Home renovations

How to Create More Space at Your Place

By  
Justin Andrews
Updated:  
January 15, 2025

Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Second-storey additions provide extra living space without sacrificing yard area.
  • Garage conversions are versatile and cost-effective ways to create functional rooms.
  • Ground-floor extensions allow you to expand existing spaces while enhancing property value.
  • Raising the house creates new usable areas below while improving aesthetics.
  • Embrace open-plan living by removing unnecessary walls for a more spacious feel.
  • Outdoor extensions like decks enhance usable space and improve lifestyle quality.
  • Attic conversions can add valuable square footage for various uses.
  • Smart storage solutions help maximise existing spaces effectively.

Introduction

Homeowners often seek creative ways to expand their living areas without moving. Renovations provide an excellent opportunity to enhance both functionality and comfort in your home. This guide outlines effective strategies to create more space through thoughtful renovations and extension.

Interior staircase with wooden steps leading downward, featuring white walls, a wooden handrail, and recessed lighting. The upper level has hardwood flooring in a darker shade than the stairs.
Fagan Road - a lift and renovation project by Abode Construction.

Second-Storey Additions

Adding a second storey is one of the most effective ways to increase your home's living space without sacrificing outdoor areas.

  • Maximise Floor Space: A second-storey addition allows for new bedrooms, bathrooms, or even a family room while keeping your yard intact.
  • Custom Design: Collaborate with professionals to ensure that the new upper level complements the existing structure, enhancing curb appeal.
  • Open Up the Lower Level: With the addition of a second storey, you may have the option to remove walls on the ground floor, creating an open-plan living environment that feels more spacious.

If you want to explore this option further, visit our Home Extensions page.

Garage Conversions

Transforming your garage into a functional living space is another popular option.

  • Versatile Use: A garage can be converted into an extra bedroom, home office, or playroom, depending on your family's needs.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: This renovation typically requires less investment than building an extension and can significantly increase your home's value.
  • Maintain Parking Options: If parking is still needed, design the conversion so it can be reverted back to a garage if necessary.

We can help you with this! For more information on how we can assist with garage conversions and other renovations, visit our Home Renovations page.

Ground-Floor Extensions

Ground-floor extensions are an excellent way to add more living space without going up.

  • Expand Living Areas: You can extend your kitchen, dining room, or living room to create larger, more functional spaces that cater to your lifestyle.
  • Integrate Indoor and Outdoor Spaces: Ground-floor extensions can seamlessly connect with outdoor areas like patios or gardens, enhancing your overall living experience.
  • Increase Property Value: A well-planned extension not only provides additional space but also increases the overall value of your home.

For more details on our extension services, please visit our Home Extensions page.

Raising the House

Raising your house is an effective way to create additional living space underneath while improving resilience in certain areas.

  • Create New Living Areas Below: By raising the house, you can utilise the newly available space for garages, storage, or even additional living areas such as a guest suite or home office.
  • Enhance Outdoor Living: Raising the house can also allow for better outdoor spaces such as decks or patios that are elevated and more usable.
  • Improved Aesthetics and Value: A raised home can enhance curb appeal and potentially increase property value by creating a unique architectural feature.

For more information on raising houses as part of our extension services, visit our Home Extensions page.

Open-Plan Living Spaces

Renovating to create open-plan living areas can significantly enhance the perception of space in your home.

  • Remove Non-Load-Bearing Walls: By knocking down walls that separate rooms, you can create a more fluid and spacious environment.
  • Zoning with Furniture: Use furniture placement and area rugs to define different spaces within the open layout without creating barriers.

If you're interested in transforming your home into an open-plan layout, consider visiting our Home Renovations page.

Outdoor Extensions

Extending your home into outdoor areas can provide additional usable space.

  • Decks and Patios: Adding a deck or patio creates an outdoor living area perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
  • Covered Outdoor Spaces: A roof over your outdoor area allows for year-round use while adding aesthetic value to your property.

For more information about extensions, please check our Home Extensions page.

Attic Conversions

If you have an underutilised attic, consider converting it into livable space.

  • Create New Rooms: Attics can be transformed into guest rooms, home offices, or hobby spaces, providing valuable additional square footage.
  • Ensure Accessibility: Install proper stairs and ensure adequate insulation and ventilation for comfort.

For more information on how we can assist with attic conversions and other renovations, visit our Home Renovations page.

Smart Storage Solutions

Incorporating smart storage solutions can help you maximise existing space without major renovations.

  • Built-In Cabinets: Custom cabinetry can offer storage solutions that blend seamlessly with your home’s decor.
  • Under-Stair Storage: Use the area under stairs for built-in drawers or shelves that keep items organised and out of sight.

Conclusion

Creating more space in your home through renovations or extension is not only feasible but also rewarding. By implementing strategies such as second-storey additions, garage conversions under renovations, ground-floor extensions as part of extension services, raising the house as part of extension services, and open-plan designs, you can transform your living environment into a more spacious haven for you and your family.

If you’re ready to start your home renovation or home extension project, book a consultation with our expert team at Abode Construction. Simply fill out our contact form, and let us help turn your vision into reality!

home renovation
home extensions
Justin Andrews
Justin Andrews is the founder of Abode Construction and boasts over 30 years of experience in the industry - backed with the experience of building over 100 homes across Brisbane.
Houzz Icon
Houzz
Star IconStar IconStar IconStar IconStar Icon
Based On 5 Reviews
Google Icon
Google
Star IconStar IconStar IconStar IconStar Icon
Based On 22 Reviews
Facebook Icon
Facebook
Star IconStar IconStar IconStar IconStar Icon
Based On 22 Reviews
Abode Construction

157 Abbotsford Road
Albion 4066
Brisbane

Copyright 2025 Abode ConstructionABCCMB QLDMaster Builders
Book Your 15 Minute 'Forever Home' Consultation
Book Now