Beyond the Basics: Advanced Tips for Planning Your Home Extension

If you’re doing your due diligence for a home extension, renovation, kitchen makeover or a construction project of any scope, you can never be too prepared. 

Thorough research and planning are critical to ensuring your project runs smoothly and successfully. This is why the team of experts at West & Sons Construction are dedicated to bringing you all the top tips and expert advice to consider when planning an extension to your home. 

From understanding building regulations and permits to selecting the right materials and contractors, every meticulous detail counts. By being well-informed and thoroughly planning each step, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your extension project goes off without a hitch. West & Sons Construction will navigate the way to bring your vision to life. 

In our prior comprehensive guide on planning a building extension, we covered the essential steps to get your home extension project off the ground. Now, let’s dive into the details with some expert tips that you might not have thought of. 

1. Future-Proof Your Renovation Design

It’s no secret that home renovations are a significant investment of resources, so you need to ensure your plans consider what lies ahead for yourself and your family. Think ahead about how your requirements will change over time. Give thought to adaptable spaces that can become flexible to different uses as your family grows or your lifestyle changes. For example, a home office can double as a guest room or nursery. This is especially useful planning an extension to your home to maximise space. 

2. Accentuate Natural Light

With a plethora of benefits to enhance natural light in your home extension project, consider how to best exploit this free, natural resource. 

Natural light can stabilise mental health and help regulate your sleep, mood, and appetite. It can also stabilise your circadian rhythm, produce Vitamin D, and reduce stress. 

Not only does natural light increase physical and mental health there are a multitude of advantages for your home. Homes with abundant natural light have a higher resale value and are more appealing to prospective buyers. Natural light reduces electricity expenditure by reducing artificial lighting and heat output. 

Natural light transforms a space, making it appear larger and more inviting. Strategically plan windows, skylights or glass doors to flood extension to your home with light. Consider the orientation of your home to best take advantage of sunlight throughout the day. Natural light is a key consideration for any North Shore builder looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. West & Sons Construction will help plan an extension to your home to maximise natural light. 

3. Home Builds to Integrate Smart Home Technology

Builders in Auckland are increasingly integrating smart home technology into new builds, renovations, and home extensions to meet modern demands. West & Sons Construction is no exception. Enhancing convenience, security, entertainment and energy efficiency are the main attributes of smart home technology. From automated lighting, heating, security cameras and smart locks, West & Sons Construction stays ahead of the curve by incorporating the latest smart home technologies into our home extension projects.

4. Sustainable Building Materials and Practices

Opting for eco-friendly materials can be better for the environment and likely more durable and cost-effective. Reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metal are great options to consider for your home extension project. Plastering finishes can also assist in energy efficiency and long-term durability. Additionally, consider installing energy-efficient windows, insulation, and renewable energy sources such as solar panels. Masonry contractors such as our team at West & Sons Construction can provide advice on plastering and sustainable materials for your home extension project. Sustainable building practices not only benefit the environment but can also reduce your long-term energy costs. 

5. Plan for Storage in your Renovation 

It’s easy to overlook ample storage during the enthusiasm of designing new renovations. Keep your extension clutter free and functional with built in storage solutions. Consider using dead spaces as storage spaces, under stairs, attics, alcoves, or even as part of your furniture. This is particularly important in kitchen makeovers where space efficiency is paramount. West & Sons Construction will assist you to best utilise your storage space, while keeping budgets under control. 

6. Consider the Impact on Your Garden

Garden spaces can significantly alter your space after building a home extension. Before you start with building an extension to your home, plan how you will integrate the new structure in your outdoor space. Consider landscaping, outdoor lighting, and maintaining privacy. Our external plastering specialists can ensure exterior finishes of your extension blend seamlessly with your garden. West & Sons Construction are plastering experts with decades of experience and can assist you in planning and executing a garden-friendly extension.

7. Engage with Your Community

To maintain good relationships with your neighbours and to avoid potential disputes, we advise you to inform them about your plans. West & Sons Construction is a family run company who puts people at the heart and centre of what we do. We value community engagement and can help you navigate this aspect of your project.

8. Budget for the Unexpected

We recommend setting aside a contingency fund when budgeting for your construction project. Even with the best planning, unexpected unforeseen costs can arise. Home builders often recommend a contingency of at least 10% of your total budget. West & Sons Construction advises all our clients to budget for the unexpected.

9. Post-Construction Maintenance

Once your extension is complete, it is important to understand your ongoing maintenance obligations to keep your new build in the best possible condition for as long as possible. West & Sons Construction provides guidance on post-construction maintenance to ensure the longevity of your extension.

After carefully considering all of these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a home extension that not only meets your current needs but also stands the test of time. 

Planning an Extension to Your Home with West & Sons Construction 

At West & Sons Construction, Licensed Building Practitioners, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need plastering specialists, masonry contractors, or masonry repair, we’ve got you covered. We also specialise in home renovations, kitchen makeovers, and more. As a leading renovation company, home builder, and North Shore builder, West & Sons Construction ensures your project is handled with the utmost care and expertise. Contact us today to start planning an extension to your dream home. Building trust, one project at a time.