How to Design an Extension to Your House
House extensions and additions are the best way to get more from your existing home. There’s no need to hunt for a new house or search for the perfect block – you can stay right where you are! Building a house extension is an incredibly versatile option that allows you to transform your property into an oasis that perfectly suits your lifestyle. The only real challenge is planning an extension that offers everything you need. In this article we’ll go over the basics of how to design an extension to your house and some things you need to consider along the way.
1. Think About Your Needs
You’re building a house extension for a reason. Maybe you bought a small, older home. Or maybe your family is growing and the way you use your home is changing. Whatever the case, the first stage of designing a house extension is planning out exactly what you need. Sit down with the whole family and discuss what you do and don’t like about your current home, then make a list of the features you want to add.
Think about your needs, now and into the future, and consider whether you want:
Additional bedrooms
Additional bathrooms
New living areas
Office and workspaces
Lofts or additional storeys
These are just some common examples of how an extension can transform the way you live. The sky’s the limit when it comes to extensions, so feel free to dream big and plan a project that has all the features you need!
2. Consider Your Block
If you need more bedrooms, additional living spaces or simply want to update the property, an extension can offer everything you’re looking for. Throughout the design and planning process you’ll need to make sure your property is compatible with your extension ideas. For example, some properties are subject to height limits, so you may not be able to add an extra storey to your home. Likewise, many people find that their extensions are limited by easements, setbacks and other council restrictions.
Your custom home builder will be able to help navigate any planning issues that arise along the way. Otherwise, there are a few simple things you can do to work around council and neighbourhood restrictions:
Design your extension in a style that’s similar to the existing home
Be mindful of your neighbours and whether any additions will affect their property
Avoid designing an extension that strays too close to fences, footpaths or property boundaries
3. Sketch Out Your Ideas
This step is optional, but it’s often helpful to put your big ideas on paper.
Designing your own extension can be a challenge. There are lots of things you need to consider, and it’s easy to spend long hours chipping away at the design. The important thing here is that you don’t need to draw a professional blueprint. House extensions are usually designed with the support of your builder and their architectural partners. You can rely on their help to turn your main ideas into finished plans. All you really need to do is put your ideas into one place to give your builder a rough idea of what you want to achieve.
4. Choose a Builder
A Sydney home builder is the best resource you could hope to have during a house extension. You can begin searching for a builder at any time, but you’ll eventually need to settle on a team to handle your project. It’s always a good idea to meet with several builders in your area to find out more about how they work. Ultimately, the builder you choose needs to be a company that understands your vision. Different companies have different styles, workflows and specialisations, so make sure your builder can deliver the quality finishes you’re expecting.
Design a Stunning House Extension or Addition with SSR Projects!
Your life is always evolving, so it only makes sense that your home changes along with your family. A house extension or addition can transform the way you live and ensure that your home is the perfect space for decades to come. If you’re interested in extending your home, have a chat with the team from SSR Projects! SSR Projects is a custom home builder working throughout Sydney and the Sutherland Shire. Our experienced team is happy to take on a wide range of house extension projects. We focus on designing house extensions that are filled with the luxury details and finishes that make a real impact on your everyday life. Contact us today if you’d like a quote for a home extension project!