’re interested in a different look, see if you can at least complement the new style and finishes with your existing aesthetic. 

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Written by Bailey Schramm in partnership with Werever outdoor kitchen cabinets.