Home additions can accommodate your growing family.

Planning a Home Addition in Pembroke, MA: Costs, Zoning, and Design in 2025

December 7, 20250

Adding space to your home is one of the most impactful ways to increase comfort, functionality, and long-term property value. And if you live in Pembroke, MA, you’re in good company — homeowners across the South Shore are expanding their homes to add bedrooms, larger kitchens, home offices, in-law suites, and more with a home addition in Pembroke, MA.

This guide walks through realistic addition costs, Pembroke zoning rules, timelines, and design ideas so you can plan your project confidently.

Interested in a free consultation for your home renovation project? Colony Home Improvement has over 40 years of experience and offers free estimates. Contact us today!

How Much Does a Home Addition Cost in Pembroke, MA?

Most Pembroke homeowners spend $150,000–$450,000+ on a home addition, depending on size, structure, finishes, and whether you’re expanding up or out.

Typical price ranges by project type

Type of Addition Typical Cost Range (Pembroke)
Single-story addition $100,000–$300,000
Second-story addition $250,000–$450,000+
Primary suite addition $180,000–$350,000
Kitchen expansion $135,000–$350,000
In-law suite $150,000–$400,000
Bump-out addition $40,000–$90,000

What drives cost in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts tends to run slightly higher than national averages due to:

  • Strict building codes

  • Climate considerations (snow loads, insulation requirements)

  • Engineering requirements for older homes

  • Higher-quality materials and finishes common in the region

If you’re budgeting your project, aim to include:

  • Construction costs

  • Architectural/engineering plans

  • Permits and inspections

  • HVAC, plumbing, and electrical upgrades

  • Contingency buffer (10–15%)

Understanding Pembroke, MA Zoning Rules for Home Additions

Before designing your project, it’s important to understand how Pembroke’s zoning bylaws affect what you can build. These rules determine setbacks, height limits, lot coverage, and permit requirements.

1. Setbacks

Most residential zoning districts in Pembroke require:

  • Front setback: around 35 feet

  • Side setbacks: typically 15 feet

  • Rear setback: generally 20–30 feet

Your exact setback depends on your zoning district and lot size.

2. Height limitations

Most Pembroke homes must follow:

  • 35-foot max height

  • Two-and-a-half stories

Second-story additions are typically allowed, but may require additional structural engineering.

3. Lot coverage

Pembroke restricts how much of your lot can be covered by structures.
If your new addition pushes the total past the allowed percentage, you may need a variance.

4. When you need a special permit

You’ll likely need a special permit if:

  • You’re expanding into a setback area

  • You’re adding an accessory dwelling (in-law suite)

  • Your house is nonconforming and you’re altering the existing structure

5. Required documentation

Expect to provide:

  • Site plan

  • Architectural drawings

  • Structural engineering

  • Energy compliance documentation

  • Detailed construction plans

Colony Home Improvement handles all the permitting logistics for clients — the town paperwork doesn’t have to be a headache.

How Long Does a Home Addition Take in Pembroke?

Most additions take 6–9 months from design through final inspections.

Typical timeline

  1. Initial consultation: 1–2 weeks

  2. Design + architectural drawings: 4–8 weeks

  3. Permitting with Pembroke: 4–6 weeks (can be longer during busy periods)

  4. Construction: 3–6 months

  5. Final inspections + finishing touches: 1–2 weeks

Weather, engineering surprises, supply chain delays, and custom finishes can influence the duration.

Popular Home Addition Design Ideas in Pembroke, MA

1. Expanded kitchen with open-concept layout

Great for older New England homes with chopped-up layouts.
Add square footage + relocate walls to create a more modern flow.

2. Second-story expansion for growing families

Adds bedrooms, a primary suite, or a dedicated home office without expanding the footprint.

3. In-law suite additions

Very common in Pembroke due to multigenerational living trends.
Often includes:

  • Bedroom

  • Bathroom

  • Small kitchenette

  • Private entrance

4. Sunrooms or four-season rooms

A bright, flexible space that adds charm and year-round usability.

5. Primary suite addition

Popular upgrades include:

  • Walk-in closet

  • Oversized bathroom

  • Vaulted ceilings

  • Private deck

6. Garage expansions

Many colonial-style Pembroke homes benefit from converting a simple garage into a garage + mudroom + bonus room addition.

Realistic Budgeting Tips for Pembroke Homeowners

  • Add a 10–15% contingency buffer

  • Account for temporary living arrangements if adding a second story

  • Plan for HVAC upgrades (common in older homes)

  • Be ready for electrical panel upgrades (very common in pre-1990 homes)

  • Factor in high-efficiency insulation to meet MA energy codes

Why Work With a Local, Experienced Contractor?

A Massachusetts home addition isn’t a simple project. You’re navigating:

  • Local zoning rules

  • Structural complexity

  • Energy codes

  • Design decisions

  • Permitting sequences

  • Budget management

Colony Home Improvement has been building additions across the South Shore for 40+ years, and we handle:

  • Design

  • Engineering

  • Permitting

  • Construction

  • Finishing

— all under one roof.

Ready to Explore an Addition for Your Pembroke Home?

If you’re considering expanding your home, we’d love to help you map out ideas, costs, and timelines.

📞 Book a free home addition consultation
📍 Serving Pembroke and the entire South Shore
🔧 Licensed & fully insured Massachusetts contractor

Interested in a free consultation for your home renovation project? Colony Home Improvement has over 40 years of experience and offers free estimates. Contact us today!