Two-Story Home Additions

When you own premium real estate or want to add significant square footage, sometimes the best strategy is to build up—master suites are a popular addition choice. A two-story addition doesn't gobble up precious lawn space, and it can provide new treetop views. This new master bedroom feels airy and private at the same time, thanks to strategic placement of windows. The bed alcove translates into a staggered exterior wall, adding depth to the facade.

There are many benefits to second-story master suite additions, such as this one that features built-in storage and a media center, which occupy a half-wall that flanks the staircase to the main level of this house. Leaving the stairwell open gives the bedroom an expansive feeling and captures light from the courtyard windows behind it.

Victorian houses are known for their gorgeous architectural details. These homeowners took a contrasting approach to their existing brick home when they built this two-story addition with its fine details, slender columns, and double doors. The addition looks like a Victorian dollhouse.

Overlooking the great-room, this loft features a sitting area enhanced by a gas fireplace on one end and a large window with a view of the water on an adjacent wall. Wood beams play up the angles of the building's structure. The gas fireplace makes venting easy.

A new tower addition keeps with the character of the original home by including sand-color stucco, red-tile roofing, and tall grouped windows. Recessed entry alcoves and a slight decrease in size between the second and third levels keep the structure from overwhelming the rest of the building.