Remodeling Guides
Architecture
Micro Additions: When You Just Want a Little More Room
Bump-outs give you more space where you need it in kitchen, family room, bath and more
Sometimes your existing house is just a little too small for what you want to do there. If only there were just another foot or two in that one room. You've talked it over, but you're hesitant to add on as the cost and inconvenience is too great, and you really don't want an "addition" per se. What can you do?
Try a cantilevered micro-addition. Essentially, this is a small "bump-out" located where you need the space and where the existing structure allows. In some ways, it's like a bay window that spans wall to wall and floor to ceiling. And because the addition is cantilevered from the existing structure, it needs no foundation work, saving time and money — and possibly also a mature tree nearby.
From kitchens to bathrooms to family rooms, these kinds of additions can be used just about for anything where just a little more space is needed.
Try a cantilevered micro-addition. Essentially, this is a small "bump-out" located where you need the space and where the existing structure allows. In some ways, it's like a bay window that spans wall to wall and floor to ceiling. And because the addition is cantilevered from the existing structure, it needs no foundation work, saving time and money — and possibly also a mature tree nearby.
From kitchens to bathrooms to family rooms, these kinds of additions can be used just about for anything where just a little more space is needed.
A micro-addition can house an entertainment center, such as this one inside a 30-inch by 11-foot bump-out. The room feels much larger and functions much better with all the electronics, speakers, television and cabinetry out of the way.
A bump-out can be used to increase the size of a master bath — so now you have room for that spa tub you’ve always wanted. The important consideration is keeping water pipes out of the cold.
Using a cantilevered micro-addition is a great way to add just right amount of space to a kitchen. In this project, a 5’ x 25’ bump-out provided the room needed for this kitchen to have an island.
Talk to a kitchen remodeler about expanding your space
Talk to a kitchen remodeler about expanding your space
By cantilevering this kitchen addition, the need for a foundation was eliminated. So the earth and tree roots weren't disturbed, saving the mature oak tree directly outside the kitchen window.
Tips for Adding Bump-Out to Your House
Though each condition will be unique and you should consult with a qualified professional before undertaking any project such as this, here are some general tips and tricks for building a bump-out.
1. The simplest approach is to “sister” new floor joists along side the existing joists. This can be done with minimal damage to the room below.
2. Depending on the roof condition and how the bump-out is designed, you could end up with a lower ceiling in the added area. This could be a good thing, especially if the added area will be used for a featured element like a spa tub.
3. In this generalized sketch, the existing roof slope is continued to the new outside wall. This doesn’t have to be the case. There as many ways to design this roof extension as there are types of roofs.
4. Using a cantilevered micro-addition to expand a kitchen or bathroom can be a great way to get that extra space to have that spa tub. However, make sure that no water pipes or plumbing lines are installed in an unheated space.
5. A cantilevered micro-addition on an existing second floor also can be used to add space to the room below. Rather than supporting such a niche from below, it can be hung from above.
Again, and this can’t be stressed too much, make sure to engage a qualified professional before undertaking any project like this, and make sure you adhere to local codes, ordinances and regulations.
Next: Bay Window Expands a Small Kitchen
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Though each condition will be unique and you should consult with a qualified professional before undertaking any project such as this, here are some general tips and tricks for building a bump-out.
1. The simplest approach is to “sister” new floor joists along side the existing joists. This can be done with minimal damage to the room below.
2. Depending on the roof condition and how the bump-out is designed, you could end up with a lower ceiling in the added area. This could be a good thing, especially if the added area will be used for a featured element like a spa tub.
3. In this generalized sketch, the existing roof slope is continued to the new outside wall. This doesn’t have to be the case. There as many ways to design this roof extension as there are types of roofs.
4. Using a cantilevered micro-addition to expand a kitchen or bathroom can be a great way to get that extra space to have that spa tub. However, make sure that no water pipes or plumbing lines are installed in an unheated space.
5. A cantilevered micro-addition on an existing second floor also can be used to add space to the room below. Rather than supporting such a niche from below, it can be hung from above.
Again, and this can’t be stressed too much, make sure to engage a qualified professional before undertaking any project like this, and make sure you adhere to local codes, ordinances and regulations.
Next: Bay Window Expands a Small Kitchen
More ideas for creating extra living space
Garage Conversions
Converting Attics and Basements
Stunning Garage Makeover in Bordeaux
When adding a bump-out, just remember to insulate a floor exposed to the elements.