Instead of adding on, make better use of existing space

A family in Murray asked us to help design an addition to their house.

This couple likes to entertain, and their small kitchen/family room combination isn't large enough to accommodate their guests.

After reviewing the couple's project, we determined that they don't actually need to add on because they already have plenty of space in their adjoining living and dining rooms — they just haven't been using it.

Instead of adding on, all they needed to do was visually open and connect this space with their kitchen and family room.

We came up with a design that replaces the walls between the living room, dining room and family room with columns and beams. The design created a "great room" that allows guests to flow into the former living and dining areas while still maintaining contact with partygoers in the kitchen and former family room.

Working with the space this couple already has, rather than making an addition, will save the family about $50,000 in construction costs.

Not only did we save them construction costs, but we also saved them future property taxes. Remember, the bigger the house or the addition, the higher the taxes.

Don't get us wrong: We are certainly not against additions, but we want you to carefully analyze your current space before you expand.

Can the space you already have simply be reconfigured to meet your needs? Or, can you multitask some rooms in your home?

For example, dining rooms can also be used as libraries, home offices can function as guest rooms on occasion, and laundry rooms and mudrooms can be combined.

If you've considered these things and have decided that you still need to expand, remember that the best additions aren't necessarily the biggest, but the most functional, comfortable and interesting.

We subscribe to the formula promoted by architect and best-selling author Sarah Susanka: Reduce the size of your original construction project by 30 percent and spend the resulting savings on finer materials and more architectural detail.

Adding concrete footings and foundations and extending the roof are major cost factors in a home remodel.

If you can design your remodel without these items, you will go far to control the cost. This can be accomplished structurally in two ways: Your floor can be extended over your existing concrete foundation wall by cantilevering the floor joists.