Thinking of that extra space? or maybe just an entertainment area?

 

Follow these tips before you start the addition.

Wish list:

Start with a wild idea, of what you want the final project to look like.  Write down your ideas.  Once you’ve made the list, rank the improvements in order of priority. Knowing the end result will help the contractor plan accordingly for items such as wiring, plumbing, and location.

Respecting the rules:

Specially the DMV area is tough on approving permits.  All areas have legal restrictions of what can be built on the property. Most cities have setback restrictions that govern how close a structure can be built to property lines, height restrictions, building area ratios, design covenants, and historic-district preservation ordinances.

Plan Positively:

When designing your new space, be open to new possibilities. For example, in a new bathroom be open to moving your vanity to a new location — not just its previous location. Being open to change allows you to use your new space to the best of its ability.

Attractive Angles:

An angled arrangement offers opportunities to add interesting exterior elements. Position a breakfast room at an angle to help break up a rectangular facade

Consider Material Matters:

A perfect siding match can help make a new addition look like it’s been there all along. But such cloning of original surfaces isn’t always possible or even desirable. Choosing materials of the same vintage and tonal range but with slightly different textures, for example, creates a pleasing harmony that respects the old while setting off the new.

Review roofline:

Mimicking the style and pitch, or angle, of a building’s original roofline helps an addition fit in with the original structure, whether you’re building up or adding an entryway.

Detail Deftly:

Repetition of architectural features is key to a well-designed addition. Otherwise unnoticeable elements can clash, if they’re of two completely different materials or design styles. Carefully consider all building elements on the original structure, including windows, trim, doors, gutters, lighting, and hardware. If the house features double-hung windows, for instance, don’t install swing-out casements in the addition.

Stay in Scale:

You don’t want your new master suite to look like the addition that ate the house. Nor do you want to add a mudroom so small that it looks more like a tool shed than an entrance. Keep things in proportion.

We know that sometimes as things are building, you may have a change of plans.  We work with you!

We are confident that our designs will fit to your wants and needs, call us today for a free estimate.

 

We are general contractors that serve Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC.

 

Licensed and insured!