No one wants to feel cramped and crowded in a home. However, as families grow and need change, homeowners often start considering ways to expand their living space.
And when it comes to expanding a home, the most common options are ground floor extensions and home additions.
Now, you might wonder, “Is there any difference between the two?” The answer is yes!
While both options involve increasing the living space, they differ in terms of cost, time, and complexity.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about ground-floor extensions and home additions so you can make an informed decision for your home in Melbourne.
What’s the Difference?
First things first, let’s define what we’re talking about:
-
Ground Floor Extension:
This involves adding more space to the lower level of your home. It usually means expanding your kitchen, living room, or dining area by building an additional room onto the existing structure.
-
Home Addition:
This generally refers to adding new rooms or spaces to your home, rather than just expanding the existing ones. This could include adding a new bedroom, bathroom, or even a second story onto your home.
Why Choose a Ground Floor Extension?
Here’s why many people find ground floor extensions in Melbourne appealing:
-
Easier Access:
No stairs or elevators are needed, making it great for staying in your home as you age or if you have mobility issues.
-
Better Use of Space:
Often, it’s easier to create large, open spaces on the ground floor, which can be great for family rooms, kitchens, or dining areas.
-
Increased Natural Light:
There’s nothing quite like natural light in a home and ground-floor extensions can help bring in more of it. By opening up the space with large windows or glass doors, you can create a bright and airy feel to your home.
Note: Consider how much garden or outdoor space you’re willing to sacrifice. Extensions will intrude on your backyard, so think about how this might impact your outdoor lifestyle.
What About Home Additions?
Home additions are another way to increase your living space. Let’s see how it helps:
-
More Space Options:
By adding an extra room or level to your home, you have more options for how to use the space. You can create a new bedroom, home office, or even a rental unit.
-
Potential for Better Views:
Adding a second floor can give you better views or a different perspective of your surroundings.
-
Increased Home Value:
Depending on your area, adding another floor might boost your home’s market value more than extending outward.
Note: Your home addition should be permitted appropriately and constructed according to local regulations and codes. This will ensure the safety of your home and future resale value.
Head-to-Head Comparison Between Ground Floor Extension and Home Addition
Here’s a quick comparison to help you weigh your options:
Aspect | Ground Floor Extension | Home Addition |
Access | Easy, no stairs | May require stairs or an elevator |
Space Usage | Great for large, open spaces | Can add various types of rooms |
Cost | Generally more affordable | Can be more expensive due to structural changes |
Disruption | Less disruption to daily life | More disruption, especially if adding a second story |
Natural Light | More opportunities for windows | Depends on the design and placement |
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a ground floor extension and a home addition ultimately comes down to personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of your family. Regardless of your decision, our team at Prem Built can help you create the perfect space for your home. Contact us today to get started!