Why Consider a Loft Conversion? A loft conversion can increase your property’s value by up to 20%. Many families opt for this solution to gain extra space without the costly and stressful process of moving home. Additionally, work in the loft can be less disruptive than a major extension to existing living spaces. However, be cautious not to over-invest in your property. If you extend too far, you may not see a return on your investment. Is My Loft Usable Space? Before proceeding, assess whether your roof space is suitable for conversion. Here are three key factors to check: Internal Height: Measure from the top of the ceiling joist to the underside of the ridgeboard at the apex. You need a minimum height of 2,500mm for a suitable conversion. Roof Pitch: Measure the angle of the roof. A higher pitch often results in more headroom. Footprint: As a general rule, internal measurements should be at least 5,500mm from side to side and 7,500mm from front to back, including any chimneys. How Will I Use the Space? Once you establish that your loft can be converted, consider how you want to use the new space. Options include: An extra bedroom with an en-suite bathroom A den or playroom for children A study or a relaxation area A multi-purpose room that doubles as guest accommodation If you plan to include a bathroom, ensure there is sufficient headroom, and consider built-in storage, especially in the eaves. Be realistic about the usable space, as angled ceilings can limit movement and the type of furniture you can use. Can I Convert the Loft Myself? While it is possible to attempt a DIY loft conversion, the process is complex and usually requires Building Regulations approval. Many people opt to hire a specialist loft conversion company to handle the work. Who Should I Use for My Loft Conversion? You have several options: Architect/Technician or Building Surveyor: They will prepare designs, obtain necessary approvals, and may help find a suitable builder to manage the project. Specialist Loft Conversion Company: These companies provide a comprehensive service, from design to construction. Experienced Builder: Some builders have experience with loft conversions and can offer a package similar to that of specialist companies. Use our Find a Local Tradesman service to help with your loft conversion project. Always obtain at least three quotes and ensure that contractors visit your site for accurate measurements. Do I Need Planning Permission, Building Regulations, or a Party Wall Agreement? Planning permission is typically not required unless you are extending the roof space or exceeding specified limits, such as dormers higher than the current roof peak or if you live in a conservation area. It’s best to check with your local planning department. Building regulations ensure the safety and structural integrity of the conversion, including stairs, insulation, and fire safety measures. You may also need to comply with The Party Wall Act 1996, which requires notifying adjoining owners. Other Considerations Protect yourself with a RIBA building contract for any domestic works. Consider potential pitfalls, such as stair regulations and plumbing upgrades. With proper planning and the right contractor, your loft conversion can be smooth and rewarding, adding valuable space to your home. Recap Assess your existing loft space. Decide how you want to use the space. Choose a contractor and get at least three quotes. Consider planning, party wall, and building regulation requirements. Pre-empt potential issues with your contractor. Get a contract in place to clarify responsibilities. Inform your insurer about the building works to ensure coverage. If you live in the following areas, please give us a call or schedule a call back, and we’ll do our best to assist you: Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, and surrounding areas.

As the coronavirus continues to spread, we find ourselves spending more time at home. Rooms that once served only a few waking hours now encompass our entire lives. Whether this change is temporary or not, it serves as a reminder of how crucial our homes are to our daily existence. During times of crisis, we typically seek environments that are comforting, safe, and dependable. This situation will undoubtedly lead to a renewed appreciation for our domestic spaces, and people will value their homes more than ever before. How the New Reality May Reshape Home Design Here are our thoughts on rethinking home design architecture in light of this new reality: Increased Focus on Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency We will have a more informed understanding of how our homes function. There will be a push for increased efficiency and resilience, while reducing waste and dependence on external resources. As we become more aware of the unreliability of third parties in a changing economy, incorporating sustainable infrastructure at home will gain importance. This may lead to a shift towards autonomous living, including self-generating energy and growing our own food. Emphasis on Health and Hygiene Awareness of health will become paramount, with more focus on ensuring our homes contribute to our well-being. Features like HEPA filters and fresh-air intakes will likely become standard. Entry foyers or mudrooms may become essential for washing and disinfecting ourselves and our belongings before entering the home. Additionally, there will be a greater interest in spaces for exercise, meditation, and relaxation. Sunrooms may gain popularity in colder climates for natural daylight, while edible gardens will allow for greater control over food quality. Balancing Public and Private Space There is a delicate balance in designing spaces that cater to privacy and community. As we increasingly live, work, and learn at home, designs will need to accommodate diverse activities and occupants. Dedicated spaces for private activities like working or studying, as well as flexible multi-purpose areas, will become increasingly important. The concepts of privacy, individual space, and the relationships between individuals, families, and neighbourhoods will be at the forefront of design considerations. Homes must be flexible enough to accommodate various activities while still providing enjoyment, regardless of their function. Maximising Natural Daylight and Outdoor Connection With most of our time spent indoors, maintaining a connection to the outdoors and access to natural light will be vital. Healthy interiors should incorporate natural light, ventilation, and outdoor connections—whether physical or visual. Increased daylighting and ventilation offer numerous benefits, including energy conservation, improved air quality, and enhanced well-being. Creative Use of Space Spending more time at home encourages creative utilisation of existing spaces. Converting an attic or finishing a basement can provide valuable areas for home offices, exercise rooms, or play areas. Making spaces more functional, efficient, and fluid will be key, as will finding uses for underutilised areas, such as storage under stairs. As we store more items, innovative storage solutions will be needed to maintain a clutter-free environment. Final Thoughts A home’s primary function is to provide shelter, but our expectations of it continue to grow. While the future of home design is uncertain, we know that focus will increasingly revolve around privacy, community, flexibility, efficiency, self-sufficiency, sustainability, wellness, and hygiene. This list will likely expand as homes become central to our lives.