WHEN any alterations or additions are contemplated, they should receive the most careful consideration before the plans are put into execution; indeed, in many cases more study and good judgment are often required to successfully carry out alterations so that the new work will harmonize with the old, than to plan a new building of equal magnitude.

It not unfrequently happens that additions are made in such a way that they look misplaced, and add' nothing to the appearance of the building. Nor is this all; it should be more definitely known how much is to be done, and how much it is to cost, than is usually the case. Frequently the matter is simply talked over, and a carpenter set to work by the day to tear down and build up without any definite regard as to when or where to stop, one thing after another calling for further alteration until the cost may exceed that of a new house.

This is the experience of many, and should be carefully avoided by those whose means are limited, and whose tastes are sensitive; for cost what the additions may, there are always left reminders of the old house. Our advice, where extensive alterations are needed, is to tear down the old house, and utilize the material as far as possible in a new one.

The services of an architect cannot be employed to better pecuniary advantage to the owner than in giving' advice and making plans for alterations and additions; in fact, his services are almost, if not quite, indispensable in such work.

Additions

In chapter XIII (Bed-Rooms. - How To Make Them Cheerful, Comfortable, And Healthful. - Bed-Room Furniture. - Cheap But Useful Furniture. - How To Make A Bed-Room Table. - Wash-Stand With Drapery) of this work will be found some practical illustrations of how additions can be made. If the house as originally built contemplated additions, little trouble will be experienced in the work, especially if the additions are in front and conceal the part first erected. The plan then would be very much like a new house with fewer rooms.