Moving house isn’t always a choice, sometimes it’s a necessity. However, if you’re completely in love with your current home, there might be a few things you can do to increase space.
Walls
If it’s the ground floor of your home where space is limited because of many separate rooms – living room, dining room, kitchen etc. – consider opening up your living space by moving or removing walls to create a light, airy and open living space for your growing family to enjoy.
Doors
If you don’t really have the time, energy or budget to knock down walls and reconfigure the layout of your home, then removing doors could have a similar effect. Doors are just another division between rooms so by removing them, you’re opening up the space in the same way as removing a wall, albeit, in a less dramatic fashion.
When opening up your living space by removing inner doors, it’s a good idea to make sure you have matching floors throughout your home in order to create a natural flow.
Alternatively, if you decide to opt for the open-plan living space, then consider also installing folding French doors. This will help extend your home into your garden, giving the illusion of even more space.
Loft
If you’re using your loft space just like everyone else – as a space to keep all the junk you have no use for but don’t want to get rid of – then consider having a clear out and having your loft converted. For some loft conversions you won’t even need to apply for planning permission, which means it’s much cheaper than you might first think to create a useable space (office, playroom, bedroom) and add to the future selling value of your home.
Extension
Despite being more expensive than a loft conversion, not everyone is lucky enough to have loft space available to them. If this is the case, suddenly an extension to the back or side of your home an appealing option, especially if you currently have a lot of wasted space available to you.
Basement
Just like loft space, a basement is typically a whole floor of wasted space so why not make the most of it? A light-well into your basement will provide natural light, while effective light fittings will brighten the space effectively. With an appropriate amount of lighting, the room is your oyster with options of a man-cave, games room, office or even a bedroom. Just like with a loft conversion, you’re unlikely to need planning permission for a basement conversion, but you should always check building and fire regulations to ensure your conversion is legal.
All five of these ideas not only mean that you’ll be able to enjoy your current home for longer, they’ll also save you money in the long-run too, with many of these options adding to the overall value of your home.