When you think of a guest house, you likely think of a small home to the side of a large estate that’s used for guests, live-in employees or as a pool house. Guest homes haven’t been extremely popular with homes that aren’t estates or within the last few decades in general, but whether it's the increased time spent at home in the last few months or the increasing flexibility of the workplace, it appears they're making a comeback. At Pella of Harrisburg we are working with our trade partners more and more to renovate, build and transform these unique spaces to be creative havens specifically designed for their homeowners.
These bonus spaces are no longer solely for the specific purpose of guests or employees. Many of our homeowners are finding creative ways to utilize the additional space in their homes, especially around the Philadelphia and Harrisburg area.
So, what are homeowners turning these spaces into?
We’ve seen homeowners transform their space in a number of ways. From a mini-home where they live temporarily while renovating the main house to a home office, to a man cave or she shed. Some homeowners are even renovating the space for their college kids to use for online learning, while others are utilizing theirs for extra income by listing their spaces on Airbnb. Traditional pool houses and guest houses are still around, though we’re seeing them a little less in favor of alternative uses.
Renovations, upgrades, and new projects can be costly, homeowners are finding that the initial investment pays off in the long run. As we spend more time at home, these projects provide extra space for spreading out, the potential for extra rental income, and help increase the value of your home, should you ever decide to sell.
In addition, some homeowners are able to mitigate the initial cost a bit by utilizing structures already on their property. From outbuildings and lodges to small barns and sheds, with the existing structure, a skilled contractor and energy-efficient windows and doors, the possibilities are endless.
While these reimagined guest houses may not be for everyone, if you’re finding yourself needing extra space at home right now, or have an older building or shed that can be put to better use, it may be time to explore your options. Get in touch and we'll be happy to work with you and our trade partners to create your new favorite spot at home.