Loft Conversions
At Dream House Design we start by assessing the space you have available in your current loft. We will be looking at the internal height initially, measuring the roof pitch, (this will enable us to see the central head height) and assessing the footprint. We will then be looking at how you will be using the space and what sort of loft conversion you will require.
Planning permission isn’t generally required, but Building Regulations are, so getting a structural engineer to provide calculations on the weight loading for the new floors, all fire safety regulations are followed, stairs are designed safely to access the new floor and insulation is sufficient. Dream House Designs work alongside highly experienced structural engineers to support you in this part of the project. Making sure you consider if your loft extension requires a party wall agreement is essential, there are specialist surveyors we work with who can guide you through this process.
Choosing the right style of loft conversion
Getting the right loft extension to meet the needs of your family and depending on if planning permission is required or not, you have the choice of:
A Dormer Loft Conversion – this is an extremely popular choice, as you gain substantial additional space and head room, great light and ventilation with standard windows. It is suitable for most loft spaces and often falls under permitted development.
A Mansard Loft Conversion – like the dormer, you gain substantial space with good head room, the light and ventilation are also good. A mansard loft conversion is a better-looking solution and is often chosen by clients with older properties.
A Hip to Gable Loft Conversion – Often chosen by clients with an end of terrace property, detached home or bungalow, this type of conversion gives you the maximum floor and head space and you will often see this on the rear of properties. These conversions generally require planning permission and can take the longest to construct.
A Roof Light Loft Conversion – this type of loft conversion is generally the cheapest, it is most likely to be approved if you are in a conservation area and no alteration of the roof is required other than the addition of Velux Windows.