Home Additions: How to Make Your Space Feel Original
Whether it’s a bigger kitchen, a new primary suite, or a detached ADU, additions succeed when they balance zoning, structure, and design continuity.
Start with Feasibility
Zoning review. Confirm setbacks, height limits, lot coverage/FAR, parking, and any HOA rules.
Survey & utilities. Locate property lines, easements, and underground lines.
Site strategy. Think drainage, trees, access for equipment, and where construction staging will go.
Define the Right Type of Addition
Bump‑out: Small extension on an existing foundation—great for a bigger kitchen or mudroom.
Full‑scale addition: New rooms with their own foundation.
Second story/dormer: Adds area without losing yard but impacts structure and stairs.
ADU/garage apartment: Independent living; often separate utility considerations.
Design for Seamlessness
Rooflines & proportions should complement the existing house.
Transitions. Carry through trim profiles, flooring species, window styles, and sill heights for continuity.
Natural light. Use windows, transoms, and skylights strategically to avoid dark interior zones created by the old/new interface.
Structure, Envelope, and Systems
Structural tie‑in is critical—engineer beams, headers, and load paths.
Weatherproofing. Flashing, WRB continuity, and proper integration of new to old siding/roofing prevent leaks.
HVAC & electrical capacity. Decide whether to upsize equipment, add a new zone, or use a dedicated system for the addition. Check electrical panel capacity early.
Energy performance. Upgraded insulation and air‑sealing improve comfort and operating costs.
Permitting, Pricing & Schedule
Plans & approvals come first.
Budget with allowances for finishes still TBD, and hold a 10–15% contingency for surprises in the existing structure.
Timeline varies widely: simple bump‑outs may be a few months; multi‑story or complex ADUs take longer, especially with utility upgrades.
Construction Flow
Site prep, excavation & foundation (or footings/piers for bump‑outs).
Framing & dry‑in (tie rooflines and WRB).
Rough‑ins for MEP; inspections.
Insulation, drywall, and interior finishes.
Exterior finishes to match the existing home.
Finals, punch list, and close‑out (as‑builts, warranties).
Living through it: Plan dust containment, a defined worker path, and weekly check‑ins with your GC. Give neighbors a heads‑up; good communication smooths the process.
