Bigger House, Lower Cost: Adding Square Footage Without Adding Financial Stress
Lynae Malchus
Building without wasting space

When you're planning to build your dream home, it's natural to want as much space as possible to accommodate your family's lifestyle. But building a new home involves significant financial considerations, and the last thing you need is unnecessary financial stress. That's why understanding how to maximize square footage while keeping costs manageable is essential. Fortunately, there are smart ways to achieve more space without dramatically increasing your budget.


One of the most effective strategies is utilizing bonus rooms above garages or within attic trusses. These areas leverage the existing footprint of your home , helping you avoid extra expenses associated with foundation work and roof extensions. By building thoughtfully, you can provide more space for your family without overstretching your finances.

Why Bonus Rooms Are an Ideal Solution

Bonus rooms above garages or within attic trusses make sense because they:

  • Eliminate additional foundation expenses
  • Use your existing roof structure efficiently
  • Require fewer exterior materials
  • Minimize land excavation and disruption

These versatile spaces can comfortably serve as guest rooms, offices, playrooms, or additional storage, making your home feel spacious and practical without costly additions.

an excavator digging a basement for a client

Basements and Second Stories: Worth the Investment?

Basements and second-story additions can certainly provide substantial extra space, but they often involve higher upfront costs. Basements require excavation, waterproofing, and concrete work, while second stories bring structural and framing complexities. While these options might be the right fit for some families, they typically come at a higher cost than integrating bonus spaces into your original home design.

Maximize Space with Multi-Use Rooms

Another excellent approach to affordable space is designing rooms that serve multiple functions. Imagine a guest room that doubles as a home office, complete with a Murphy bed and built-in desk. Or picture a dining area that can also function as a homework or project space. By cleverly integrating multi-purpose rooms, your home becomes both practical and budget-friendly.

A home with a simple rectangular shape, lower cost without lowering the beauty of a custom home

Design Smart to Save More

Here are additional practical ways to maximize your home's space without inflating your budget:

  • Choose simple designs: Rectangular or square layouts are cost-effective, easy to construct, and help control costs.
  • Centralize plumbing and utilities: Grouping bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms together reduces the expense of plumbing and HVAC.
  • Adopt open-concept layouts: These designs make homes feel larger, minimize extra walls, and provide flexibility.
  • Plan intentionally for multi-use rooms: Rooms with dual purposes reduce overall space requirements without sacrificing comfort.
  • Limit exterior wall surface: Fewer exterior walls mean savings in insulation, siding, framing, and maintenance.
  • Simplify rooflines: Complex roof designs increase labor and materials costs; simple roofs save money upfront and over time.
A cow by the Beaver River with an ag field and mountain in the background

Building Smart in Southern Utah

Southern Utah presents unique opportunities and challenges when building a home. While land costs may be lower and conditions favorable, remote locations can introduce unexpected expenses like utilities and accessibility costs. Working with a local builder familiar with the region's nuances can ensure you get the most value for your investment.
The cheapest way to add square footage is to keep your design simple, make thoughtful use of existing structural spaces, and focus on multi-use areas that genuinely enhance your lifestyle. If you're building in Southern Utah, partnering with a local builder who understands regional conditions and costs will help you maximize your home's value without unnecessary financial stress.
Ready to Build Your Ideal Home?
At Agenda Design+Build in Milford, Utah, we understand the realities families face when planning a new home. Our goal is to help you design and build a beautiful, spacious, and practical home without the unnecessary financial burden. To discuss bonus rooms, multi-use spaces, and other affordable design solutions tailored to your family's needs, call Lynae at 801-592-6785 for your free consultation today.

Blue Tape Walkthrough, What to Expect

By Lynae Malchus • October 15, 2025
The Blue Tape Walkthrough: What to Expect and How to Make the Most of It Building a home is a thrilling journey filled with excitement and anticipation. As your new home nears completion, there's a crucial step you'll experience—the "Blue Tape Walkthrough." If you've never done one before or just need a refresher, this guide explains exactly what you can expect and how to confidently navigate this important milestone. What Exactly is a Blue Tape Walkthrough? The Blue Tape Walkthrough, also known as the "punch list walkthrough," is your opportunity to inspect your nearly finished home closely and identify any issues or imperfections. You'll literally use blue painter's tape to mark areas needing attention, hence the name. Why It's Important This walkthrough ensures that the builder completes any necessary final touches before you move in, helping your home feel truly finished and high-quality. Who Will Be There? Typically, you'll walk through your home with your builder, construction manager, or project lead. Their role is to assist you, answer questions, and note your concerns. What Should You Bring? Blue painter's tape (usually provided by the builder, but bring extra just in case) A notebook or your phone for notes and pictures Flashlight to clearly inspect darker areas like closets and corners What to Look For During the Walkthrough Here's a practical checklist to guide you: 1. Walls and Ceilings: Look closely for uneven paint, drips, or spots needing touch-ups. Check for drywall imperfections, cracks, or dents. 2. Flooring: Inspect carpets for proper installation, wrinkles, or stains. Look at wood or laminate floors for scratches, chips, or uneven boards. Examine tile for consistent grout lines, cracks, or chipped edges. 3. Cabinetry and Hardware: Ensure cabinets open and close smoothly, hinges are aligned, and knobs or handles are secure. 4. Doors and Windows: Check that all doors close and latch smoothly, fit properly, and aren't scratched or warped. Inspect windows for ease of operation, secure seals, and clear glass without scratches or damage. 5. Plumbing Fixtures: Test faucets, toilets, tubs, and showers for leaks, water pressure, proper drainage, and secure installation. 6. Electrical: Verify that switches, outlets, and fixtures work correctly. Confirm placement and functionality of all lights. 7. HVAC System: Check thermostats, vents, and air conditioning or heating units for proper operation. 8. Appliances : Make sure all appliances function correctly and don't have cosmetic damage. How the Builder Should Respond A reputable builder welcomes your feedback during this walkthrough. They should: Encourage you to be thorough and attentive. Take clear notes and set timelines for addressing each item. Answer questions clearly and provide reassurance. After the Walkthrough Your builder will use the notes and taped items to create a punch list, clearly outlining tasks to complete before your final acceptance of the home. Ensure you have a copy of this list and schedule a final follow-up walkthrough to confirm all fixes. Final Thoughts The Blue Tape Walkthrough is your chance to ensure your new home meets your expectations and standards. Don’t rush—take your time, ask questions, and thoroughly inspect your home. With the right preparation and partnership with your builder, you'll move into a home you're genuinely proud of. Planning to build your dream home in Southern Utah? At Agenda Design+Build , we guide you through each step of the process, ensuring quality and satisfaction every step of the way. For more information, call Lynae at 801-592-6785.
Suburban house with a contemporary garage, blue roof, and lights on; wet street, dusk.

Where to Spend Your Money: Which Part of My Home Provides the Most ROI

By Lynae Malchus • August 15, 2025
Discover where to spend your money for the highest return on investment in your home. Learn top ROI projects from kitchens to curb appeal with Agenda Design+Build.