How to Create Extra Space in Your Home without Moving

During the recession, many home owners were forced to put plans to move on hold. Although the financial situation is slowly improving, the housing market remains unstable. In some areas house prices are plummeting, while in London and the South East prices remain out of reach for most of us. With salaries frozen, mortgage offers few and far between and hefty stamp duty fees, many of us are choosing to stay put.

Not being in a position to move up the property ladder is creating space issues for many home owners. There are endless reasons why people may require an extra room; a new baby on the way, children getting too old to share, a new business venture which will require you to work from home or a spare room for guests. Whatever the reason, as space becomes more of a premium, increasing numbers of us are seeking innovative ways to improve and enhance the space we already have.

Garden homes

These can be constructed in the grounds of your home to create an office, granny flat, kid’s playhouse or a space for summer entertaining. Thanks to modern materials and advanced technologies, these structures are far superior to previous garden outbuildings and many are eco-friendly.

Loft conversions

A loft conversion is ideal for those who want to avoid taking up space outside with a garden room. Many of us have large loft spaces that are used for little more than a dumping ground for excess clutter. These dark spaces can be transformed into light, bright and airy rooms which can be used for a master bedroom, an office, a children’s play room or even a gym.

Open plan living

Most older style properties have walls between the kitchen, living and dining room. Removing these walls will instantly create the illusion of space and leave you with a fabulous open plan area for eating and entertaining.

Creating an extra room

Since period properties often contain larger than average rooms, a simple solution is to divide one large room into two smaller ones. Building a wall is the most obvious solution, but you could also opt for a sliding door. If budget is a concern then a room divider or even something as simple as curtains could have the desired effect.

It need not be a disaster if you can’t afford to move out of a house you have outgrown. There are many ways to create additional space, without having to obtain planning permission for a costly extension. From a bespoke loft conversion, to a small garden office, there is something suitable for properties of all sizes and a range of budgets.

Not only will an extra room give you much needed space, it will also add value to your property and cost far less to install than it would to move.