Which loft conversion is best for my property in London?
If you’ve got loft plans for your London property, you’ve chosen a great way to add more space to your home.
By understanding the different types of loft extensions for London properties, you’ll get a feel for what is right for your home.
Read our latest post to learn more about the main kinds of loft conversions and whether they are suitable for your property.
Rooflight loft conversion
A rooflight loft extension is one of the most straightforward types of conversions — and can also be one of the most affordable options.
It involves making some simple adjustments to your existing loft space, which include adding rooflights (also known by the brand name VELUX windows) and stairs and doing electrical and plumbing work. You may also need to reinforce the existing floor.
A rooflight loft conversion is ideal if you only need one extra room — for example, a master bedroom — and is possible on just about any type of property.
Dormer loft conversion
A dormer loft conversion uses a box-like structure that projects up vertically from your existing roof.
The main draw of this type of loft conversion is that it can increase both the roof and floor space. You can opt for a single dormer extension, a double-width dormer (which takes up the whole width of your property), or even an L-shaped dormer conversion.
The last one works well in older terraced properties that have already been extended to the rear.
Hip-to-gable loft conversion
A hip-to-gable loft conversion changes the sloping side of your roof into a vertical wall (this is the gable part), which is built to the same height as the ridge.
A standard pitched roof is added so you get plenty of headroom inside, while the vertical wall allows you to add standard windows.
This spacious type of loft conversion is ideal for end-of-terrace or detached properties.
Mansard loft conversion
This type of loft conversion adds an almost-vertical wall and a flat roof to your property, which runs along its entire width.
It’s ideal for properties where there is restricted head height or if you want to create extra space in addition to what’s already available in your loft.
A mansard loft conversion can work on most properties, including terraced houses, and you can even add one at the front and one at the back. However, it is one of the most involved types of loft conversion and can be more expensive than other options.
Where do I start with my London loft conversion?
Now that you’ve got an idea of which type of loft conversion would suit your home, it’s time to consult with the professionals.
One of the best ways to understand what you can do with your loft space is to work with an architect.
They can assess your property and advise which type of loft conversion is best for your space and the purpose you want to use it for. Your architect can then proceed to draw up plans for your builders to use to create your extra space.
And that’s not all. Your architect can even project-manage your building work, ensuring that all paperwork like planning permission (if necessary) and building regulations are complied with and that contractors work to schedule.
You may be wondering about loft conversion architect cost. Of course, you will be charged a fee for a professional architect’s services, but many property owners see this as a wise investment in their home.
Turn to Humphreys & Sons for loft conversion architectural services
Converting a loft is an exciting project, but there are lots of factors to consider. If you need help deciding which type of conversion suits your property or with any other aspect of your project, turn to Humphreys & Sons.
We’re a family-owned architectural and chartered building surveyors firm with extensive experience in a variety of building projects throughout London and Essex.
We’d love to talk to you about creating a beautiful and functional loft extension, so get in touch today!