Trying to estimate just how pricey to build out on our house
Hi,
Apologies in advance for this naive question--I know there are lots of issues with foundation, contractors, permits, etc. Taken at first glance, I'm guessing my wish is too complicated and cost prohibitive, but I'm wondering if others have successfully done similar projects. Looking for words of wisdom...
I'd love to extend our kitchen. I'm trying to figure out how much we could do and how much this would cost. It would require knocking out about eight feet of an exterior wall and building an approximately four-foot-wide floor, etc.
Has anyone done a similar project?
If so, what was the cost? Have you gotten a contractor to put in estimates for different parts of the project--so maybe we could possibly save a little money by doing parts of it ourselves?
Do you have recommendations for contractors, or anyone experienced in construction?
We do have an architect in the family to do drawings for permits...
Our kitchen is split off from our breakfast room and living room--making it a small dark corridor. It's just annoying since we spend so much time in there...these 1920's kitchens were all about trying to impress husbands and guests by keeping all the work and dirty dishes a secret. We're more open. Guests/partners are welcome to see the dirty dishes and hard work:)
Thanks!
Parent Replies
Removing an exterior wall is exponentially more costly than moving interior walls. Moving an exterior wall to gain only four more feet of space does not seem cost effective. Assuming the the yard is big enough with sufficient setbacks, why not consider an entire room addition. Since you have a professional in the family, why not let that person make several preliminary sketches. then approach your city building department to learn what is involved, whether zoning permits, and certainly building permits. With that "feasibility" study in hand you can approach architects and builders for cost estimates, and building plans. I did something similar for a new garage studio, and it worked out find. Prepare to do your home work. Good luck.