Project Remodeling: Making Space for a Growing Family
No matter if you always wanted to remodel and expand your home or if you’ve just found yourself elbowing for space with your growing family, there are many amazing ways you can make some extra space in your home. If you don’t have the money to move or if you just adore your neighborhood, you don’t even have to consider this option. Instead, consider a few of these remodeling projects that will make your small home work for your growing family.
Add a second bathroom
Many family arguments start around the bathroom, so stop the screaming by creating a second bathroom. A small powder room requires very little space but makes a big difference when all of you are getting ready for school and work in the morning. If you can’t spare any other space, you can repurpose your closet or pantry, but walling off a small section of your hallway or bedroom can also work.
Open up the space
Open floor plans are popular for many reasons. They allow better supervision of your kids and they make the space look bigger, airier and more modern. Plus, getting an open floor plan is not super hard. All you have to do is strategically pick a few walls and kick them down. Most people choose to open the kitchen and create one big space that connects with their living room. If you can’t remove some of the load-bearing walls, you can replace them with columns and beams and still get that visually open area.
Finish your attic or basement
This is a classic for a reason. Finishing your attic or your basement is a great option for all families with growing kids who want a separate space. The attic that’s finished can be easily turned into a bedroom, study area or a family entertainment room. On the other hand, a finished basement is perfect for home gyms, dens or extra bedrooms for students who require extra privacy. Fleming Construction does this type of work all the time. You can learn more here.
Build a second storey
If you know you need more space than just a small powder room or an extra bedroom, you’ll need to consider expanding your home upwards. Investing in practical second storey additions is the most cost-effective way to expand your home and add space to your house. You’ll end up almost doubling your living space, adding square meters to your property and even boosting your resale value in case you ever consider selling. If you have enough money for this investment, make sure to go for it!
Repurpose rooms
If the layout of your home doesn’t match your family dynamic, it’s time to repurpose some rooms. If you always eat at your kitchen island instead of your dining room, feel free to turn it into an office, game room or an additional bedroom. A bathroom that’s too small can be turned into a walk-in closet while unused playrooms can be turned into larger laundry spaces or something other that you really need.
Add some practical storage
Practical storage can significantly open up your space and give you some extra elbow-room to work with. So make sure to consider investing in built-in bookcases, double-duty furniture and other smart storage ideas. These are perfect for storing things like out-of-season clothing, toys and tools and keeping them from cluttering your space.
Maximize usable space
Every home, no matter how well designed, has a few of those dead spaces that just can’t be utilized. Locate those areas in your home and tackle them during your remodel. For instance, the space underneath the stairs can be turned into a closet, bookcase or even a small space for your kids or pets. Large landings and large spaces in hallways can be turned into practical seating areas. Use up all your vertical space by creating floor-to-ceiling shelving. If you keep an open mind, these unused nooks and crannies can be turned in to super practical spaces.
If you renovate your home with these ideas in mind, you’ll fall in love with your remodeled home all over again. There’s no need to move if you plan well and remodel smart!