Getting the most out of a one-room renovation
A growing family, overnight guests, work-at-home demands and lifestyle changes can make for cramped quarters in any home. If you’re not ready to move to a bigger house or take on a full-scale addition, carve out more space from your home’s current footprint. Renovating an unused area can add more living space now, provide flexibility for the future and increase your home’s value.
Whether you’re creating a kids’ playroom, extra bedroom or a new home office, here are some tips for getting the most out of a one-room renovation.
• Find extra space
Check out your space’s current configuration, whether its ceiling height can accommodate a bonus room. Lower walls and odd-shaped corners also might provide space to build in some shelving for items, such as books or toys.
• Lighting considerations
Natural light may be at a premium in the new room. With an extra space, you may be able to install windows at either side, depending on its ceiling height and location in the house. Consider supplementing natural light with recessed lighting that maximizes your available ceiling space. Task lighting also can help, while creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Entrances and exits
Whether you’re going up or down with a renovation, it will require using the stairs. This is a good time to make repairs or modifications to the current stairway to ensure safe and easy access. Also, be sure to check out your local building codes for the number of windows and fire exits that are required, and plan accordingly.
• Create bonus storage with cabinetry
Any renovation also offers the opportunity to squeeze in extra storage, and installing cabinetry is an easy way to do that. Manufacturers offer multiple options for cabinets with built-in storage features, from drawers with built-in organization dividers to cabinets with pull-down shelves that let you pack a lot of items into a small space. These will keep your newly renovated room looking clean, neat and inviting.
This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.