The loft represents an undefined space with the potential of increasing the property’s value.
Therefore, it does create a functional space for storage, a bedroom, living, bathroom or even a home office.
Can My Loft Be Converted?
But not all loft spaces are usable. Some of the minimum characteristics include:
- The roof height should be between 2.2m or more;
- If you have roof trusses, you’ll need extra structural support which will increase the cost of your conversion;
- The floor below the loft will also change. Stairs for access are part of the regulatory requirements;
- Planning permission and building regulations to consider.
After assessing your loft, you can start planning your conversion design.
What Is the Most Popular Room Idea?
The extra bedroom is still the most popular room conversion idea. However, some factors determine if a bedroom is the best idea.
Turning the loft to a dedicated sleeping area needs additional building regulations and requirements.
- Sufficient headroom to move around the room without hitting the ceiling. If you need to alter the roof to accommodate this change then you also need additional planning permission;
- Floor, walls and roof insulation make the room thermally efficient;
- Fire and safety compliance should include:
- An escape route from the loft to the front door;
- A proper staircase and not a ladder;
- Headroom of 2m minimum along the whole escape route;
- Upgrade of materials to be fire-resistant;
- Fitting of a fire safety door which is accessible in and out of the new loft bedroom.
Home Office Conversion Ideas
Having a home office is ideal when you want to work from home. You can design a dedicated workspace that allows you the freedom of working the hours you desire.
Before you start the design process, define the purpose of the workspace area. Doing so will help to plan for the actual space for your desk and chair compared to any storage space.
Some tips to help you improve the usability of the office space:
- Build a wall to wall bookshelf for storage and to maximise space;
- Add a built-in wrap-around desk instead of buying a freestanding one;
- Build the shelves in the nooks that help support the roof structure;
- Your storage should be multifunctional;
- Sloped ceiling proves the perfect space for extra recessed shelving;
- Tuck the workspace under eaves, bespoke shelving can also be used to create more storage;
- A better working environment helps you get a lot more done.
Bathroom Conversion Ideas
The bathroom is not an easy conversion project, despite its high market value.
The awkward dimensions in the loft and possibly extra plumbing needed, make it cost-inefficient.
Still, that shouldn’t discourage you from exploring the possibility of installing an extra bathroom. One design addition to improving the loft bathroom is introducing as much natural light as possible.
Angus Eitel of fiftypointeight Architecture + Interiors advises on installing large windows to allow as much light as possible. Aside from that, you can also try out these tips:
- Put the showerhead at the topmost part of a sloped ceiling;
- If the space is small, you can build a wet room instead; Waterproof the whole room and have a slight slope on the floor for drainage;
- Use white tiles to make the room look bigger;
- For a loft with a low ceiling, a bathtub could be the best option;
- Add a skylight to bring in more natural light and ventilation;
- To add extra space to your loft master ensuite, leave out the separating wall;
- Make sure your current heating system can provide for the loft.
Conclusion
Whatever idea you choose, remember to make it practical and functional.