Increasing home space
Latest Interiors takes a look at the ways of increasing space in your home if you don’t want to move
If space is short but you’re reluctant to make a move, that extra bedroom or office could still be yours. How? Latest Interiors considers the options for moving on up…
Lofty heights
Loft conversions are one of the most popular home improvements. And it’s not surprising: A good conversion can add an average of 200-300 sq ft of living space to a property without incurring moving costs, increasing its value by upwards of 15 per cent. In Brighton and Hove, where family-sized properties are at a premium, it could be even more.
The most common – and affordable – loft conversions are Velux or roof-light conversions (where flat windows are laid into the roof to provide light and ventilation), followed closely by dormer conversions (a boxed extension that adds head height as well as extra space in small lofts). Dormers add space to small lofts and, done well, look more ‘integrated’ than simple roof-lights. Conversions, however, aren’t suitable for all homes, and there are some minimum requirements: A good rule of thumb is that at least half the usable space should have a head height of 2.3m. There also needs to be enough room for a permanent staircase.
Sadly, some types of roof just aren’t suitable for conversion, and any alterations to roof line or shape are, currently, unlikely to be favoured by planners.
Marvellous mezzanines
If a loft conversion is out of the question, but you’re lucky enough to have head space in your home, make the most of it by adding a mezzanine level. Perfect for Victorian and Regency properties where ceilings – especially the ground and first floors – tend to be high, a well-planned mezzanine can increase floor space by up to 40per cent without detracting from the architectural style of the room (or damaging original features).
Where ceiling heights exceed around 3.5m, a simple gallery-style mezzanine can add valuable sleeping and workspace, and small second bedrooms can benefit from a mezzanine-style sleeping area. Many conversions use the space beneath a mezzanine to house kitchen or bathroom areas, with additional storage.
Ask the experts
However awkward or individual your space, there are usually ways of improving and increasing it. Get an expert opinion. Most companies will give you a free initial quote, and the benefit of their experience will have you upwardly mobile in no time.
Absolute Loft Conversions – For a free no-obligation quotation call 01273 206378. Full conversions to partconversion schemes are available for the DIY enthusiast.
Please visit www.absoluteloftconversion.co.uk
