Our prospective and current clients often assume that you can’t vary much in a Loft Design but the truth is there are a surprising amount of possibilities. The first question we ask our Design clients is what are you planning on using the new space for? Once you know the intended functionality of the area, it’ll become much more apparent what kind of design you should go for and we are here to guide you throughout and create something perfect!
What can I use my new space for?
From our experience, the most common use for a loft is an extra bedroom. Bedrooms add an incredible amount of value to a property; according to the Guardian, a loft conversion with a bedroom can add 22% to a property’s value. If you’re opting for a bedroom, we would usually design a rear dormer roof extension which means you are left with a larger area of full head-height towards the rear, with sloping ceilings towards the front. This gives you a surprisingly spacious room and low walls or alcoves can be used for storage. If you go with an L-shaped dormer design, you have the scope to include two new bedrooms or a bedroom with an en-suite.
Bathrooms comfortably work with sloping ceilings or low level walls. None of the appliances (except a shower) actually require full height; baths, sinks & toilets can be put against low walls and still be easily used. Additionally, a Velux window is more than enough light and ventilation for a bathroom. This means they can be positioned at the front where the sloping ceilings are more likely to be positioned. If you are looking to get a more substantial, family-sized bathroom, the room at the back of an L-shaped dormer can be a great, spacious bathroom.
What else can I do?
Loft conversions give you one, two and sometimes three good size rooms that you are free to do whatever you like with! Lots of our clients use their loft for a Study area which is particularly convenient because generally the loft is a quiet area and on a separate level so privacy comes easily.
Alternatively, we’ve also designed lofts which are used as a playroom – sloping ceilings doesn’t matter so much for the kids and all of their toys!
Another client recently requested we incorporate a Utility area in their loft design. This is handy if you want to remove all of the clutter from you kitchen.
What will I do with my current loft storage?
Before any work is done, lofts tend to be an ‘out of sight, out of mind’ space to keep all of the things that don’t get used very often. One of the fantastic things about converting your loft is that you don’t necessarily lose this valuable storage space. Towards the front of the property, where the ceilings are too low to be useful, storage can be built in. These cupboards are usually separated from the room using low level walls which can be fitted with small doors to make the space easily accessible from the new room. Say goodbye to tenuous climbs up a pull-down ladder!
Can I have any interesting design features?
One hugely popular design feature in a loft is a Juliette balcony. They provide great views into the garden and beyond, and help to add even more natural light and ventilation.
As most lofts don’t require full planning permission, just a Certificate of Lawful Use, the design is fairly flexible. If you are interested in developing your loft or have any questions, feel free to give us a ring on 0207 495 6561 and book in a free site visit today!
