How to make the most of your loft conversion
So you have finally decided to extend your living space vertically. The existing loft has possibilities and it’s just a matter of using a little imagination and you can have a real functional and aesthetically pleasing loft. More and more people are opting to convert their lofts into liveable spaces because for one, it’s cool to have a loft. Two, it’s easier to build a loft than move to a new and larger house. Third, a loft conversion increases the value of the property. Fourth, it’s less stressful to convert a loft than move. Fifth, it’s cheaper to convert a loft than buy a bigger house, take a look at our calculator showing loft conversion prices.
What to consider before designing your loft
First, find out if the ceiling height of your loft is close to 2.2 metres, this is the minimum height requirement. If the height requirement is ok, see if the existing layout allows for a staircase, you’ll need 1.9m headroom measured from the centre of the stairs, and 1.8m at the edge of the stairs to allow for the sloping roof.
What do you need the loft for?
You can convert a loft to accommodate a new bedroom with en-suite or a playroom for the children. You can also use the space for your home office or cinema room. What about converting the loft to a studio unit complete with a kitchenette, shower room, and a quiet little nook for sleeping? The other considerations when planning an undertaking like these are the plumbing and sanitary plans and the location and size of windows/rooflights. If everything is order, then here are some ideas for converting your loft.
Loft conversion ideas
A loft Bedroom
This is the most popular loft conversion project. The extra bedroom could serve as a guest room or as a regular bedroom. The old bedroom on the floor below could be converted into an office or a den in this case. A growing family needs the extra space and the best scenario is to convert the loft into a new master bedroom. If the loft is big enough, consider converting the space into two decent-sized children’s bedrooms. Don’t forget to incorporate a bathroom if possible.
A loft could easily accommodate a regular sized bathroom. When in doubt as to the correct layout and sizing of the bedrooms, then seek the services of an architect or loft conversion specialist to do the floor plans for you. It could be quite tricky to furnish the loft bedroom with regular sized furniture because of the irregularity of the space and the uneven ceiling line. In most cases, architects can be well-adept in finding solutions to your “tight” problems. Built-in wardrobes can be used instead. For the design and decor, choose whatever it is you like. After all, it’s your bedroom.
A loft home office
An office situated in the loft is ideal too. You can use the space as your very own refuge from all the hustle and bustle of the house down below. The home office should be comfortable and to your liking as you would spend a lot of time there. Consider the many office gadgets that you would have to install and use so make sure there are enough sockets and lighting fixtures. Make sure your work station suits your needs. If you have to meet with clients, provide comfortable seats. Access to the loft should be a well-designed and thought out. If the space is too big for just a home office, consider adding a quiet little nook for resting or sleeping. It is also advisable to add a bathroom at the loft for your convenience. Consider incorporating large Velux windows for day time lighting. Choose decors that are light and tasteful. The more minimal the design for a home office, the better it is.
A loft playroom
A playroom in the loft is ideal for a family with small children. Going up the loft is an adventure by itself and the young children will definitely enjoy having a space for themselves. The playroom could have small chairs and tables for the children to do arts and crafts. One corner could fitted in with shelves for books while another side could have stackable plastic bins for toys and other stuff. One area could be assigned for doing homework so a study desk is recommended. Another area could be designated as the “quiet” time where the kids could take a break and maybe take a nap. A television and games console would be great additions to the playroom too.
For older children or for teens, the loft could be converted into the ultimate “hang-out” place. The loft could be done in what’s “hip and cool” in terms of decor and colour. A TV is a must alongside a video console for the ultimate gaming experience right at the loft. Make sure the loft is Wi-Fi ready. Assign an area for doing homework. Make sure there is a serviceable table and some chairs for doing school work. Try to incorporate a sofa-bed for sleepovers or you can just have extra mattresses for this purpose.
Whatever you decide to make your loft it’ll be a great investment in your home, and will add value for years to come. You can find out more in our guide about the cost of converting your loft and try our loft conversion calculator for a ballpark figure.