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Thoughtful home additions add style, value
Many homeowners eventually come to a time when they consider moving -- or adding on to their existing home -- in order to gain living space. In some cases, the need may be prompted by the desire to make room for Mom or Dad, who can no longer live alone but don't have the need for a nursing care facility.
If you are considering adding on to your home, take comfort in the fact that there are a few simple concepts that can make the process easier and more cost-effective.
First, consider carefully the location of the add-on space. Local zoning laws, which are usually available online, will help you determine the set-back limits required from neighboring property lines. If possible, situating the addition within visible site lines from the home's main entry will enhance the overall feeling of spaciousness of your home.
A continuous flow of the existing flooring material into the new space will reinforce this effect. Use other architectural features to their maximum potential as well -- locating a single, over-scaled window at the end of the room will allow the view to continue unimpeded to the outdoors.
Next, consider the square footage required and the footprint that this could take. In a well-planned space, a relatively conservative 400 square feet can efficiently house a bright, sunny living room with a comfortable sleeping alcove and full bathroom.
How many square feet you allocate to each room of the add-on suite will dramatically affect how the space is used and enjoyed. Consider allocating a generous amount to a living room that can be used by Mom or Dad most of the day and will comfortably accommodate visits from other family members.
The sleeping area of the suite can then be smaller and more private, perhaps an alcove-type space with room for a bed, nightstand and reading chair.
The bathroom can be laid out to facilitate easy accessibility. Care should be taken to provide proper clearance for wheelchair users; professional advice is best sought here.
Furnishings and finishes can also be thoughtfully chosen to enhance the mood that the architecture creates. In an open, sunny room with vistas to the outdoors, consider being inspired by nature's palette. Soft green walls set the tone, enhanced by warm wood tones and floral-inspired accents like blue and yellow.
Carry the same palette of colors into the other adjoining rooms, perhaps switching up the mix and using a cool, serene blue on the bedroom walls with crisp white, yellow and blue bed linens.
In the bathroom the freshness of white tile and fixtures can be dramatically enhanced with the select placement of blue accents. Even the simplest of building materials can make a dramatic impact when set off by the contrast of a vibrant colorful accent in tile, towels and accessories.
Keeping your addition affordable is possible if you take the time to carefully consider all your options. With proper planning you can add both comfort and value to your home.
Elisa Schneider is an interior design consultant in Centreville. She can be reached at 703-203-3099.
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