Is Your Primary Bedroom Too Small? What to Consider Before Expanding

Your master bedroom may have met your needs when you first moved in, but now it’s feeling cramped and inadequate. If you’re looking to renovate or expand your primary bedroom, it’s important to first address some common pain points, such as cramped furniture layout, inadequate closet space, no room for seating, and an outdated en suite bathroom.

When you partner with a Boston contractor to expand your bedroom, you increase your square footage and comfort without having to pick up and move to another house.  

1. Decide What You Want From the Extra Space

First, think about what you want to achieve with the expansion. What’s important to you?

  • Larger sleeping area
  • Walk-in closet
  • En suite bathroom
  • Sitting/reading area
  • More storage
  • More sources of natural light
  • Fireplace or built-ins
  • Separate dressing area

Come up with a needs vs. wants list before planning your addition.

2. Consider Layout, Not Just the Square Footage

Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean more functional. You need to think smart when it comes to the layout of your new bedroom. That means you have to take into account:

  • Bed/furniture placement
  • Traffic flow
  • Location of bathroom and closet
  • Door placement
  • Windows
  • Plumbing considerations (if adding bathroom)

3. Think About Storage Early

Everyone has stuff they need to store and hide. From clothes to mementoes, think about where you will put it all:

  • Walk-in closet
  • Built-in cabinets
  • Shelving
  • Window seat with storage
  • Customized closet system

Remember: planning ahead for storage during the design phase will eliminate the need for costly and bulky furniture later.

4. Let in the Light

Now is a good time to consider window placement and how you will maximize natural light. That could mean anything from incorporating larger windows to installing bay windows with seating. Don’t forget to consider privacy expectations, and you may want to pair natural light sources with recessed lights, sconces and bedside lighting.

5. Integrate the Addition

The addition or renovated space should look like a natural extension of your home rather than an afterthought. Not only should the exterior match the original house, the interior should blend in naturally as well. Make sure to follow this aesthetic through all components:

  • Flooring
  • Trim
  • Doors
  • Windows
  • Architectural details

6. Choose Materials For Looks and Function

From flooring and cabinetry to fixtures and trim, select materials that look good and perform well – now and in the future. It’s easy to choose things because they look fancy or beautiful. Try to select materials for how they will function when put to the test.

7. Think Ahead

When planning your renovation, think about how long you intend to stay in the home. If you plan to age in place, you will need to think five, 10 or more years ahead. That may entail:

  • Wider pathways
  • Easier accessibility
  • First-floor bedroom  
  • Changing storage needs
  • Handrails

It’s important to design your new space for your future lifestyle, not just today’s needs.

8. Work With an Experienced Contractor

Because a bedroom addition affects more than just bedroom décor, it’s important to hire a Boston contractor who can take everything into account:

  • Structural considerations
  • Electrical
  • HVAC
  • Plumbing
  • Permits/code requirements

A consultation in the beginning can ensure you know what’s practical and feasible before you get too attached to a particular layout.

Contact AD Construction

Let our team help you plan and build a master bedroom addition that balances space, comfort and functionality. Call us today at 877-345-BUILD to get started.

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