Many people wrongly believe that a small loft either cannot be converted or isn't worth converting. However, this couldn't be further from the truth, as even the smallest loft space can be converted into a highly usable and stylish new room. Regardless of how small your loft is, there is many a loft conversion before and after photo that will show you just how beautiful your attic could be.
Can a small loft be converted?
You may have looked at your loft space and thought there's no way you could get a useful, habitable room by undertaking a loft build project. But that couldn't be further from the truth. Even the smallest of roof spaces can be transformed, and there are always ways and means around any issues that may require attention.
Ways to increase both head height and usable space in a small loft include creating a dormer loft conversion, or using space-saving loft stairs. Your trusted loft specialist will be able to advise on the best ways to make the most of your new loft room. They'll also be equipped to answer any questions you may have on aspects such as permitted development, Building Regulations, and whether you require planning permission. Talk to them about what can be achieved and the differences you'll see before and after a loft conversion, too.
Is it worth converting your small loft?
It can often be worth converting a small loft. You may wish to carry out a straightforward, simple build making use of rooflight windows. This is an excellent way of gaining an extra guest bedroom or a home office, for example. Alternatively, you could go for a slightly more complex conversion or a loft extension, perhaps which builds out over a double-storey extension below.
Suddenly this will give you a large amount of habitable space with multiple uses.
Of course, whether you consider it worth transforming your attic will also depend on your individual needs and whether you're looking to add value to your property. As a general rule, most roof space builds will add value to your home. Ask your trusted specialists to show you a loft conversion before and after gallery of small attic extensions so that you can see whether it will suit your needs. You can also look at similar properties in your area to see whether an attic conversion will add value to your home or check out our case studies page for some ideas.
Do I need planning permission for a small loft conversion?
Whether you require planning permission for your small loft build will really depend on the structural work that is taking place. Many small lofts can be converted as part of your Permitted Development rights, depending on whether you've carried out any extension work elsewhere within your home.
Under Permitted Development rights, you can create a new loft room as long as no more than 40 cubic metres added to the roof space of terraced houses. And no more than 50 cubic metres to a detached or semi-detached house. On top of this, you will also need to ensure that other conditions are met, such as:
- The extension not going beyond the existing roof slope of the principal elevation that fronts the highway.
- The extension is not higher than the highest part of the roof.
- No verandas, balconies or raised platforms are added.
- The materials used are in-keeping with the existing house.
- Side-facing windows are obscured and windows less than 1.7m from the floor are non-opening.
- Roof extensions do not overhang the outer face of the wall of the original house.
- Roof extensions (excluding hip to gable ones) are set back as far as is practicable and at least 20cm from the original eaves.
If you do wish to do any of the above, you will need planning permission. Therefore, if you're interested in adding just a simple loft room within your attic space, you are less likely to need planning permission. Your loft conversion specialists will talk you through this aspect of your roof space build.
Want to convert your small loft into something beautiful?
If your answer to this is yes, get in touch with Bespoke Lofts. We can arrange to show you a gallery of loft conversion before and after photos so you can see for yourself just what can be achieved within your small roof space.