Wall Removal vs Extension: Which Is More Cost-Effective in Perth?
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When Perth homeowners run out of space, two ideas usually come to mind — knock down a wall to open up existing rooms or extend the home to add new ones. Both can completely transform your living space, but the costs, approvals and results are very different.
So, which delivers the better value? For many Perth homes, wall removal offers a faster, cheaper and more energy-efficient path to a modern open-plan lifestyle. Extensions still have their place — especially for growing families — but wall removal often provides the biggest lifestyle boost for the lowest investment.
Let’s explore how the two compare so you can decide what’s right for your home and budget.
The Perth Renovation Landscape
Perth’s housing mix — from character homes in Mount Lawley to newer brick veneer builds in the outer suburbs — offers huge potential for layout improvements.
- Older homes: often have small, enclosed rooms and thick double-brick walls that make them feel dated.
- Newer builds: may already have open layouts but can still benefit from selective wall removal to connect spaces or improve flow.
- Extensions: are ideal when you truly need more floor area — for instance, adding bedrooms, bathrooms or a granny flat.
Understanding your main goal — more space or better space — is the key to choosing between wall removal and an extension.
Wall Removal: The Cost-Effective Space Creator
1. Lower Construction Costs
Removing an internal wall typically costs a fraction of what an extension does. Even with engineering and beam installation.
2. Faster Results
A professional wall removal project can often be completed within a week, including approvals and finishing. Extensions, on the other hand, may take several months.
3. Minimal Disruption
You can usually stay in your home during a wall removal. Extensions require earthworks, new slabs, roof tie-ins and extended building time.
4. No Extra Land Required
In many Perth suburbs, block sizes are getting smaller. Wall removal makes your home feel bigger without increasing its footprint.
5. Natural Light and Airflow
Opening up spaces improves daylight penetration and airflow — perfect for Perth’s sunny, coastal climate.
6. Adds Value Through Modern Design
Buyers love open-plan living. Removing walls instantly updates your home’s feel, improving both everyday comfort and resale appeal.
Home Extensions: When More Really Is More
1. Additional Bedrooms or Bathrooms
If you need more functional rooms, only an extension can deliver them. Wall removal can’t create new areas; it reconfigures existing ones.
2. Higher Cost, Higher Potential
Extensions cost more but can add substantial value, especially if they increase the home’s bedroom count or floor area.
3. Longer Timeframes
Expect at least three to six months for design, council approval and construction.
4. Bigger Council Involvement
Unlike internal wall removal, extensions require full planning approval, boundary considerations and often energy assessments.
5. More Energy to Heat and Cool
A larger home means more space to maintain — increasing long-term energy costs.
When Wall Removal Is the Smarter Choice
For most Perth homeowners looking to improve lifestyle rather than add rooms, wall removal offers better return on investment.
It’s particularly ideal if you want to:
- Modernise an older layout
- Improve lighting and ventilation
- Create a connected kitchen–dining–living space
- Add value before selling
Even small changes — like removing a single wall — can make your home feel dramatically larger.
When an Extension Makes Sense
If your family is growing, you’re adding a home office, or you need a guest suite or second bathroom, a full extension may be worth the extra cost. It’s a major project, but one that can transform the functionality and long-term value of your home.
Perth Case Study: Bigger Feel, Smaller Cost
A family in Scarborough wanted more space but couldn’t extend due to their small block. By removing two internal brick walls between the kitchen, dining and lounge, they created a spacious open-plan area filled with natural light. The project took five days, cost under $9,000, and added significant resale appeal — all without losing backyard space.
FAQs
Do I need council approval for wall removal?
Yes, for
load-bearing walls. A building permit and structural engineering drawings are required in Perth.
Will removing walls add value?
Yes. Open-plan layouts are highly desirable and can improve both livability and resale price.
Can I remove walls in a double-brick home?
Absolutely — with the right engineering and steel beam installation.
Is wall removal messy?
There’s dust and noise, but professional contractors minimise disruption with proper preparation and cleanup.
Key Takeaways
- Wall removal is faster, cheaper and less disruptive than extensions.
- It enhances light, airflow and design appeal without increasing your footprint.
- Extensions are best when you need extra rooms, not just better flow.
- In Perth’s market, open-plan living remains one of the strongest value drivers.
Final Word
Both wall removal and extensions can transform your home, but for most Perth families, opening up existing spaces offers the best mix of affordability, style and practicality.
If you want your home to feel bigger, brighter and more connected without breaking the bank, wall removal may be the smarter first step.
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