In a completely unscientific review of past and current projects, I find that five types of additions are requested more than all the others combined.  The reason may be that homeowners value these five additions the most or it could be that most homes lack or only have poor examples of these spaces. While I never try to predict real estate trends or future markets, it stands to reason that a home, which includes fine examples one or more of these additions, will retain a greater value.

1. Kitchen

One of the most basic spaces that every home requires, but more often than not is either poorly laid out, poorly proportioned, or undersized for modern lifestyles.  A kitchen addition allows for the maximization of light, views, a greater efficiency, and a layout that matches it’s owner’s lifestyle.

New Kitchen

New Kitchen

2. Family Room

The ultimate multipurpose space which may include game tables, television, fireplace, wet bar, etc., or simply a place to sit and chat.  This space is where family and friends gather to relax, have fun and enjoy each other’s company.

New Family Room

New Family Room

3. Master Bedroom Suite

The name speaks functionally for itself, but the space allows for unlimited design and layout possibilities.  The addition of a master suite can be a second floor bedroom that puts parents near small children or a first floor suite that is flexible no matter the age of parents or children.

New Master Bedroom

New Master Bedroom

4. Sun Room

We all need sun for our physical and mental health.  In the North, the best way to stay warm and enjoy a sunny winter’s day is to relax and read the paper while sitting in a Sun Room.  These rooms also come in all shapes and sizes, but the one thing they have in common is plenty of windows to let in light.  Radiant heated floors are a plus and a fireplace a wonderful luxury.

New Sun Room

New Sun Room

5. Porch

Of course I had to include a porch (or porches) since we at Crisp Architects love porches.  As I always say ‘there is no addition which has more bang for the buck than a porch’.  Every Spring I can’t wait to dust off the porch furniture and every Fall I sit on our porch until my lips turn blue.  There is truly no feeling that is closer to a daily vacation than sitting on a porch or any home which would not benefit from one or more.

New Screened Porch

New Screened Porch

Photos by Rob Karosis  Curated Brochure by Crisp Architects: Portfolio

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About the Author: James Crisp

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James M. Crisp has been an architect for well over 30 years. His architectural firm, Crisp Architects, designs projects throughout New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Massachusetts. In April of 2007, Taunton Press published 'On the Porch' by James M. Crisp and Sandra Mahoney.

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2 Comments

  1. 274D43B83Eca4E2E8E40E18343562562?S=54&R=G
    Elise Arndt July 18, 2014 at 2:43 pm

    We recently renovated our screen porch and doubled its size thanks, in part, to your inspirational photos. It truly sets our home apart for the rest. Our next project to add value to our home (not listed here) is our walk-up third floor. We’ve already installed beautiful egress dormers and plan to turn it into a guest suite with sitting area and kitchenette!

  2. Bb1B026367Df873C900Fbede3A580855?S=54&R=G
    Portella September 21, 2022 at 9:01 am

    Thank you for sharing! By the way, sunrooms are one of the most affordable room additions, which makes them the best option for people who want to make a house expansion with minimal costs.

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