Regardless of the overall floor space or whether there are large beams or trusses in the way, the basic considerations when converting your loft are as follows:
- According to Building Regulations, you need a minimum of 2.4 metres at its highest point to comply as living space (this is measured from the top of the ceiling boards to the apex of your roof)
- Final standing room after conversion needs to be a minimum of 2 metres
Trusses can also be removed by professionals and replaced with steel or timber alternatives to support the property accordingly.
Once these points have been taken care of, there are several loft conversion ideas that will help make the most of your small space:
1. Install Dormer Windows
If planning permission allows, dormer windows will give a small loft added space. As they project beyond the line of the roof, when placed strategically, they can add valuable room to any conversion. They also work well when creating little snug areas within your loft conversion!
2. Maximise Light
This goes hand in hand with choosing the right windows for your space. Picking the right type of windows will help to bring in as much natural light as possible.
Remember that you can also use some clever trickery to maximise the light in the space you have. This includes the use of mirrors strategically placed to bounce the natural light around the room, and clever lighting schemes which enhance the mood and certain areas within the space.
3. Use Clever Storage
Although you might worry that fitted storage will reduce the amount of living space you have within the room, it can actually help to make the room look bigger. This is because it hides clutter; a room which is overwhelmed by bits and bobs will always feel smaller than it is, so make sure that everything within the room has its place.
Similarly, you may wish to keep decorative items to a minimum, or at the very least find simple items which don’t overpower the room.
4. Bigger can be Better (when it comes to Furniture)
Don’t rule out large pieces of furniture; if you choose the right piece, it can act as a focal point within the room. For example, a large but simple bed will be a centrepiece when dressed with cushions and throws to give the room an inviting feel without overpowering it.
No matter how small your loft space, by following these simple ideas you can make sure that you make the most of the space available to you. Any loft can be converted; it’s just a matter of knowing how to go about it.