The Best Loft Conversion Ideas For Your Home

Converting a loft can be a big investment and a daunting prospect. But get it right and you’ll add not just extra space but extra value to your home. However, to ensure it blends seamlessly into the flow of your home and your lifestyle, rather than consigned to becoming an awkwardly proportioned junk room, you need to start with some serious planning. And don’t forget the fun; it’s a fantastic opportunity to answer practical needs and unleash your creativity. Take a look at our inspiring loft extension ideas to get the creative juices flowing.

Before you decide on the purpose and style, it’s important to think about loft conversion types to maximise available layout.

• A ‘dormer’ loft conversion, an extension which projects from a sloping roof, providing the head space a steeply sloped roof can lack.
• A ‘hip to gable’ conversion is ideal for a roof with three or four sloped sides. A vertical wall (the gable) replaces one of the sloping sides, so loft space is increased without extending the footprint of your property.
• A ‘mansard’ loft conversion is best used if your home has two sloping sides to its roof. A 72° wall replaces one of them and a near flat roof is then used to connect to the other sloping side.
• Roof windows are often referred to as Velux conversions, named after one of the manufacturers who make them. They bring daylight into a generously sized loft that simply needs a more light.

To find more information and see if you’ll need planning permission in your area try the government site Planningportal.co.uk.

Consider loft bedroom design ideas if you want a new place to rest your head. A loft bedroom with an en suite is an ever-popular option, and definitely something worth aiming for. If you need to save space then invest in the right bedroom furniture. Look for beds that lift up to reveal storage space underneath and shallow closets can take up less floor space. Skylights and sun tunnels offer an easy way to flood the bedroom with the natural light it needs. Choose window coverings like Duette® skylight blinds to regulate the temperature in your loft bedroom so you can stay cool in summer and cool in winter.

Game room décor depends on who it’s for: big or little kids? A kid’s games room, like any playroom, should provide floor space to play and address safety concerns. Incorporate colourful and playful beanbags as opposed to traditional furniture to keep the number of sharp edges and corners at a minimum. Fit shelves that hold favourite books that are easy to grab but them to the floor to stop them toppling over.

If your kids already have a playroom or you just want to treat yourself there are plenty of fun and exciting design ideas to create an adult game room or man cave. Try the masculine combination of grey wall paint and a leather sofa in front of a flat screen. Try a pool or foosball table as a sociable focal point, and if you incorporate a bar you can play with a drink in your hand. When considering window coverings for playrooms, choose children's blinds with child safe operating systems like motorised and cordless choices.

Having your own space to work out is many fitness fanatics’ dream. Start with home gym flooring. The shock absorption properties of dense rubber mats or sprung wood flooring make them ideal options, and make sure you incorporate sound insulation to protect those below. Buy versatile, space saving home gym equipment to make the most of your loft conversion floor space. Adjustable dumbbells instead of lots of individual sets, medicine balls and punching bags are all ideal options. Combine home gym mirrors, skylights or sun tunnels and light up your home gym: no one wants to work out where it’s dark and dingy.

For bookworms a home library is the ultimate reading nook and the right home library design ideas will make it a warm and welcoming one. Create a more traditional feel with upholstered armchairs in a deep jewel hue, perhaps in front of a wood burning fire for a new way to snuggle up with your favourite book. With home library shelving and book display think about ways to save space; make the most of low ceilings by using built in shelves. Use sheer and semi transparent blinds to give it the natural light it needs and don’t forget a good reading lamp.

A loft conversion can be the ideal place to work. For staying power, furniture comfort and support has to be a priority. An adjustable height home office desk that allows you to switch between sitting and standing is an increasingly popular option: the variety is great for posture and keeping your mind stimulated. Storage should also determine your furniture choice. Filing cabinets should be placed under desks for easy access and space saving, and make use of higher shelving to store less frequently used documents.

Light is sure to help concentration so aid productivity by installing day light bulbs for late nights, and try a blind such as a Venetian to filter bright daylight that can make screens hard to view. Add in some plants to your scheme; not only will it create a healthier environment but will relieve the ‘officeyness’. And you can you just get on with enjoying your commute in your pyjamas.

Inspired by these loft extension ideas? For blinds, shades and shutters that would be perfect for any extension, check out our product range.