“What is a home addition?” If you’ve been living in your home for a decade or more, you’ve likely thought about making some updates. Maybe your family has grown. Maybe you’re working from home more and need a dedicated office. Or perhaps you simply want to increase your home’s value before selling. For homeowners in Arlington, VA and throughout the DMV area, a well-planned home addition can be the perfect solution.

But where do you start? Understanding what a home addition is and how it fits into your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals is the first step. This guide breaks it all down—giving you the practical insight you need to make an informed decision.

What is a Home Addition?

A home addition is a construction project that adds new living space to your existing home. This could mean building out (expanding horizontally), building up (adding a second story), or converting existing space into livable square footage.

Unlike remodeling, which improves existing spaces, an addition physically increases the size of your home. Whether it’s a new master suite, an expanded kitchen, or a full second floor, home additions give homeowners more room to live, work, and grow—without moving.

In areas like Arlington, VA where lot sizes are tight and property values are high, an addition is often more practical and cost-effective than relocating.

When thinking about a home addition project, you should always check with your contractor to make sure that your vision is in line with local regulations. Arlington’s residential building permit guidelines can give you a quick overview. 

Our guide to home addition project costs provides a deeper dive into what factors can influence the final price.

6 Common Home Addition Types

1. Room Addition

This is a single room added to your home—like a bedroom, office, or sunroom. It’s a straightforward way to increase square footage without drastically altering the structure of your home. 

Looking for inspiration? Houz has some finished room addition projects that you can use to start planning your own addition. 

2. Bump-Out Addition

A bump-out is a small-scale extension of an existing room. Think of expanding your kitchen by a few feet to add an island or more cabinets. These are often more affordable and less disruptive than full additions.

Not familiar with bump out additions? Here’s a quick bump out addition guide that gives pros and cons of this type of home addition. 

3. Second Story Addition

Adding an entire level to your home is a major project but can double your living space. It’s ideal for homeowners who want to stay in their neighborhood but need significantly more room. This is especially popular in Arlington’s older neighborhoods, where expanding outward isn’t always possible.

4. Garage Conversion

If your garage is underutilized, converting it into a living space—like a guest suite or home gym—can be a smart move. It’s often one of the most cost-effective ways to add usable square footage.

5. In-Law Suite or ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)

These self-contained living spaces are perfect for multigenerational families or for generating rental income. Arlington’s zoning laws may affect what’s possible, but recent updates have made ADUs more accessible than ever.

6. Basement or Attic Conversion

Finishing a basement or attic can be less expensive than a full addition while still dramatically improving functionality. These spaces are great for media rooms, guest bedrooms, or additional storage.

When is a Home Addition Right for You?

A home addition is a major investment, so it’s important to understand when it makes sense. Here are a few signs that an addition may be the right move:

• Your home no longer fits your needs. Whether your family is growing or you’re spending more time at home, space needs evolve.
• You love your neighborhood. Moving isn’t always desirable—especially in well-loved, centrally located areas like Arlington.
• You want to increase your home’s value. Strategic additions—like master suites or upgraded kitchens—can offer strong ROI, especially in competitive real estate markets.
• You need more space but don’t want to leave. If you’ve already made minor upgrades and still need more room, an addition may be the best option.

Of course, budget plays a big role. Homeowners in Arlington and the DMV area should plan for costs that reflect the region’s premium construction standards. That said, a well-managed addition can be worth every dollar—especially when it’s built to last.

If you think that you’re ready to get started, you might find it helpful to review our comprehensive home addition planning guide.

Dzala is Here to Help

Planning a home addition can feel overwhelming. From zoning laws and permits to design and construction, there are a lot of moving parts. That’s why working with an experienced general contractor in Arlington, VA is so important.

At Dzala General Contractor, we specialize in home additions that combine quality craftsmanship with modern design. Our team is committed to making the process seamless, transparent, and stress-free. Whether you’re expanding your home for comfort or long-term value, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re curious about the types of home additions we build, you can view our page that details our second-story addition services. Have questions or ready to get started? Contact us to learn how our residential construction services can bring your vision to life.