Second Storey Extensions & Renovations.
Second Storey Extensions
Designing and executing a second-story addition involves numerous factors to consider. These include the current structure, intended use of the added space, block shape, potential views, solar orientation, home style, and regulatory requirements.
Second stories can take various forms, such as standalone structures, rooms supported on top of existing ones, or a combination. Certain older home styles with tall ceilings, like Californian Bungalows or Victorian-era houses, offer opportunities for seamless integration of new spaces.
Key elements of effective design encompass strategically positioned access points, framing of views, and optimization of outdoor garden areas.
Cost
• Typically a second-storey extension is slightly less expensive to build than an on-ground extension. The main reason is because of reduced foundations. This may provide a 10-30% saving overall.
Ballarat - Second Storey Extension.
Second Storey Renovations
Renovations to a double-storey home may entail repairs and upgrades of the exterior walls and roof, or in the interior opening up. This may be for connection between rooms, creating vertical space or a feature stair.
Existing homes that already have a second storey often need a refresh. Benefits include much better amenities, views, cross-ventilation, natural light, control of solar access, aesthetics, and improving existing details. This might mean consolidating the existing style, refreshing the look and feel, or even converting to something more contemporary.
Today people care more about light, the flow of space, how privacy is maintained, and how shared spaces feel open and connected. These changes may be brought about when moving into a new house, when a family is growing when finances have changed, or simply when living values have evolved.
Barkly Square Project, Ballarat Regional Multi-Cultural Council - Two-storey renovation.
Cost
• A second-storey renovation costs slightly more than a single-storey renovation, yet much less than an extension. Where an existing average-size single-storey house renovation may cost $150,000 to $300,000, a double-storey house renovation may cost 50% more – i.e. $250,000 to $450,000 (+ typical architectural fees 10-15%). [current 2/2024]