Expanding Your Melbourne Home: Choosing the Right Extension for Your Needs

Looking to expand your Melbourne home? A home extension is one of the most effective ways to add space, improve functionality, and increase property value — without giving up the neighbourhood you love. But deciding on the right extension can feel overwhelming. Should you build up, build out, or extend into the backyard? The answer depends on your site, your lifestyle, and your budget.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the most common types of extensions, the pros and cons of each, budgeting and approvals, and practical tips from architects who specialise in home additions.

Why Consider a Home Extension?

For many families, a much-loved home eventually becomes too small. Kids need their own bedrooms, you want a home office, or perhaps your kitchen no longer works for how you live. While moving is one option, it isn’t always practical or desirable — especially if you’re attached to your location, your neighbours, or your local schools.

A home extension allows you to stay put while making your home more liveable and future-ready. Better yet, a well-designed extension can add significant value to your property — making it an investment in both lifestyle and equity.

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👉 Click HERE to download our FREE Home Extension Checklist!

Types of Home Extensions

Single-Storey Extensions

Perfect for adding a new living room, larger kitchen, or extra bedroom without major structural changes.

Double-Storey Extensions

An ideal option if you want to add multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, or a home office while keeping your backyard space intact.

Rear Extensions

Designed to maximise backyard views and bring light into your main living areas. These are especially popular in Melbourne terrace homes and period houses where the block runs deep.

Pros and Cons

Single-Storey Extensions
✅ Less disruptive during construction
✅ Lower cost compared to second-storey builds
❌ Limited space gain if your block is small

Double-Storey Extensions
✅ Maximises square metres without sacrificing garden space
✅ Creates clear separation between living and sleeping areas
❌ More expensive, requires stronger structural support, and council approvals can be complex

Rear Extensions
✅ Improve indoor–outdoor flow and natural light
✅ Great for open-plan kitchens and dining spaces
❌ May reduce backyard size and affect outdoor entertaining areas

Budget Considerations

Construction Costs

• Base Build Costs: Renovations are often more expensive per square metre than new builds due to demolition, structural integration, and existing site conditions.
  

• Extensions: Ground-floor extensions are generally less costly than second-storey additions, which require extra support and often re-roofing.
  

• Finishes & Fixtures: Premium choices like stone benchtops, custom joinery, or designer tapware can double material costs.

Professional Fees

• Architect/Designer: Typically 5–10% of construction costs for full-service design.
  

• Engineers/Surveyors: Structural engineer, land surveyor, and other consultants may add $5k–$20k.
  

• Permits & Council Fees: Ranging from $2k–$10k depending on scope.

Hidden Costs

• Site Conditions: Asbestos, old wiring, or unstable foundations can quickly add tens of thousands.
  

• Temporary Living Costs: Renting during construction or paying for storage.
  

• Contingency Fund: Always allow 10–15% for unforeseen issues.

Timeline Considerations

Pre-Construction

• Design Development: 1–3 months
  

• Council & Permits: 3–6 months
  

• Tender & Builder Engagement: 4–8 weeks
  

Construction

• Kitchen/bathroom updates: 6–12 weeks
  

• Ground-floor extension: 6–12 months
  

• Second-storey addition: 8–14 months
  

Post-Construction

• Defects liability: 3–12 months
  

• Landscaping/interior fitout: +1–3 months

Council Approvals

Securing approvals is a crucial step that homeowners often underestimate. Without them, projects risk delays, redesigns, or even stop-work orders.

• Planning Permit: Required if your extension impacts streetscape, setbacks, heritage, or overlays. Timeline: 3–6 months.
  

• Building Permit: Needed for almost all structural works. Issued by a building surveyor. Timeline: 2–6 weeks.
  

• Other Approvals: Heritage, environmental, or asset protection permits depending on your site.

 Tip: Engage an architect early — they can streamline both planning and building approvals, saving you months of delay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

❌ Assuming you don’t need permits — even internal structural changes often require them.
❌ Underestimating time — approvals alone can add months.
❌ Submitting poor documentation — unclear drawings result in requests for more information.
❌ Ignoring neighbour relationships — objections can cause costly delays.

Tips for Homeowners

✔ Set a realistic budget and stick to it.
✔ Decide on non-negotiables versus “nice-to-haves.”
✔ Choose an experienced builder familiar with Melbourne renovations.
✔ Expect delays — build flexibility into your timeline.
✔ Schedule regular site meetings to stay aligned with your team.
✔ Don’t cut corners on approvals — it’s not worth the risk.
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Expanding your Melbourne home is a major investment, but with the right planning, team, and approvals, it can completely transform how you live. Whether you choose a single-storey, double-storey, or rear extension, the key to success is clear goals, realistic budgeting, and expert guidance.

At Formery, our team specialises in architect home additions that balance beauty, functionality, and compliance.

📥 Download our FREE Home Extension Checklist HERE

🎯 Book a consultation today — let’s design your perfect space together.