This article offers the reader useful information about extending the home.

Sooner or later, your growing family will require extra living space, as your needs increase, not to mention all the stuff we tend to accumulate. Once you decide to add some living space, there are numerous ways you can do that, which are outlined below.

Traditional Bricks & Mortar Extension

Why not add a two-storey extension to the side of the house? Use the same materials and the extra structure will blend into the house. You will need to have a set of plans drawn up and they must be approved by local state officials, which is across the board in most countries. Choose one of the Cyprus home addition contractors to oversee the entire project and you can rest assured that all will be taken care of. If you want to work with a contractor closer to your location, all it takes is a Google search to find one.

Stand-Alone Module Unit

This has several advantages over a bricks-and-mortar extension. You are away from the house, which adds a touch of seclusion and independence, perfect for your parents coming to stay, or to be used as a home office. There are companies that make units to order; all you need is a concrete base and the unit can be delivered and connected to the utilities.

Loft Conversion

This would be the cost-effective way to increase your living space, as the structure is already present. Making the best use of available space is a smart thing to do and a local builder can manage such a project. You won’t need planning permission, as you are not extending the property line. The design would include a set of steps that can be dropped down to allow access, plus you should install a couple of skylights. The builder can usually work to a budget, making sure that you can afford the project, plus you can expect a huge rise in value when the project is complete.

Blend With The Property

Regardless of the type of extension, it should blend with the home and look like it belongs. The builder would be able to design an extension that looks in keeping with the current look. He can show you photos of previous projects, which might help find the best combination.

Think About Your Lifestyle

When designing your living space, you should analyse your lifestyle and take that into consideration. If you are planning to stay in the home for the rest of your life, design accordingly, even an extension serves specific functions and your design should be based around these uses. If, for example, you think you will need more living space in a couple of years, add a floor to this extension, or make provision to build up at a later date.

Composite Materials

These are normally high-insulation materials that require no maintenance. Ask the builder about materials that he would recommend and take your time choosing.

The key to a successful extension project lies in your choice of builder; choose a contractor with lots of extension experience and have an open mind regarding design. It is always a good idea to talk to several local builders and compare their quotes and designs; ask questions and get a feel for each contractor, which should help you make the right decision.

It makes perfect sense to extend if you love your local community, why relocate when the kids love their school and you get on well with all the neighbours? If the property is large enough, you could add a stand-alone structure which could be a home office or workshop. The options are indeed many when it comes to adding living space to your home.