If you love your existing home, your property and your neighborhood but simply need more space, a room addition makes perfect sense.

The most common room additions are family rooms, kitchen/family room combinations, and bedroom/bathroom suites. “As a remodeling contractor, my most important concern is making the addition complement the existing architecture,” says Tim Englert. “You want the roof line to match; you want the woodwork to match. You want the room to look like it has been there all along.”

In recent years, there’s been a strong trend toward large, dramatic windows and skylights. “You want to pay attention to your orientation and sun exposures,” Englert adds. “Most people want to be sure they are getting the same amount, if not more, natural light coming into the house after the addition is in place.”