If you’ve started planning a renovation, “how much will this cost?” is almost certainly the first question on your mind…
When Perth families start thinking about renovating, the conversation often begins with finishes — new tiles, fresh paint colours, upgraded tapware or modern styling. While cosmetic updates can improve the look and feel of a home, the renovations that deliver the greatest long-term value are usually the ones that transform how a home functions.
Today, more homeowners across Perth are investing in big-picture renovations that create additional space, improve liveability, and allow families to stay in the suburbs and homes they already love. From second storey additions to major extensions and character home renovations, these projects are about future-proofing the home for the way families live now — and into the future.
At Summit Renovations we work with Perth homeowners to deliver tailored renovation solutions that maximise both lifestyle and property value.
Why Perth Families Are Renovating Instead of Relocating
With Perth property prices continuing to rise and established suburbs remaining in high demand, many families are finding that renovating makes more financial and practical sense than moving.
Rather than sacrificing location, school zones, block size, or community connections, homeowners are choosing to reimagine their existing home. The focus is shifting away from quick cosmetic upgrades and towards renovations that unlock long-term functionality and value.
Some of the most popular renovation goals include:
- Creating more space for growing families
- Adding separate living zones
- Improving indoor-outdoor flow
- Modernising outdated layouts
- Accommodating multi-generational living
- Preserving the charm of character homes while improving functionality
- Increasing resale appeal in competitive Perth suburbs
Second Storey Additions: Adding Space Without Losing Backyard
One of the biggest renovation trends across Perth is the rise of second storey additions.
For homeowners on smaller lots or in established suburbs where land is limited, building upwards can be one of the most effective ways to gain additional living space while retaining outdoor areas.
A second storey renovation can completely transform a home by creating:
- Additional bedrooms
- Parents’ retreats
- Home offices
- Secondary living spaces
- Guest accommodation
- Separate children’s zones
Importantly, second storey additions often allow families to double their usable living space without sacrificing the backyard, pool area, or entertaining space that makes the property enjoyable.
These can be built in two ways, Modular (where a home is built offsite and transported via truck and installed), or built traditionally onsite. Both offering the same finish and quality.
Second storey additions ate growing in popularity across all Perth suburbs, where homeowners want to maximise their location while adapting the home to suit a growing family.

Ground Floor Extensions That Improve Everyday Living
Ground floor extensions remain one of the most valuable ways to improve functionality, especially for families wanting larger communal spaces.
Many older Perth homes were designed with smaller kitchens, segmented living areas, and layouts that no longer suit modern lifestyles. Extending the ground floor can create:
- Open-plan kitchen and living zones
- Larger dining and entertaining areas
- Additional bedrooms
- Guest suites
- Activity rooms
- Better connection to outdoor spaces
The most successful extensions are those that feel integrated with the original home, creating a seamless transition between existing and new spaces.

Character Renovations: Blending Old and New
Perth homeowners continue to place strong value on character homes, particularly in established suburbs filled with Federation, Californian Bungalow, and mid-century properties.
Rather than demolishing these homes, many families are choosing character renovations that retain heritage charm while introducing modern functionality.
This often includes:
- Preserving original facades and period features
- Opening up internal layouts
- Improving natural light
- Modernising kitchens and bathrooms
- Extending the rear of the home
- Adding upper floors that complement the existing streetscape
A well-designed character renovation can significantly increase both liveability and market appeal while maintaining the unique identity of the home.

The Renovations That Add the Most Long-Term Value
While every home and family is different, the renovations that typically deliver the strongest long-term value are those that improve:
- Functional living space
- Bedroom and bathroom count
- Layout and flow
- Energy efficiency
- Flexibility for changing lifestyles
- Quality of construction and design
Buyers increasingly look for homes that feel spacious, adaptable, and move-in ready. Renovations that address these priorities often outperform purely cosmetic updates when it comes to resale appeal.
Get in touch with our designers to understand what’s possible today.
