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Building Homes or Extensions/Extension to a 1926 Tudor home

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Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 12/12/2007


Question
I have quite a vague question.  I'm thinking of purchasing a lovely old tudor house which is quite small.  My partner and I would probably need to build an extension at some stage.  There's plenty of room to extend but I was wondering if there are any particular challenges to extending an old brick tudor?  And would the cost be prohibitively expensive?

Thanks!

Answer
Selena,

The cost to build is at least as high (in $/square foot) as the cost to buy.  If you are excited about the idea of designing a space that suits your particular lifestyle or tastes, then buying with the intent to expand may be the right way to go.  However, if you just need a bigger house, and like old tudors, you probably want to find a bigger house to buy.  Of course, if the location is spectacular and you can't find the right house on the right lot, it is easier to build the house that you want than to change the neighborhood around a "big enough" house!

Good luck,

Ted

Building Homes or Extensions

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Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC)

Expertise

I can answer questions about architectural design, how to work with a designer, and best construction practices for most trades. I specialize in cold-climate design (I'm in Minnesota), older home renovation, and energy-efficient/sustainable design.

Experience

As a Principal of Design45, I design and detail new homes and remodels. I am formally trained in architecture, but have also been a contractor and have experience with many trades. I strive to provide beautiful, durable, and efficient homes for clients and communities of all types and budgets.

Education/Credentials
Undergraduate work at Princeton University (Mathematics), Master's work at the University of Minnesota (Architecture)

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