Large Scale Home Addition Ideas for Seattle Homes

Whether you are interested in adding an extra story to your house, looking to increase the size of your kitchen, or hoping to turn that screened-in porch into an Airbnb rental, there are many large-scale home addition ideas, especially for Seattle homes. A home renovation that adds significant square footage to your house can make it easier to host family members, increase space for your kids, and may even provide extra income. From expanding a single room to creating accessory dwelling units (ADU), here are a few large-scale home addition ideas to consider for your Seattle home. 

Mother-in-Law Suite 

According to the AARP, nearly a quarter of baby boomers anticipate their parents or in-laws moving in with them at some point. It’s economical and convenient to have aging family members under the same roof. However, both parties often need some degree of independence to coexist. A Mother-in-Law suite where your family members have their own space within your home can be a great solution. 

There are several ways to take this addition from a dream to reality. Often, garages and porches can be enclosed to create a bigger space within your home. Building up on top of garages or elsewhere within the house is also a great solution. Combining two bedrooms into one larger living space is also an option. If you’re interested in adding a Mother-in-Law suite to your home, our team at Harjo Construction can help you create a unit that meets your specific needs. 

Income Suite 

Long and short-term home rentals are growing in popularity in Seattle, especially after The City of Seattle removed regulatory barriers and made it easier for homeowners to add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). This renovation project is a great way to maximize your space and generate additional income. 

There are many benefits to adding an ADU to your property. For homeowners whose children are grown and have moved away, or those who want to get more creative with the room they already have, an income suite is a great solution. Long-term income suites usually include a kitchen, bathroom and a sleeping area. Short-term (or AirBNB-type) rentals generally include a bathroom and sleeping area. Either will add value to your home and pay off in the long run! For example, one client built an ADU to rent out, and once the ADU was built, he decided to rent out the main house to Airbnb users instead and live out of the smaller dwelling. He says it’s been quite the payoff! 

Adding a Second Story 

A second-story addition is a great option if you need additional space beyond an extra bedroom. Adding a new story to your house can allow growing families space to lounge or entertain or create a dedicated space for a beloved hobby, such as painting or yoga. These remodeling projects also provide the opportunity to add outdoor living space, such as a patio or deck. 

Where should I build an addition to my home? 

If you’re hoping to make an addition to your house but aren’t sure if it will work with your home design, there are many ways to make them work. A few large-scale home addition ideas include: 

• Above the Garage: If your home has an extended garage area, building an addition on top of the garage can be a great place to expand your living space. 
• Build Up: If you want to add more space to your home and the building codes permit, building up by adding a second story can be a great option. 
• Bump-Out Addition at the Back: If adding space within your home’s current boundaries won’t work, bumping out your home by expanding towards the rear is another potential alternative. 
• Decks and Exterior Expansions: For someone looking for more outdoor living space, adding a deck or patio to your home renovation project can often be achieved. These spaces are ideal for summer gatherings, dining alfresco, and sipping Washington state wines with friends—all while enjoying the great outdoors. 

When you add to your house, you’re investing in your home’s value and the amount of space your family has to enjoy. At Harjo Construction, we’ll work with you to find the best home addition idea for your home and family. Learn more about our services or to get in touch with one of our construction experts today!