Finding that your home feels cramped and you’re outgrowing your current space? Before taking on the major task of moving or adding on an expensive extension, consider some smart tips to extend your living area without breaking the bank. With some creative ideas to maximise what you already have or make simple additions, you can gain the extra room your household needs. Read on for four tips to expand your usable square footage.
- Re-Purpose Wasted Areas
Take a fresh look at any underutilised nooks, alcoves, attics, basements, or porches around your property. Could these be transformed into liveable spaces? Even awkward areas might work with some reconfiguring. Turn that weird corner into a reading nook. Convert the basement or attic into a kids’ playroom or media lounge. Add insulation, lighting, and amenities to make enclosed porches more comfortable for extended hanging out or working from home. With some cleaning out and elbow grease, you can uncover hidden potential.
- Build a Log Cabin
If you have available garden space, building a small log cabin can add a cute extra retreat. Modern kit cabins have come a long way from pioneer days in terms of amenities and finishes. Prefab kits make the construction simple enough for motivated DIYers, with styles ranging from rustic to luxurious. Opt for a guest cottage, pool house, home office, or hangout space. Run electricity to add lighting, heating and cooling, plus device charging capacity and Wi-Fi. Add plumbing for running water and a restroom for convenience. Customise the interior layout and décor to your tastes for an enjoyable getaway right at home.
- Add a Sunroom
Harness the warm glow of natural light with a sunroom addition, which can function as a greenhouse, breakfast nook, parlour, or all-season porch. Consulting a contractor is wise to handle structural preparations and modifications to exterior walls. But much of the work, like framing walls and windows, running electric, flooring, and wall treatments, might be DIY-friendly ways to save on installation costs. Position French doors or sliding glass panels to seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Decorate with wicker furniture, cafe seating, and lush houseplants to enhance the cheerful vibe.
- Convert the Garage
If you have an attached garage that mostly serves as storage rather than housing cars, consider converting some or all of that space into a room addition. Frame interior walls to create a separate room. Insulate walls and ceiling to control temperature. Run wiring for lighting, outlets, etc, to make it functional. Install plasterboard and paint for a finished look. Use it as a gym, theatre, game room, workspace, or whatever your home is lacking. Just be sure to leave access to electrical panels or utilities inside.
With some smart planning and targeted renovations, you can unlock extra living space without the headaches of moving or elaborate construction projects. Make better use of areas you already have or build simple additions to enjoy more comfortable room for activities, hobbies, remote work, guests, or family time.
