Why Move When You Can Expand?
Adding a second storey addition to your home can be a great alternative to moving house if you want to create more space for your growing family. It can also improve your lifestyle and give family members more privacy and personal space through the addition of another bedroom or bathroom. No matter what your reasons for expanding are, there are a few things to consider if you are planning to complete a second floor addition in Perth.
The first thing to consider is whether the current structure of your home will be strong enough to support another storey. Advantages of building up include that you will be able to retain outdoor space and maximise your yard space. This will allow room for outdoor entertainment, children’s play areas, a pool, garage or even a veggie patch for your family to enjoy.
Another benefit of a second floor addition is the potential of gaining views, depending on the location of your property. If you live near the coast or have access to views of the city, this will work in your favour and is a no-brainer. Gaining views adds immense value to your home, and makes this a very worthwhile exercise.
The small disadvantages of building up will include having to sacrifice ground floor space to create room for a staircase. This usually equates to losing approximately half to one room downstairs. Another factor to consider is that adding another storey is a more expensive exercise than extending outwards.
A second storey addition may involve having to overcome local council rules and regulations. For example, the upstairs rooms should not block the neighbours’ sunlight, windows and setbacks. They need to take into account your neighbours’ privacy and prevent overlooking issues. A good building designer who is familiar with your area and local council will be aware of what needs to be considered as part of the design process to ensure that your second storey addition plans get approved by council as soon as possible.
Once you have weighed up the pros and cons, adding more space to your home with a second storey is a guaranteed way to improve your family’s lifestyle while adding value to your home. Creating more room gives family members the opportunity to live more comfortably in the family home for years to come without being on top of one another, and to remain in the neighbourhood that they have come to love without having to move. If you eventually decide to sell your home, the addition of a second floor will increase the value significantly. If you would like to discuss your second storey addition ideas with an expert in the field, Contact us today and our talented design staff will help find the perfect solution for you.