Loft conversions can transform a limited space into a new, usable place in your home – whether you’re converting a bungalow or adding a second or third floor to your house. If your family is growing, a new bedroom can be added without needing to move home. You can create an additional bathroom, an office space, or even a rent-out space for long or short-term lets.
The benefits of a loft conversion include more than just extended space, too. Converting your loft can improve natural lighting as well as adding an extra layer of improved insulation to the top of your house – something which can be a huge help with soaring energy bills.
What is a loft conversion?
Converting your loft might seem like a far-fetched idea, but you might be surprised by what a loft conversion could add to your home. While the process can feel daunting, there are expert architects in your area who can guide you through it.
Most homes have an allowance for permitted development, which means that you won’t even need planning permission to embark on the project. However, if you live in a conservation area or listed building, or your roof space isn’t complicated, you may need to seek advice from a loft conversion architect. They will be able to visit your home and make the relevant checks.
READ OUR GUIDE: DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION? YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE
Types of loft conversion
There are four main types of loft conversion, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Have a think about what the right solution is for you and your home. If you aren’t sure what the answer is, MyHousePlan has loft conversion architects on hand to help advise you.
Roof light conversions
Roof lights are the most affordable way of converting your loft, and are often more suitable for those in conservation areas who might otherwise struggle with planning permission.
For a roof light conversion, the shape and pitch of the roof remain the same, with the conversion simply adding in skylight windows as well as interior changes such as flooring and building a staircase.
Roof light loft conversions are, however, only suitable for lofts that already have an adequate amount of space.
Dormer loft conversions
Dormer loft conversions protrude from sloped roofs, making them a popular option for houses with a sloped roof that need a little more space. Still on the lower-cost end of the spectrum, a dormer conversion requires more structural changes than other types of conversion – and therefore may take a little longer to complete.
Hip-to-gable loft conversions
Hip-to-gable loft conversions are suitable for houses with free sloping side roofs. They extend this sloping roof to the side of your house and create a vertical wall that can give you much more space in your loft conversion.
However, as a free side is needed, this type of conversion is only suitable for detached or semi-detached houses. Detached houses can even build on either side to create a much larger double extension!
Mansard loft conversions
Mansard loft conversions can create a lot of new and useable space, as well as being adaptable to most types of properties regardless of the build type.
They can be pricier but will result in much more extra space in your home.
Do I need an architect for a loft conversion?
Unless you are experienced in construction, a loft conversion isn’t something that you want to attempt yourself. With structural considerations, council contacts, and planning permission to take into account, it’s best to bring in an architect who knows exactly what they’re doing and can not only advise you on the best approach – but help you get your plans secured.
MyHousePlan’s team of expert architects use cutting-edge design technology to bring your ideas to life with structural and 3D loft extension planning drawings, to help you visualise your options before you begin the work.
We work closely with councils in Essex, including Basildon and Southend, and can help you with any planning permission applications where needed.
View our latest loft conversion project in Rayleigh, Essex here.
Do you have a project on the horizon?
Get in touch with MyHousePlan today to speak with an architect and get your loft conversion plans moving. Get the best out of your house, by using the space you’ve already got. Our experts work on projects right across Essex. Contact us today for a FREE loft conversion quote.
