A family recently moved into a new two-story home. The house initially appealed to them for its open floor plan and spacious backyard – plenty of room for the whole family. But after just a few months there, they’ve run into a problem. While the house felt big at first, they’re now finding it lacks enough storage space for all their possessions.
The kids’ ever-growing toys spill out from the closets and take over the living room. The dad’s tools and gadgets are crammed in the garage with barely room to park a car. And the mom’s impressive shoe collection has conquered the master bedroom closet. There just doesn’t seem to be enough room in the house for this busy family.
The parents have debated moving to a bigger home. But they don’t want to sacrifice the great location and yard they have. So they’ve been exploring adding amezzanine floor Newcastle from experts like AW Structures to get extra square footage for storage without the cost of buying a larger house. But they aren’t sure if this addition will really solve their problems or create new headaches.
What is a Mezzanine Floor?
A mezzanine floor is basically an extra level added in between an existing floor and ceiling. It’s typically used in commercial spaces like offices, retail stores, and warehouses to maximize space. But some homeowners install mezzanine floors in their houses too. A mezzanine can provide space for extra storage, a home office, play area, or whatever else a family needs more room for. Many people are drawn to mezzanines as a more affordable and less disruptive option compared to a full second story addition.
But are mezzanine floors all they’re cracked up to be? Here are some key pros and cons the Smiths are weighing:
Pros of Adding a Mezzanine
- Extra square footage for storing the family’s stuff or creating a new functional space.
- Costs significantly less than a full second story addition. Easier to finance than other major home expansions.
- Faster and less invasive to construct. Installation often takes just weeks.
- Flexible positioning options. Mezzanines can be added in many parts of the home that have high ceilings.
- Cool architectural element. They make a visual statement and add character.
- Resale value. Functional extra space appeals to future buyers.
- Customizable design. Mix of open and enclosed areas to suit your needs.
- Cons to Keep in Mind
Limits options for rearranging the ground floor. Structural supports eat up existing space below.
- Low ceiling height. Most mezzanine floors don’t allow full height rooms above.
- Steep, tricky stairs. Accessing the upper area usually requires a difficult ladder-style staircase.
- Can feel cramped or cave-like. Poorly designed mezzanines create claustrophobic spaces.
- Disrupts home flow. The extra level carves up open floor plans.
- Noise and privacy issues. Adds acoustic challenges and less separation.
- Need for guardrails and building permits. Safety rules and regulations to navigate.
- Limits future changes. Once built, mezzanines are not so easy to remove or relocate.
Key Questions to Ask About Your Goals
So should the Smiths go for it or nix the idea? The pros and cons point to how crucial it is for families to consider what they want to achieve with a mezzanine addition. Here are some key questions the Smiths should ask themselves:
- Do we mainly need just more general storage space? Or a whole new room for a specific purpose?
- Will a mezzanine deliver the right type of space? Or are we better served by finishing the basement or garage?
- Where could we position it while minimizing impact on existing rooms?
- How important is having open sight lines throughout the house?
- Can we afford potential downsides like trickier furniture placement and chopped up views?
- Will we want to change how we use space again in the future?
By identifying their must-have priorities and being realistic about what a mezzanine can and can’t provide, the Smiths will have the insights they need to make the right choice.
Alternatives to Consider
A mezzanine addition isn’t the only option when extra room is needed. The Smiths should also explore:
- Converting the garage into storage, workshop or hobby space
- Finishing off all or part of the basement
- Building an outbuilding/shed in backyard for storage
- Strategic shelving, organization systems around existing house
- Renting offsite storage unit for seasonal, occasional use items
- Decluttering unnecessary possessions to make better use of current space
Conclusion
At the end of the day, there are compelling pros but also notable cons to tackling a mezzanine addition. This type of project takes vision to maximize the benefits and minimize the drawbacks. With smart planning and design, you can likely create the ideal mezzanine space that provides their family extra room to thrive.
