Natwerk Designs

How much would it cost to convert an attached (not used for many years) storefront into a studio apartment?

There is water and electrical and gas, but no heat. It is fairly cool in the summer because it is attached and has a wall to the walk-in basement of my house. The place is 100 years old. It is about 500 square feet. I have a bathroom outside the space in the basement portion. I'd want a kitchen, bed and living space and I have drawn it out. I'd like to make it modern and sleek with high-end appliances. This is Wisconsin, so I have to get it heated well.

Public Comments

1. About $ 100 per square foot.
2. You have a number of options for the heating, electric baseboard heaters, gas or electric fireplace. Another option is radiant heat in the floor (very efficient & comfortable) depending on your flooring. You will need an electical outlet for every 6' of wall, generally, as well as lighting, appliances & communications. You may need to upgrade your electrical panel. Your existing main drain will determine where you can put your plumbing. The main drain may need an upgrade as well, or you may need to add an additional one in order to handle 2 sinks, tub, toilet & possibly laundry. Line up some estimates from electrical & plumbing & you will have a good idea what you're in for there. How much structure will you need? Framing & drywall. Paint & trim. Windows. Doors. Closets. Cabinets. Hardware. Fixtures. Lighting. Flooring. (new subfloor) Outside finishes. With so little to go on, my guess is $15-30+ thousand plus appliances. You can save on labour by doing as much as you can yourself & calling on friends & family. Some creative shopping for fixtures & materials can save much more. Good luck with your project! PS Design tip: If you have an internal bathroom (no window) install a transom window above the door to borrow light.