Home extensions in Brisbane are on the rise on 2025 as many homeowners choose to expand their space rather than deal with the hassle of moving. Whether you’re looking to add a second floor or spread out on the ground level, the decision often boils down to your lifestyle, budget, and what suits your property best. With the love of outdoor living and the increasing popularity of open-plan spaces, the choice between extending upwards or outwards can significantly impact how you enjoy your home.
In this post, we’ll explore both options–vertical (upwards) or horizontal (outwards)– to help you weigh the benefits and considerations. With a clearer picture, you’ll be more equipped to choose one that adds the most value and functionality to your Brisbane home.
Extending Upwards: Adding a Second Floor
A vertical extension refers to adding a second floor which is an option for Brisbane homeowners if they want to keep their yard space intact. This is popular for those with limited land who want to maximise their property’s footprint without sacrificing outdoor areas like gardens, patios, or play spaces.
Pros of Extending Upwards
- Maximises land use. Building upwards allows you to retain your outdoor space, ideal for those who love Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle.
- Improved views. A second-floor addition can bring elevated views of the Brisbane River, the city skyline, or surrounding greenery, depending on where you’re located.
- Increased privacy. Having an upper floor can create separate spaces for bedrooms, work-from-home offices, or multigenerational living.
- Enhanced curb appeal. A well-designed second floor can add a modern look to your home and potentially increase its value.
Cons of Extending Upwards
- Higher costs. Adding a second floor often requires structural adjustments, like reinforcing the foundation and adding a staircase which can be costly.
- Longer project duration. Structural changes usually extend project timelines which means you might have to live in a construction zone or find alternative accommodation for much longer.
- Impact on layout. Staircases and room adjustments can affect the layout and flow of your home so extra design planning may be needed to make everything work smoothly.
Expanding Outwards: Adding More Space on the Ground Level
The second option for house extensions is a horizontal extension which entails extending your home’s footprint outward on the ground floor. This is common in suburbs with larger lot sizes as it makes it easier to expand without encroaching on neighbouring properties.
Pros of Expanding Outwards
- Lower structural requirements. Building outwards is typically simpler than adding a second floor since it doesn’t require extensive structural reinforcements.
- Easier access and flow. Staying on one level makes it easier to create open-plan designs that allow a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Ideal for open-plan living. Expanding outwards allows you to design spacious, open areas which is perfect if you love hosting gatherings or just want an airy feel to your home.
- Less disruption during construction. With work happening at ground level, you might find construction less disruptive to your daily life.
Cons of Expanding Outwards
- Reduced outdoor space. Building outwards takes up yard space which could limit your room for gardens, outdoor entertaining, or play areas for the children.
- Planning restrictions. Brisbane’s zoning laws may restrict how far you can expand including the setback and lot coverage rules.
- Site considerations. Expanding outwards may require some adjustments to drainage, changes to landscaping, and consideration of property boundaries, especially if your lot is uneven or has unique features.
Key Considerations When Planning to Extend Your Home
Local Regulations and Permits
Brisbane has specific building regulations that can impact your extension, like height restrictions, setbacks, and lot coverage limits. For both extension types, it’s best to check with the local council and understand permit requirements. If you’re in a flood-prone area, there might be additional requirements to follow.
Lifestyle and Future Plans
You should also think about how the space will be used now and in the future. If you have a growing family, a second floor might provide the needed separation and privacy. On the other hand, single-level living is ideal if you’re looking for easy access and an open flow. Horizontal extensions also provide greater accessibility for those who plan on extending their home for multigenerational living.
Budget and Timeline
Budget is a big factor in deciding which extension type is best. Vertical extensions tend to be more costly and time-intensive due to structural changes. On the other hand, horizontal extensions might be more budget-friendly and quicker to complete. Understanding house extension costs can provide valuable insight into planning for either option. But if you love outdoor spaces, take note that building outwards could reduce your yard space. Consider your priorities carefully so you can choose an option that aligns with your budget and also your values.
Conclusion
Whether you’re going up or out, both extension types offer unique benefits. The best choice depends on your property’s layout, budget, and what suits your lifestyle. Choosing between a vertical and horizontal extension depends on your space and needs. A vertical extension is ideal for retaining outdoor space and creating privacy, while a horizontal extension offers open-plan possibilities and simpler more affordable construction. With the right plan, your extension can transform your home into a more spacious, valuable, and functional space that meets your needs.
This is where choosing the right builder for your home extension becomes important. For high-quality results, you need a team that can deliver on your vision. Ready to bring your ideas to life? Connect with our team to arrange a free on-site consultation with our lead builder and engineer. We’ll discuss your ideas, share expert insights, and provide a complimentary project estimate and initial design concepts all provided 100% free and obligation free.
