Storage space in a home is like prime real estate — one of the hardest things to find. The challenges of a growing family and the ongoing accumulation of clutter mean many homes need more space. Instead of stopgap solutions like buying another box or hiding things in the cupboard, transforming your unused roof space may be just what the doctor ordered.
With up to 30 per cent capacity of a home lying dormant in the roof, an attic conversion can boost your storage and living space.
Older Architectural styles such as Edwardian or Victorian homes or Californian bungalows lend themselves perfectly to an attic transformation. It is the easy solution when home extensions are limited by the size of the block and moving is too expensive, as is often the case with young families.
Being close to schools and maintaining a quick commuting distance to work are some of the common reasons why people prefer not to leave their area. They love their home but just need some extra space to accommodate their growing family or hobby. Taking advantage of unused roof space creates more storage without taking away precious floor space. It can prove more cost-effective than moving house and also builds value into an existing property.
An attic conversion can have minimal impact on the daily routine of a home until the internal access attic ladder or bespoke staircase needs to be installed. Scaffolding is set up outside and flooring, wall panelling and windows are installed using access via the roof. This enables homeowners to continue living comfortably in the house, without the expense of renting storage facilities so often associated with a second-level renovation. It also reduces the number of tradespeople accessing the home so living conditions are unaffected and privacy is maintained.
To keep costs in check, be sure to research building companies that look after all aspects of the planning and construction process, including design work, engineering, permits, council approval, certification, building, management and site supervision. Some companies also source and manage any other tradespeople needed to complete the project, within an agreed time frame and budget.
When undertaking an attic conversion for living purposes it’s important to work with a business that has ongoing relationships with architects. A choice of architects allows homeowners to work with a professional who designs to both their architectural and personal style. Just like the perfect relationship, this will ensure the attic design respects the period of the property while also factoring in the functional needs of the residents.
When you add up all the costs involved with the addition of an entire new floor — including the relocation costs while the project is underway — a roof conversion is an affordable option, with similar long-term benefits to the overall property value.