When your home no longer fits your lifestyle, a well-designed addition can bring space, function, and flow without the need to move. As a Vancouver home addition builder, Smithwood Builders specializes in building high-quality home additions across Vancouver and the surrounding area, crafted to blend seamlessly with your existing architecture and elevate how you live. Whether you’re planning a full second storey, a sun-filled family room, or a private suite for multigenerational living, we build with care, intention, and enduring craftsmanship.
Types of Home Additions in Vancouver
Purpose-built expansions tailored to your home, your life, and your neighbourhood.
Second Storey Additions
Perfect for homeowners who want to expand upward without losing outdoor space. A second storey can include additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or a private primary suite, while preserving your yard and increasing your property value.
Rear Additions
Rear-facing expansions are ideal for creating larger kitchens, open-concept living areas, or family rooms. These additions improve interior flow and can help connect indoor spaces with outdoor patios or gardens.
Side Additions
A side addition adds square footage while keeping the front appearance of your home intact. This type of addition is excellent for expanding a main-floor living area, adding a new bathroom, or enlarging an existing room.
Primary Bedroom Suites
A custom primary suite creates a luxurious, private space with an ensuite bathroom, walk-in closet, and generous layout. These additions can be part of a second storey or a main-level extension, offering comfort and value.
Secondary Suites and In-Law Suites
These fully self-contained spaces include a separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living area. They are perfect for multigenerational living or long-term rental and are designed to meet Vancouver’s zoning and building regulations.
Rental Units (Short & Long Term)
Self-contained suites with private entrances, kitchens, and baths are ideal for rentals or multigenerational living. Built to Vancouver’s standards, they provide income potential and long-term flexibility.
Kitchen Additions
Kitchen additions provide extra room for cooking, entertaining, and family time. These extensions often feature custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and seamless transitions to dining or outdoor areas.
Home Office Additions
A dedicated home office enhances productivity and work-life balance. We design professional, comfortable spaces with built-in storage, natural light, and sound insulation.
Family Rooms and Great Rooms
These inviting spaces are designed for everyday living and entertaining. Whether you're hosting guests or relaxing with family, a great room adds versatility, openness, and connection.
Mudrooms and Utility Spaces
Especially useful in Vancouver’s rainy climate, these practical additions keep your home clean and organized. We create functional entryways with built-in storage, benches, and laundry solutions.
Media Rooms
Create a dedicated space for movies, gaming, or sports. With soundproofing, built-ins, and modern tech, a media room adds comfort, entertainment, and value to your Vancouver home.
Covered Outdoor Rooms
Take advantage of Vancouver’s mild coastal climate with a covered patio or enclosed outdoor living space. We build year-round usable areas complete with lighting, heating, and durable finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions: Home Additions in Vancouver
How much does a home addition cost in Vancouver?
Home additions in Vancouver generally start around $250,000, with larger or more complex projects ranging higher. We provide a detailed project proposal based on your goals, site conditions, and level of finish to ensure full transparency and realistic budgeting.
Do I need permits for a home addition?
Yes. Most home additions require permits and must comply with Vancouver’s zoning bylaws and the BC Building Code. Our team handles all permitting and coordination with the city, so everything is approved and built properly.
How long does a home addition take to complete?
Most additions take 4 to 8 months depending on the scope of work, structural complexity, and weather conditions. We create a clear project schedule and keep you informed from start to finish.
Will the addition match the style of my home?
Absolutely. Our goal is to make your addition feel like it was always part of the original home. We carefully match exterior finishes, architectural details, and interior design to create a cohesive result in partnership with your architect or designer.
Can I stay in my home during construction?
In many cases, yes. We plan carefully to minimize disruption and maintain safe living conditions. For larger or more invasive projects, we’ll walk you through options for temporary accommodations if needed.
Do you work with architects and designers?
Yes. We collaborate regularly with architects, designers, and engineers. If you already have drawings, we’re happy to work with your team. If not, we can recommend trusted professionals.
Is a home addition a good investment in Vancouver?
Yes. Given Vancouver’s real estate market and limited availability of new lots, adding space to your existing home is often more cost-effective than moving. A well-executed addition can significantly increase both your living space and property value.
How do I get started?
Book a complimentary Discovery Call. We’ll discuss your needs, evaluate your property, and outline the next steps for your project. From meeting with your architect or interior designer to final construction, we’re with you every step of the way.
Our Service Area
Smithwood Builders provides custom home building and renovation services in Vancouver and the surrounding areas.
We proudly serve the following regions and their neighborhoods, delivering award-winning, beautifully crafted spaces that elevate everyday living for local homeowners.
Vancouver
East Vancouver
Shaughnessy
Renfrew Heights
West Point Grey
Dunbar-Southlands
Kerrisdale
Mt. Pleasant
Richmond
British Properties
West Vancouver
North Vancouver
Delta
Burnaby
Port Moody
Dundarave
Jim, Nick and the team did an excellent job with our substantial reno (more of a new build). Their craftsmanship, attention to detail and responsiveness was much appreciated. We are very happy with the end result! We really liked Jim's down to earth approach and always felt we could communicate with him. They were ethical and if something wasn't right, they would fix it. I would definitely recommend them.
Andrew Rigg
Homeowner
A sample of our work
Rich Artisan
Winner of the 2021 Georgie Awards for Best Single Family Kitchen over $150,000!