Building Out vs Building Up: A Santa Barbara Home Addition Guide
Thinking about expanding your home? Whether you need extra bedrooms, a larger kitchen, or more space for entertaining, most homeowners come down to two choices: build out or build up. Each has its own benefits and trade-offs, and what works best for one home might not make sense for another.
Here at Kellow Construction, we’ve worked with countless Santa Barbara homeowners weighing these same options. Let’s walk through the key differences and help you get a better sense of what’s right for your home and your budget.
What Does It Mean to Build Out?
When you build out, you’re extending your home horizontally by adding new rooms at the ground level. This often involves digging next to your existing structure, pouring a new foundation, and then constructing walls and a roof that tie into your current home. This approach is ideal for adding ground-floor spaces like open kitchens, family rooms, or guest suites.
In some cases, smaller additions that are sometimes called "bump-outs", can be done with minimal foundation work, which helps keep costs in check.
Pros of Building Out
Less disruption to your day-to-day life during construction.
Easier to connect new spaces to existing plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
Typically doesn't require major changes to the structural framing of your home.
Cons of Building Out
Reduces available yard or garden space.
May require city approval if you’re getting close to setback boundaries.
Subject to zoning rules like Floor Area Ratio (FAR), which can limit how much of your lot you’re allowed to build on.
Tip: Check with Santa Barbara’s Community Development Department to review current zoning codes before moving forward.
Common Building Out Projects
Extending kitchens or dining areas.
Adding a living room or sunroom.
Creating a main-level guest room or in-law suite.
Constructing a garage or carport.
Building a detached studio or workspace in the backyard.
When Building Up Makes Sense
Adding square footage above your existing home is another way to grow, especially if your lot size is tight or you’d rather not give up garden space. Whether it’s a full second story or just finishing an attic, going vertical opens up new possibilities.
Why Homeowners Choose to Build Up
You keep your yard untouched, which is ideal if outdoor living is a big part of your lifestyle.
You’re less likely to bump into setback or lot coverage limits, since you’re not increasing your home’s footprint.
Going up may even give you a view, better light, or a chance to create a more private upper-level suite.
Some Challenges to Be Aware Of
It’s a bigger interruption to daily life. You may need to move out temporarily while construction happens.
Your current structure needs to handle the load. This might mean reinforcing your foundation or walls, which can add time and cost.
There are height restrictions to watch. Santa Barbara currently caps most residential builds at 45 feet. While there’s talk of increasing that, the change hasn’t taken effect yet.
Popular Ways People Build Up
Add a second story to create more bedrooms, bathrooms, or a home office.
Convert attic space with dormers or skylights into something livable.
Build above an existing garage which is perfect for a studio or guest suite.
Design a rooftop deck to take advantage of views or just enjoy the breeze.
6 Things to Keep in Mind Before Expanding
Choosing between building up or out isn’t always black and white. It often comes down to what works best for your property, your lifestyle, and your long-term plans. Here are six important things to think through before making the call:
1. Take Stock of Your Lot
Got a big backyard? A side yard with space to spare? A horizontal expansion might be the easiest route. But if your home is on a compact lot, building up could be the smarter (and only) move.
2. Don’t Skip Zoning Rules
Local codes can make or break a project. Santa Barbara has regulations around setbacks, lot coverage, and building height. HOA guidelines and historical overlays may apply, too. Always check before you design.
3. Match Your Space to Your Lifestyle
If you’re adding a kitchen or want direct access to the garden, building out usually makes more sense. If you’re adding bedrooms or want extra privacy, a second story might be the better fit.
4. Expect Some Disruption
Vertical builds are more invasive because you’re removing the roof and touching major systems, which could mean living elsewhere for a bit. Horizontal remodeling can be easier to live through but may disrupt your yard and exterior access.
5. Budget Beyond the Basics
Set aside an extra 10–20% of your budget for surprises such as structural repairs or permit delays. Additions usually increase resale value, but don’t overbuild beyond what your neighborhood can support.
6. Hire a Contractor Who Knows the Terrain
Home additions aren’t a DIY job. A trusted, local builder like Kellow Construction can help you navigate zoning, engineering, and design, all while making sure your addition looks and feels like it was always part of the house.
So, Should You Build Up or Build Out?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on your goals, your lot, and your budget. Here’s a simple way to look at it:
Build Out If:
You have a wide lot of backyard
You’re expanding ground-level rooms (kitchen, family room, etc.)
You’d rather not move out during construction
You’re looking to avoid height restrictions
Build Up If:
Your outdoor space is limited or already in use
You need to maximize square footage
You want a better view or more privacy
You’re ready for a bigger investment with bigger rewards
Many homeowners end up blending the two for example, expanding the kitchen outwards and adding bedrooms upstairs.
Whatever path you take, the team at Kellow Construction is here to guide you from concept to completion.
