A living space is essential in any home. To start, it can give you an area for your hobbies, and more so, it enables you to host large family gatherings and parties with ease. An ample living space can also give you enough room to move and breathe.
Increasing your home’s living space can be an excellent way to improve functionality and aesthetics. It can make your home feel and look larger without extensive renovations that may break the bank. Some of these projects are also DIY-friendly, especially for those who want to develop their craftsmanship.
That said, here are six affordable home addition ideas to increase your living space.
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1. Bump Out Living Room Extension
A bump-out living room extension is one of the ways to increase your living space. You can still live comfortably in your home while this project is being done, which is more convenient than building a second or third story.
Building a bump-out extension may depend on your target location. If you’re planning to extend space on your second story, you can bump out a maximum of two feet for a cantilever. When it exceeds two feet, you may need to build columns below to reinforce the extension. That said, it may be best to consult a professional before you proceed with this project.
On the other hand, adding a bump-out extension on the ground floor can be less complicated. Depending on the available lot area, you can extend up to 10-15 feet. Adding some windows or a skylight can also help add natural light to the space.
One of the ways you can proceed with the bump-out extension option is by purchasing a customised steel building kit. After specifying the total area, height, and design of the extension, you can get everything you need to be delivered to your doorstep. Most steel building companies also offer assistance from planning to construction.
2. Attic And Basement Conversion
The attic and basement are often the home’s most neglected spaces. They’re usually used as storage for items you forget exist. In time, they can accumulate dust and turn into a breeding ground for pests if not cleaned regularly.
Instead of leaving these spaces as is, you can convert them into additional living areas. For example, you can turn your basement into a game room or perhaps a home music studio. Since it’s already well-insulated, it could be ideal for hobbies that require soundproofing.
Moreover, the attic can also be converted into a family room. You can use it as a movie room with a convertible sofa bed to double as a guest room. There’s also the option to turn it into a hobby room or anything you like while still utilizing it as a storage space. All you need is proper organization and regular cleaning.
3. Covered Outdoor Living Area
Adding outdoor living areas is another great option to increase your living space while getting to enjoy the fresh air, especially during summer. It can give you flexible space for hosting parties and additional spots you can utilize for relaxation.
For instance, one area you can improve is your covered porch. You may spruce it up by adding outdoor furniture pieces like a couch, swing chair, and a small coffee table. You may also install roll-down waterproof covers for weatherproofing.
Another excellent addition is an outdoor kitchen and dining space. You may extend your existing porch at the back of your house to create this functional area. It could be a great idea to have a barbecue with family or friends during weekends. It can also be perfect for those who have a backyard swimming pool.
4. Switching To An Open Plan
One interior design hack that can help increase the sense of space in your home is to have an open plan. Instead of dividing the kitchen, dining, and living room with walls, you can combine them into one large area.
Switching to an open plan can increase your living space without extending your home. Aside from breaking down existing walls, it may also require some changes to the floor layout. You may also need to get rid of bulky furniture pieces and use space-saving ones instead. Doing so can make your interiors more spacious.
Along with switching to an open plan is reorganizing and decluttering your home. During the renovation, you might discover some items you no longer use. That said, you may need to sort and dispose of unused things to avoid clutter. This way, you can keep the home neat and clean.
5. Sunroom Or Conservatory
Adding a sunroom or conservatory may not be as affordable as other options. Still, the space it can add to your home could be worth spending. It’s a flexible space that you can use as a reading, yoga, and meditation room.
A sunroom is perfect for locations with warm temperate weather. It lets you enjoy the sun during the day and view the stars at night if you install a skylight or a transparent roof. It can also be a great place to relax, especially if your home is surrounded by nature.
Moreover, a sunroom can also serve as an indoor garden. You can grow small fruit-bearing trees and plants, and it can be a perfect addition for homeowners who enjoy gardening.
For better weather protection during summer and winter, it’s recommended to install double-glazed windows. If your sunroom is fully glazed, doubling on insulation may be necessary to keep the heat and cold out.
6. Veranda
A veranda is a covered space wrapped around the home’s exteriors. They’re often railed, but you can also leave them open, similar to traditional Japanese houses. These spaces extend the outdoor living space without the complicated construction required.
Most tiny houses build a deck to extend their living area. It can be a great place to hang out and enjoy the breeze while drinking a cup of coffee in the morning. Not only that, but it can also be ideal for barbecue and outdoor dining. If you’re residing in an area surrounded by fantastic scenery, adding a veranda lets you enjoy the views.
Furthermore, verandas could also be a great space to entertain during summer. Some tiny house owners even choose to install a built-in bathtub. You may also place a jacuzzi and outdoor shower if you’re aiming for a tropical vibe. Planting some small trees and bushes may help add privacy to the space if needed.
Conclusion
Increasing your home’s living space doesn’t have to be complicated. All you need is proper planning and creativity to start some of these home improvement projects.
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