Your current home can become the space of your dreams when you invest in custom home additions that optimize your living area. Although custom additions to homes and modifications can increase your home’s value, this type of project requires detailed planning and execution that can be challenging to complete without the help of experienced designers. If you are considering a renovation project to amplify your home, here is what you must consider:

• Determine the motivation behind your home addition before getting started.

Considering the motivation behind adding an addition to your home can help you develop the most efficient strategy to accomplish your ideal remodel. It is important to determine the purpose the new space will serve in regard to the access of the new addition. Furthermore, knowing if you need to include additional storage space or other features that will make the planning and execution of your remodel smooth and seamless.

• Make the necessary preparations for your home to be renovated.

Making adequate preparations for your custom renovation can help the project run smoothly throughout the duration of the construction. Even if you are only adding to one area of your home, the rest of your space will also be affected, so covering your furniture, putting away valuable items, and creating barriers can reduce the spread of dirt and debris throughout the rest of the house.

It is also necessary to prepare for your electric and water supplies to temporarily be shut off during the construction process. Making arrangements in advance to stay elsewhere during the renovation can reduce the disruption to your daily life, but with thoughtful planning and the help of experienced contractors, everything should go according to plan as your idea comes to life.

• Ensure you have considered all zoning requirements for your custom home addition.

When designing your custom home addition, it is also necessary to consider any zoning restrictions that may impact your project. Some restrictions impact how close you can build to other property lines and nearby structures, so to ensure your construction can run from start to finish, referencing all ordinances, legal restrictions, and other zoning requirements can prevent a last-minute change of plans.

When completing any remodeling or expansion project on your home, it is also a great idea to consult your current insurance policy to determine if the additional square footage will be covered. When creating a design plan that abides by all laws and requirements, you may have the option to expand a room by adding another story if the zoning restrictions prohibit you from expanding a room outwards. Receiving assistance from a professional designer can significantly impact your planning process, helping you navigate the zoning laws as they find the perfect approach based on the floor plan, traffic pattern, and energy requirements of your space.

• Evaluate your budget for your custom home addition project to plan accordingly.

It may be impossible to plan for all potential costs when undergoing a renovation project, so protecting yourself with a well-cushioned budget can help save you from any unexpected costs. When planning your budget, it is beneficial to have a clear idea of your expectations for the project, so you know which areas to prioritize if budget cuts become necessary. This is also the perfect opportunity to plan for the increased energy costs of adding space in your home that will require power, air conditioning, or water, so you are prepared for the long-term investment to be made.

Consulting an experienced designer and contractor can help streamline the budgeting process as you make the decisions about which materials and design are most appropriate for your custom home addition. With professional help, you can be confident that your project will be completed in a timely manner and within the scope of your previously determined budget.

The process of upgrading your space through a custom home addition can be simple and exciting with the professional assistance of a thoughtful home designer. If you are ready to elevate your home and create a space you adore, start your journey today and consult with OH Design Lab.