Want to make your Melbourne home bigger? Getting a new home extension could be your best move. Many people choose to extend their current homes instead of buying new ones, especially with Melbourne’s high property prices. Adding an extension helps you stay in your favourite neighbourhood while creating extra space.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about home extensions in Melbourne and how they can transform your property.
Why Consider a Home Extension?
Your family might be growing, or maybe you’ve started working from home. Perhaps you dream of a bigger kitchen to host family gatherings. Home extensions let you create space that matches your needs without moving houses. Plus, they often cost less than buying a bigger house in your area, which makes them a smart choice for many Melbourne families.
Popular Types of Home Extensions in Melbourne
Melbourne homeowners can choose from several types of professional home extensions Melbourne based on their needs and property layout. Each option brings unique benefits, whether you want to build out, up, or toward the back.
Ground Floor Extensions
Adding space on the ground floor makes sense when you want extra living areas or a new kitchen. These extensions usually connect smoothly with your current home and create a seamless flow throughout the house.
Second Storey Additions
Building upward saves your backyard space. This option works great if you have a small block of land and need extra bedrooms or a quiet retreat space.
Rear Extensions
Most Melbourne homeowners love rear extensions. These create open spaces that flow into the backyard, turning your home into an indoor-outdoor paradise with modern kitchen-living areas.
Looking at these options, think carefully about which type matches your lifestyle and property best. Each extension style can transform your home, but the right choice depends on your block size, budget, and living needs.
Planning Your Extension
Careful planning ensures a smooth home extension process. Knowing the rules, budgeting properly, and choosing reliable professionals are essential steps.
Council Rules
Each Melbourne council has its own rules about extensions. Height limits, distance from boundaries, and heritage rules vary depending on where you live. Talk to your local council first to understand what you can build.
Money Matters
Extension costs change based on size, type, and materials. Ground floor extensions usually cost between USD$2,000 and USD$3,000 for each square meter. Going up to a second floor costs more – about USD$3,000 to USD$4,500 per square meter. Set aside extra money for surprises like bad soil or outdated wiring.
Finding Good Help
Pick home extension builders and architects who know Melbourne’s building rules and weather patterns. Ask to see their previous work and talk to their past clients. Good professionals help with council paperwork and build extensions that match your home perfectly.
With a solid plan in place, you can avoid unexpected issues and keep your project on track. The right approach makes your home extension a rewarding investment.
Design Tips
Thoughtful design choices can make your home extension both beautiful and functional. A well-planned space improves comfort, style, and energy efficiency.
Making Old and New Work Together
Your extension should look good with your current home. Modern additions can look great next to older homes with the right design. Think about using materials and window styles that create a nice flow between the old and new parts.
Bringing in Light
Melbourne needs all the natural light it can get. Put in plenty of windows and think about adding skylights. Rooms facing north get the most sunlight. Good lighting makes spaces feel bigger and more welcoming.
Saving on Bills
Build smart for Melbourne’s weather. Good insulation keeps your home comfortable all year. Double-glazed windows keep heat in during winter and out during summer. Think about adding solar panels or water tanks while building to cut down on bills.
Smart design decisions add lasting value to your home. Blending aesthetics with practicality creates a space you’ll love for years to come.
Common Problems and Solutions
Home extensions can come with challenges, but proactive steps help you handle them smoothly. Addressing common concerns keeps your project stress-free and neighbour-friendly.
Living Through Building Work
Building work takes time and planning. Some families move out temporarily. Others block off the construction area. Make a timeline with your home extension builder but expect some delays from rain or late materials.
Looking After Your Garden
Building work can hurt gardens. Show builders which plants to protect and where trucks can drive. Move special plants if needed. Some people use this time to plan a new garden design.
Getting Along with Neighbors
Tell your neighbours about your plans early. Councils usually require this anyway. Talking openly prevents problems and keeps relationships friendly. Think about their privacy when planning windows and outdoor living spaces.
Simple solutions make a big difference during construction. With clear communication and proper planning, you can overcome potential setbacks and enjoy a successful outcome.
Conclusion
Home extensions give Melbourne homeowners exciting ways to create their perfect space. Good planning and the right professionals help make extension projects successful. These changes can transform your home and make it worth more. You get to stay in your neighborhood and gain the space you need. Take time to plan carefully and pick quality professionals to make your extension dreams come true.
