Up to 85% of homes in the United States were built before 1980 and now need updating. Home improvements can come in many forms. Maybe you want to add a new home addition, such as an in-law suite. Many homes are transitioning into multi-generational households to make room for extended families. However, making your home multi-generational takes more than just the idea. It takes the understanding and planning that only design-build remodeling contractors can give.
You may wonder, “Are there any home addition contractors near me?” How do you get started? You can certainly search using terms such as “home addition contractors near me” to find one. Ultimately, a top design-build remodeling contractor will be able to answer all of your questions and take you through a step-by-step plan to create a comfortable in-law suite with all the necessary amenities.
Define Your Priorities
After finding “home addition contractors near me,” it’s time to think about how you want to define home addition priorities. There is no strict protocol for building an in-law suite other than the understanding that it is considered an additional private living area within a home. Experts recommend that in-law suites have a door separating them from the rest of your home and a full, private bathroom. If possible, it should also have a kitchen and separate entrance for long-term living situations. There are also local zoning laws that will apply, and a design-build remodeling company will be well-versed in them.
Create or Find Appropriate Space
“Home addition contractors near me” will assist you in finding the perfect amount of space around your home for an in-law suite, or they can create it for you. Perhaps you could repurpose existing rooms or rearrange your floorplan. The following are great areas that help fit a suite into your current square footage:
- Garages
- Porches
- Basements
- Combing two rooms
- Underused first-floor living spaces
- Dining rooms
- Formal living rooms
If there is not enough room in the footprint of your home, consider creating a new master suite for yourself and upgrade or remodel your original suite for your grandparents or parents. Do you have a third bay in your garage? You could easily have the space converted into an apartment-type living space that encourages autonomy and privacy.
All Generations Require Privacy
Not having enough privacy is a major pitfall when it comes to a home addition renovation. All generations should have privacy, since moving into a suite can be a big and difficult transition. Also consider all accessibility issues, add a private entrance, and try keeping the in-law suite on the bottom floor. First-floor housing is ideal for aging relatives.
Decide What Needs To Be Included
Once you and your home addition contractor have decided on space, you need to focus on what should be included in that space. Adequate storage is a must in the bedroom and sitting area. Stackable washer-dryers are a great option in a bathroom closet.
Adding a kitchen, kitchenette, or wet bar can take an in-law suite to another level. However, speak to your design-build remodeling team at length to ensure your home addition adheres to local zoning code issues. Also, keep the basic design of a new in-law suite versatile, livable, attractive, and as spacious as possible for future occupants.
Incorporate Trendy and Universal Design Principles
Your whole home should incorporate universal design principles that do not skimp on luxury. These types of designs can be incorporated using high-end materials. Top considerations include ideal reachability and height concepts, no-slip flooring, and wider doorways.
Have separate phone lines, internet connections, cable jacks, and even a stereo system unique to a new in-law suite installed. Many technologically advanced options can be controlled via Smart apps for easy access too. Of course, separate air-conditioning and heat controls are necessary and plenty of beautiful, ambient lighting. Schedule an appointment to discuss all of your options after searching for “home addition contractors near me.”
