Expanding Your Horizon: A Guide to Home Additions/ADU’s in Gig Harbor and the South Sound
As families grow and lifestyle needs change, many Gig Harbor and South Sound homeowners face a difficult choice: Should we move, or should we improve? Given the beauty of our local landscape and the community we love, more residents are choosing to expand their current footprint.
Adding onto your home is a major investment that requires more than just a hammer and nails—it requires a strategic design-build approach. Here is what you need to know about planning a home addition in Pierce County in 2026.
Popular Addition Projects for the Pacific Northwest
In our region, "space" is about more than just square footage; it’s about functionality. We are currently seeing high demand for:
Primary Suite Extensions: Creating a secluded wing with a walk-in closet and spa-like bath.
Multi-Generational Living: Building "ADUs" (Accessory Dwelling Units) or attached mother-in-law suites for aging parents or adult children.
Second-Story Pop-Tops: Perfect for homes on smaller lots that want to capture better views of the Sound or Mt. Rainier.
Indoor-Outdoor Great Rooms: Expanding the kitchen into a covered outdoor living area with heaters and folding glass walls.
The Logistics: Navigating Pierce County Permitting
One of the biggest hurdles for any addition is the paperwork. Between Pierce County zoning laws, shoreline management acts, and local building codes, the permitting process can be a minefield.
When you work with a Design-Build contractor, we handle the technical heavy lifting:
Feasibility Study: Can your current foundation and septic/sewer handle the expansion?
Permit Management: We submit the drawings and coordinate with local officials so you don't have to.
Site Integration: We ensure the new addition doesn't look like an "afterthought," matching your existing siding, roofline, and architectural style perfectly.
Is a Home Addition Worth the Investment?
Beyond the immediate benefit of more elbow room, additions offer a high Return on Investment (ROI) in the Gig Harbor real estate market.
Value Increase: Adding a bedroom or bathroom consistently ranks as one of the best ways to boost resale value.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to the closing costs, moving fees, and current mortgage rates associated with buying a new home, expanding your current residence is often the smarter financial move.
Why "Design-Build" is Essential for Large Projects
For a kitchen remodel, you might get away with a simple plan. For an addition, you need an integrated team. Because Choice Carpentry manages both the design and the construction, we can spot structural issues on paper before they become expensive problems in the field. Our lead designer ensures the flow of the "new" house feels natural and intentional.
Dream Bigger with Choice Carpentry
Whether you’re dreaming of a sun-drenched home office or a sprawling new wing, our award-winning team has the expertise to make it happen. We specialize in custom home additions that respect the original character of your home while elevating its modern function.