With many homes in the capital being of a period nature, you may be of the impression that older homes are not so suitable for a loft conversion. Well actually, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Yes, if your home is listed, you do need to take special care and follow all the rules and regulations. But there are still ways and means of converting your loft. And if you do have a gorgeous period property, chances are you’ll have the ideal loft space ready and available for your London loft conversion.
What are the Positives of Converting a Period Property?
The great thing about Edwardian and Victorian homes, as examples of period properties, is the fact that they have a good sized attic with ample roof pitch. With many period houses offering a roof pitch in excess of 45 degrees, there’s often little need to raise the roof. In some cases, the likes of a mezzanine floor for use as a small study, reading or more storage can even be added within the loft itself!
What do you Need to be Careful of when Converting the Loft of a Period Home?
If your house is a listed building, you do need to be extra careful, however. You most certainly will need to apply for planning permission, as well as Building Regulations approval, and you should seek advice on this before carrying out any changes; applying for planning permission in retrospect can be costly and time-consuming.
In many listed houses, the roof is an important part of what makes the house interesting. Three things that you need to consider in terms of the roof are:
• The history and significance of the roof timbers.
• The loft space and any other significant roof features.
• How the loft relates to the rest of the house and its layout.
You’ll also need to consider the placement of your staircase and how it will work with and alter the floor below. The staircase will, of course, also need to comply with Building Regulations.
Designing a Period Loft Conversion
In terms of design, decorating a period loft conversion depends on how the rest of your home is decorated. If you have period touches throughout the rest of your property, then we’d suggest carrying these through into your loft conversion design.
For example, why not include a copper roll top bath in the bathroom? If you have beams, why not leave these exposed? Furthermore, using reclaimed doors can really add an elegant touch to a loft conversion which is in keeping with your home as a whole.
If you’re unsure how best to convert your period property, speak to Bespoke Lofts. We can sympathetically convert the loft of your London home to comply with planning permissions and building regulations and to give you a beautiful new usable space within your home.