Madison homes and adding space upstairs
Madison, the Rose City, is a walkable Morris County borough with Victorians, colonials, and early 1900s homes around its downtown and Drew University. Owners here invest in quality and expect work that respects the house's original character.
Big attics in older homes
Madison's Victorians and older homes often have tall attics that can become a third-floor suite with a dormer or two. Historic districts may review exterior changes, and we plan for that.
Colonials with walk-up attics
Many Madison colonials have a walk-up attic with a real staircase. With a dormer or two for headroom and egress, that attic can become a bedroom, office, or playroom.
Older framing needs an engineer's eye
Pre-war Madison homes were framed for loads of their day. We have an engineer confirm the rafters, ceiling joists, and foundation before designing any new space upstairs.
Madison pricing
A finished rear shed dormer on a Madison Cape typically runs $105,000 to $170,000 with an upstairs bathroom, reflecting the finish level typical here. Gable dormers run $18,000 to $32,000 each.
Build a planning estimate with the dormer cost calculator →
Permits in Madison
Dormers in Madison need stamped drawings and a building permit from the Madison construction office, and some projects also need a zoning review for height or bulk. DMF coordinates the architect and engineer, files everything, and represents the project at a zoning board hearing if one is needed.
How a Madison project runs
- Site visitWe measure upstairs, check framing, stairs, and zoning.
- Concept & priceA sketch of what's possible and a written price range.
- Design & permitsArchitect, engineer, zoning check, and building permit.
- BuildRoof off and dried in within days; finished in 10–16 weeks.
- FinalInspections, certificate of approval, walkthrough.
What neighbors say
“The projects went pretty smooth, they are very honest and fair, punctual which most important now a days.”
“The pricing was fair and competitive compared to other quotes that I have gotten. They gave me a step by step outline.”