When your current home no longer meets your needs — whether it’s due to limited space, outdated design, or changing family dynamics — you’re faced with an important decision: Should you remodel your existing layout or add more square footage?
At Hardline Design and Construction, we help homeowners throughout the Portland area navigate this exact question. Both room additions and full home remodels can dramatically improve your space — but choosing the right path depends on your goals, budget, and long-term plans.
Here’s a breakdown of each option to help you decide which one makes the most sense for your home.
What Is a Full Home Remodel?
A full remodel involves reconfiguring and renovating your existing interior space — without necessarily changing the footprint of your home. It can include:
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Kitchen and bathroom overhauls
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New flooring, lighting, and finishes throughout
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Wall removal or reconfiguration of rooms
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Improved storage and built-ins
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Upgraded electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
Best For:
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Homes with outdated layouts or finishes
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Improving functionality without expanding the structure
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Increasing efficiency or resale value
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Projects with moderate-to-large budgets but limited lot space
Pros:
✅ Maximizes what you already have
✅ Less invasive than a major structural addition
✅ Potentially faster permitting and completion
✅ Can modernize your home without needing more land
Cons:
❌ Limited by existing square footage
❌ May not solve space needs for growing families
❌ Can be challenging if layout changes require major structural work
What Is a Room Addition?
A room addition involves physically expanding your home’s footprint. This could be a single-room bump-out, a second-story build, or even a detached structure like an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit).
Common types of additions include:
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Primary suite additions
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Family rooms or sunrooms
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Home offices or flex spaces
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In-law suites or guest quarters
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Garage conversions or detached ADUs
Best For:
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Families needing more living space
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Homeowners with available yard space
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Long-term living solutions (multi-gen, WFH, etc.)
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Adding resale value in high-demand neighborhoods
Pros:
✅ Adds square footage and function
✅ Custom-built to your exact needs
✅ Increases home value significantly
✅ Ideal for long-term investment or aging in place
Cons:
❌ Higher cost than a remodel
❌ Requires more permitting and inspections
❌ Longer timeline and potential disruption
❌ Needs adequate lot size and zoning approval
Key Factors to Consider
1. Your Space Needs
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If you’re simply looking for a better kitchen layout or updated finishes, a remodel may be enough.
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If you’re cramped for space and can’t make it work with your current square footage, an addition is likely necessary.
2. Your Budget
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Remodels are generally more cost-effective per square foot.
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Additions cost more due to foundation work, roofing, and new infrastructure — but they also deliver more space and resale value.
3. Your Lot and Local Zoning
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Not all homes have room to expand. We’ll help you determine what’s possible based on your lot size and local building codes.
4. Your Long-Term Plans
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Planning to stay in your home long-term? Additions may be worth the higher investment.
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Selling in the next few years? A well-executed remodel can increase appeal and value without the cost of expanding.
Not Sure Which Option Is Right for You? We Can Help.
At Hardline Design and Construction, we take the time to understand your goals, your home, and your budget before making any recommendations. Whether you decide to remodel, build out, or both — we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish with transparency, skill, and craftsmanship.
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
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Honest advice from experienced pros
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Thoughtful design tailored to your lifestyle
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Full-service project management from permits to final walk-through
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Clear communication and dependable timelines
Let’s Build the Home That Works for You
Whether you need better flow, more space, or a modern refresh, Hardline Design and Construction is here to help you make the right decision — and bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out whether a remodel, addition, or both is right for your home.