Denver Architecture Firm: New Home vs Pop-Top Addition & Major Remodel

We recently heard from a homeowner in Boulder County who was weighing their options for expanding their living space. They wanted guidance from a trusted Denver architecture firm, and at BSA Inc., we love helping homeowners make informed decisions about their homes. In this case, we compared building a new custom home versus a pop-top/second-story addition combined with a first-floor major remodel, looking closely at square footage, architect fees, and project timelines.

Comparing a New Custom Home and a Pop-Top Addition by a leading Denver Architecture Firm

Every project is unique, and costs will vary depending on materials, design complexity, and engineering needs. Additional services like civil, structural, energy, HVAC, or plumbing consulting are separate, but for this analysis, we focused on architectural services provided by a Denver architecture firm.

A new custom home of about 3,000 sq. ft. usually requires a full set of plans—roughly 20 sheets of 36”x24” prints. Architect fees typically range from $85,000–$110,000.

By comparison, a pop-top or second-story addition of 1,500 sq. ft., combined with a first-floor remodel of 1,500 sq. ft., usually needs around 12 sheets of plans, with architect fees in the $50,000–$65,000 range.

At BSA Inc., we guide homeowners through these numbers so you understand exactly what each option entails.

Timeline Considerations

Timing is another important factor. A new custom home generally requires 6–7 months of architectural work, whereas a pop-top addition and first-floor remodel usually take 4–5 months. Local building department approvals in Colorado can add extra time, but knowing the general timeline helps homeowners plan realistically.

How BSA Inc. Can Help

As a professional Denver architecture firm, BSA Inc. offers consulting services to ensure your project runs smoothly. Our guidance often includes:

• Schematic architectural design plans

• Site and land improvement considerations

• Zoning and building code requirements

• Review of existing building conditions

• Construction cost estimates

• Coordination with engineers as needed

  
  

Whether you’re thinking about a new custom home or a major remodel with a second-story addition, BSA Inc. helps homeowners make confident, informed choices that balance design, cost, and schedule.

Making the Right Choice

Deciding between a new home or a pop-top addition with a first-floor remodel depends on your goals, budget, and timeline. With the help of BSA Inc., a trusted Denver architecture firm, you’ll have clear comparisons, professional insight, and a plan that fits your family’s lifestyle.

Best Always,

Barry R. Shaw, AIA, GC

www.bsadesignbuild.com