Latest from Ideal Home in Conversions

Thought your garage was too small for conversion? According to the experts, there are lots of ways to transform even tiny spaces into useful new additions

Natasha Brinsmead — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:00:00 +0000

If you are considering converting your own garage, before getting too excited, it is important that you check it is big enough to make the whole project worthwhile – garages that came with older houses were often pretty compact and, in some cases, this could lead to difficulties.

For anyone who wants to add space to their home in a cost-effective way that doesn't involve the disruption of building a full-blown extension, a garage conversion is ideal. Not only does this type of project make fantastic use of what is often wasted space, it also adds value and usually won't require planning permission either.

That said, converting a garage isn't always straightforward. There are strict building regulations to adhere to and, if you plan on building above the garage to really maximise the new space, the foundations will need to be assessed.

If you are unsure whether you have enough space within your garage to make a conversion viable, this is everything you need to know before deciding to go ahead, as well as advice on how to really make the most of your new addition.

How big does a garage need to be for a conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/Photoword)

If you are dealing with a pretty modest, single garage – as opposed to a sprawling double design – you may well be questioning how worthwhile the cost of a garage conversion will be – but how small is too small?

'There is no strict minimum size for a garage conversion but, practically speaking, anything under between 12–14m² becomes difficult to make habitable while meeting building regulations standards once you account for insulation, final wall finishes, and adequate circulation space,' explains Zaeem Chaudhary, director of AC Design Solution. 'That said, even a small single garage can add real value if used as a home office, utility room, or home gym – uses that don't require the same floor area thresholds as a bedroom or living room would.'

'If your garage is at least 15m² then you will be able to convert it into a usable space, although there is no legal requirement when it comes to minimum sizes,' picks up Angelo Patrizi, founder and lead fitter at Nuova Home Improvements. 'The average size of a single garage in the UK is between 16-18m² – the perfect size for converting. We would always complete a layout survey and plan before allowing our clients to commit to converting a small garage footprint.'

How do you maximise space in a small garage conversion?

(Image credit: Higham Furniture)

Providing your garage will give you enough space to meet the required building regulations, what you use it for is largely up to you – but finding ways to maximise the space you have available should still be a priority if you want to ensure you are getting the most out of the money you are spending as well as adding value to your home.

Zaeem Chaudhary has a great idea for using the vertical space within a petite conversion. 'For small garages, the key is maximising ceiling height. Incorporating some mezzanine ideas can effectively double your usable floor area within the same footprint (you'll need a ceiling height of at least 4m for this to work.) However, you will need to check that the structural frame and floor loading have been designed accordingly – something your chosen designer should assess (we do this on every conversion project we carry out.)'

Angelo Patrizi has some more thoughts when it comes to getting the most out of an attached garage conversion. 'The most effective way to create an impact when converting a garage is to create an open-plan living space by removing the wall separating the garage and the adjacent room, as this opens up all kinds of possibilities.'

Can you convert just part of a garage?

(Image credit: Back to Front Exterior Design)

Where you have enough space to play with, it can be a good idea to convert just part of your garage to expand your home while retaining a portion for storage. One of the biggest garage conversion mistakes people make is to neglect to think through where they will store all the stuff that they once housed in this space.

'Converting just part of a garage is entirely viable and often makes sense where the homeowner wants to retain storage or parking,' explains Zaeem Chaudhary. 'A part-conversion also tends to be simpler from a planning perspective, as the external appearance changes less if you retain the garage doors rather than swap them for windows.'

This idea tends to be perfect where the garage conversion will be used for a utility or boot room, both spaces that benefit from having a door to outside.

Is it a good idea to add another storey to a small garage conversion?

Adding a storey on top of a garage conversion is the perfect way to extend without encroaching on garden space – ideal for anyone wanting to add a bedroom. It is actually very cost effective too when compared to extension costs.

That said, it will be more expensive than a simple single storey garage conversion, as Zaeem Chaudhary explains. 'In terms of cost, a two-storey extension above a garage is typically 40–60% more expensive than a single-storey equivalent, due to the additional structural requirements, staircase, and increased external envelope.

'However, the cost per square metre is often better value overall given the shared foundations and roof,' points out Zaeem.

FAQs

What are the best ways to use a small garage conversion?

There are lots of great ways to use a garage conversion – but in the case of smaller structures, in order to make a garage conversion worth it, do think through how the final space will work on a day-to-day basis, as well as how future buyers might view it.

'Compact garage conversions can be used for home offices, utility rooms or children’s playrooms,' suggests Angelo Patrizi. 'Many people think about converting a small garage into a separate dining room, but if you are considering this try to design the space so that it will still be useful to potential purchasers who might have no need for this kind of room – aim for a more multi-purpose space.'

When is a garage conversion a bad idea?

In some cases, garage conversions just don't make sense and it really does pay to consider this if you want to ensure you are not wasting money on something that won't truly add to your experience of living in your home – or appeal to potential buyers later down the line.

'Generally, you should not convert your garage into habitable space if you have no off-road parking and live in an area when on-road parking is already difficult – it could actually decrease the resale value of your house,' warns Angelo Patrizi.

'Additionally, if the garage structure requires a considerable amount of damp-proofing, extensive repairs or the ceiling height is less than 2.1m then the build costs will quickly escalate and your return on investment will become more unpredictable.'

While planning permission for garage conversions is not usually needed, there will be cases where you will need to make an application. If you live in a conservation area, in a listed building, have already used up your permitted development rights or are building a two-storey garage conversion, you may well need to get in touch with your local planning office before work begins.

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3 easy and practical ways to maximise natural light in a basement conversion – sidestep that drab dungeon feeling in favour of a light, bright space

Sarah Handley — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

To make a basement conversion feel like a real extension of the rest of your home, there is one key ingredient that needs to be factored in – natural light.

When it comes to how to convert a basement, you need to be aware that it's a complex process and so any provisions to bring in daylight need to be planned in from the outset. Not only can maximising sunlight make your converted space feel bigger and brighter, but it can also improve concentration levels and your mood, as well as boosting your sleep by regulating your circadian rhythm.

But thanks to a basement's subterranean location, access to natural light can be tricky. I spoke to the experts to find out about the options worth considering for conversions like this.

1. Add a lightwell

A lightwell can be anything from a narrow trench to a sunken garden, you can even create an internal lightwell that borrows light from the room above (Image credit: Future PLC)

Lightwells are vertical shafts built around a basement window that are designed to funnel natural light into the underground space. These can vary from a narrow trench to a sunken garden.

If excavating outside isn't possible, you can create an internal lightwell by making a hole in the floor of the room above and using obscured and toughened glass that can 'borrow' light and bring it down into the basement.

'Lightwells are a particularly popular solution for those seeking to increase the level of daylight in a basement space,' explains Shaun Cartwright from Aluprof Living.

'By excavating a trench outside of the basement wall, they introduce valuable daylight and create the opportunity for full-height glazing, which helps blur the boundary between the indoors and outdoors and makes the space feel less underground.'

Depending on the nature and placement of your lightwell, you can install a window that matches the rest of your property, a set of patio doors or even a rooflight.

2. Opt for patio doors

Patio doors can not only facilitate the ingress of natural light, but also maximise views of a sunken patio and provide additional ventilation (Image credit: Future)

Patio doors leading to a sunken garden are another great way to bring in loads of daylight and valuable fresh air, while also creating a striking connection with the outdoors. 'As well as increasing the flow of natural light, they introduce a real sense of openness, turning what might otherwise feel like a dark, enclosed space into a bright and functional living area,' explains Shaun.

In terms of style, sliding doors will maximise any views, while bifold doors will open up further to create a seamless indoor/outdoor space.

If you don't need more than a single door, a steel frame patio door, surrounded by fixed glazing, will look stylish from the inside and make the most of the natural light.

3. Consider internal glazing

Adding glazed partitions will help natural light flow through the basement, while still offering a sense of separation and privacy (Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

If your basement is going to have separate rooms rather than an open-plan layout, then you could find yourself with a series of dark rooms that have no access to natural light.

However, by incorporating some internal glazing, you could achieve the separate spaces you are after without compromising on light.

This could be doors with glass panels, glazed partitions or internal windows that will allow light to flood the space. For situations where privacy is still paramount – for example, if you want to use your basement as a guest bedroom and bathroom – then obscured glass or high-level clerestory windows could be an ideal solution.

FAQs

Do you need planning permission to add a light well or patio doors in a basement conversion?

Whether or not you need planning permission for a basement conversion, will depend on the scope of your plans, where you live, and whether any of your alterations will be visible from the road.

If you plan to add a light well, a set of patio doors or a window, to your basement conversion and it won't be visible from the road, you may be able to do this within your permitted development rights. However, if you live in a designated area, like a National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, your PD rights may have been restricted or removed, which means you would need to apply for planning permission to make this change.

Planning rules are notoriously complex, and can vary between local authorities, so it's vital that you check with your local planning office, or a planning consultant to check what consent is required before you start.

To make sure your subterranean room is comfortable all year round, you also need to know how to insulate a basement so it meets the requirements of the building regulations.

How to insulate a basement – your options explained, plus how much it’s likely to cost

Sarah Handley — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Creating a space that is warm and dry is absolutely essential if you want to turn your basement into a usable room. That's why it's so important to get your basement insulation right.

Nailing this step when converting your basement can also mean your choice of heating can work more efficiently, saving money on your energy bills.

So whether your basement ideas include adding a guest bedroom, home office or games room, or even if you just plan on using your basement for storage or a utility room, follow these expert tips to correctly insulate the space.

What's the best way to insulate a basement?

(Image credit: Future PLC)

There are a few different options when it comes to insulating a basement, depending on the specifics of your project, what your budget is, and whether it's a step you plan on doing on a DIY basis.

Unless you are excavating a new basement, it's unlikely you'll be adding your insulation to the outer walls, so you'll need to add it to the inside.

'You can use both rigid foam boards and spray foam to unfinished walls (once any pre-existing moisture issues have been taken care of),' says Paul Kerr from Beatsons Building Supplies. 'Foam boards are probably the most common option as they cost a little less than the foam, are long-lasting and are excellent at resisting moisture.

'Insulated panels are a bit higher in price than most other techniques but are the fastest solution as they have a plasterboard layer built in, allowing for a quicker installation process. Unlike fibreglass and some other traditional insulation materials, the spray foam and foam boards aren't prone to sagging, so they are probably the better choice for a long-lasting effect.

'If you're dead set on using the traditional methods of fibreglass and mineral wool, just be sure that they are paired with a vapour barrier, or they'll be prone to mold. You should also make sure they aren't placed directly onto concrete as they will absorb moisture from it.'

Before you tackle the insulation, you need to make sure that the basement is effectively waterproofed to prevent the insulation from being compromised.

Why is it so important to insulate a basement correctly?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Correctly insulating your basement is essential if you want to create a space that is comfortable to use all year round.

'The last thing you want after finishing up a basement conversion is to spot damp, mold or mildew in the room,' continues Paul Kerr. 'Insulation should always be your priority when converting a basement space. Due to their location underneath the house and a common lack of windows, basement rooms are prone to damp. A rise in damp can make a room feel colder, smell stuffy, cause structural issues, reduce the house's value, and add to heat loss - making a house less energy efficient.'

You'll also want to make sure your basement is correctly ventilated too.

How much does it cost to insulate a basement?

The price to insulate a basement will depend on the type of insulation you opt for, the size of your basement, and how complex the project is. I asked the experts to break down the price so you can factor it in to your overall basement conversion costs.

'Rigid foam boards usually start at around £15-£17 per board, though you can find some for as low as £7,' says Paul Kerr. 'Yet for the best moisture repellent, you should look at XPS panels, otherwise known as extruded polystyrene panels. These cost around £40-£50, depending on the size and depth of the panel, and save on labour costs as they have a layer of plasterboard, meaning you don't need to get any fresh plaster in.

'The price of insulation for a 50m3 basement would come to around £3500, depending on the material. If there's a need to concrete the floor, this will be in the region of £1500-£3000 for the same sized space.'

FAQs

Can I insulate a basement myself?

Whether you can (or should) insulate a basement yourself comes down to the type of insulation you need, and your DIY competency.

Foam boards would be the easiest to install on a DIY basis, as they are easy to cut to size and lightweight enough to move. At the other end of the scale, installing spray foam insulation should be left to a professional to ensure it's done safely and effectively.

If you do want to install your own basement insulation, make sure the space if effectively waterproofed first. This should be done by a professional, rather than on a DIY basis.

Before you start on your conversion plans, make sure you're fully aware of what you should know before you convert a basement.

Why basement waterproofing is 'now as much about climate resilience as it is about comfort,' and how to get it right

Natasha Brinsmead — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Waterproofing a basement is arguably the most important thing you can do with a subterranean space.

And it's not just something that you need to do if you plan on carrying out a basement conversion to create a new habitable space – even if you only want to use it for storage, you will want to ensure it remains dry and free from damp and mould.

There are several methods when it comes to basement waterproofing and the process you choose needs to be suited to your particular basement – what is suitable for one structure won't necessarily work for another.

We asked the experts to explain the various options for waterproofing a basement properly, as well as how much to budget.

Why is basement waterproofing important?

(Image credit: Future)

Whatever your basement ideas involve, waterproofing is crucial – for several reasons.

'Waterproofing a basement isn't just about comfort – it protects your home’s structure and your health,' picks up Paula Higgins, CEO of HomeOwners Alliance. 'Without it, hydrostatic pressure (water in the soil around your home) can push moisture, or even water, through cracks in walls and floors, leading to dampness, mould, rot and potentially serious structural damage.

'Basement waterproofing is no longer a “nice-to-have” – it’s becoming an essential step in protecting homes against the UK’s changing weather patterns,' continues Paula. 'Extreme rainfall means more water pushing against your basement walls and floors, increasing the chance of leaks and dampness.

'Whether you plan to convert your basement into living space or simply want to safeguard it, waterproofing is now as much about climate resilience as it is about comfort.'

How do you waterproof a basement?

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

There are several methods that can be used to waterproof a basement and in some cases this might be determined by basement conversion building regulations.

'Basement waterproofing can be done in a number of ways,' explains architect Tina Patel of Architect Your Home. 'You have Type A, B and C and how you tackle it should be considered in terms of your initial outlay – some systems will not last as long and result in the process being needing to be redone after five or 10 years – so although this may sound cheaper at outset, it is unlikely to be in long run.'

These methods of waterproofing are also known by other terms.

Type A: Tanking

Type A is also known as 'tanking' and is a barrier system.

'With tanking, a bonded cement layer is applied to the walls and floors to withstand external water pressure,' explains Paula Higgins.

This waterproof layer forms a barrier between the basement and any groundwater surrounding the structure. It can be applied to the internal or external surface and even between floor and wall surfaces – something known as 'sandwiched waterproofing'. For double protection, waterproofing materials can be applied to both the internal and external walls.

Pros:

Straightforward solution
Can be applied to existing structures

Cons:

If not done properly, leaks can occur
Not best in areas where there is a high water table where the water pressure can push through any faults in the system

Type B: Structurally integral waterproofing

This is a method most commonly used for new basements and is carried out during the building process, where a moisture-impervious concrete is applied to all surfaces.

Pros:

The structure itself is the waterproof barrier so no additional barriers are required
Long-lasting and robust

Cons:

More expensive
Hard to retrofit
Poor installation can lead to weakness in the system

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

Type C: Cavity drainage system

Cavity drainage systems are often considered one of the best ways of waterproofing a basement. Rather than preventing water from entering your basement through barriers, they safely channel it away into drainage channels that then take it into a sump and pump system. Finally, the water is taken to an external drain.

'Type C involves a cavity barrier system and is often preferred as it allows water in but can mitigate its impact on the surrounding vicinity,' further explains Tina Patel.

The great thing about these systems is that they are easy to retrofit and can even be installed in basements where a previous waterproofing system has failed.

Pros:

Easy to install
Can be combined with other waterproofing systems
Easy to access for inspection

Cons:

Failed sump pumps can cause issues
Channels need to be maintained to keep them blockage-free

Can I waterproof a basement myself?

Although some people do attempt to waterproof a basement on a DIY basis, this really is not something that any of the experts I spoke to recommend – in fact it usually leads to expensive and damaging basement conversion mistakes.

'It is specialist work and not something that should be done by your main contractor,' points out Tina Patel, who goes on to point out that it is wise to use the services of a Certificated Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW).

'A CSSW will consider the risks involved with water ingress and consider how to mitigate these,' advises Tina. 'Some suppliers have internal CSSW teams although, equally, you can engage an independent design team – just ensure that all respective parties have insurance.

'You should also hire a team that can provide insurance backed warranties – this means that if they go bust you would still have some protection,' adds Tina.

FAQs

How much does it cost to waterproof a basement?

There are so many factors that can influence basement waterproofing costs that it is hard to give an exact figure.

'Estimating costs is notoriously difficult as there are so many factors to consider,' picks up Paula Higgins. 'The company will likely need to do a survey first.

'As a general guide, expect to pay £100- £120 /m2 to waterproof walls and floors. A small basement (4m x 5 m) could cost £8,000, compared to £17,500 for a larger 6m x 7m basement.'

How long does it take to waterproof a basement?

Of all the things you need to know before converting a basement, average timescales is one. The length of time it takes to waterproof a basement very much depends on the type of structure in question and the system being employed.

'Simple conversions using a cavity membrane plus a sump pump system can be completed in 2–3 weeks, including sump excavation and pump installation,' explains Paula Higgins.

'Major projects – such as lowering floor levels, underpinning, or excavating new basement spaces – are more time-intensive and costly and typically take several months.'

You'll also need to know how to insulate a basement and ensure your basement is adequately ventilated to keep it comfortable and dry.

How much does a basement conversion cost? I asked the pros what you can expect to pay, and what factors will send the price soaring

Natasha Brinsmead — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The question of how much does a basement conversion cost is one of the first to ask if you are considering this as a way of adding space to your home.

Converting a basement is a fantastic route to gaining additional habitable rooms without extending outwards, using what you already have. That said, it can be a complex project, meaning costs can soon add up.

I reached out to the experts to gather all the information you need in order to budget effectively if this is a job you are considering undertaking.

How much does a basement conversion cost?

(Image credit: Future)

There are many things that can affect what a basement conversion costs, making it hard to give exact figures. That said, the experts we spoke were able to provide advice on how much to budget, taking into account your individual basement ideas.

'Basements are great way to unlock potential space, but are inherently expensive,' explains architect Tina Patel of Architect Your Home. 'Headline costs are based on a lot of factors making it tricky to say exactly how much they cost without a diligent overview of the project.'

'The average cost of a basement conversion is very broad – between £750 to £3,000 per sqm, depending on a few factors,' picks up Andy Simms of MyBuilder.com.

However, once you factor in everything from surveys, preparation and waterproofing to draining and finishing touches such as decoration and fitting out, costs are likely to be far higher than this.

'You will be looking upwards of £6,000 per sqm,' advises Tina Patel.

Basement cost breakdown

Lowering floor levels and reinforcing existing cellar: £1,700-£2,200/m2.
Waterproofing: £100- £120 /m2 to waterproof walls and floors.
Installing a lightwell/external access points: £6,000 - £10,000.
Planning fees (in some cases): From £200.
Building regs application: From £750.
Party wall agreements (if needed): From £1,250.

What can affect the cost of converting a basement?

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

Just as when building an extension, in order to get a clearer idea of how much an individual basement conversion will cost, it is important to consider the factors that can influence this.

Location

The area in which you live will play a large part in your final costs.

'Central London basements will have additional costs involved with elements such as excavation and soil removal,' explains Tina Patel.

'Proximity to other buildings could also affect costs as it will impact the protective measures needed and potentially require a Party Wall Agreement.'

Waterproofing system

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

When it comes to how to waterproof a basement, there are several routes and the one you choose will certainly affect costs.

'Ensuring the correct waterproofing is in place for a new habitable space will mitigate any future risk of leaks and damp,' explains Andy Simms.

'The cost for this job is very broad, and can vary between £1,000 and £10,000, depending on factors such as the size of your basement, the material used, the method of waterproofing chosen, whether your tradesperson spots any previously unseen damage, and so on.'

'The type of waterproofing system used will need to be considered in relation to the local water table and what is needed from the space,' adds Tina Patel. This is a crucial step, and skipping it is one of the worst basement conversion mistakes you can make.

Basement type

The condition of your existing basement will have a role to play in conversion costs, but so too will whether or not you are dealing with an existing space or starting from scratch, excavating an entirely new subterranean level.

The intended use of the basement

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

How you plan on using your newly converted space will also affect how much it costs you to complete.

'Using it as an extra bathroom or kitchen will require more work because of the materials and finishing required,' points out Andy Sims.

When using your basement as a kitchen, bathroom or even utility room, you will also need to give even more thought to basement ventilation.

What other factors will affect the cost of a basement conversion?

In addition to these strongly influential factors, there are other elements to a basement conversion that can push prices up. Even tasks such as applying for basement building regs approval will add to costs.

Planning and regs fees: While planning permission often won't be required, in some cases it will and building regs approval will most certainly be needed.
Surveys: In many cases, a structural report and site condition survey will be essential.
Party Wall Agreement: If the walls of any neighbouring properties are affected by your conversion, you may need to appoint a party wall surveyor and have an agreement put in place.
Services: While you will probably already have services such as water and gas running to your house, they will need to be extended into your basement, depending on its final intended usage. In some cases, the diversion of services might be required too. 'We have had instances where a disused large mains sewer was uncovered that was not on any records,' reveals Tina Patel. 'This couldn’t simply be diverted and utility providers had to get involved.'
Fire escape provision: Depending on your home, you may need to budget in fire safety strategies. 'How you can safely leave a basement needs careful consideration and often will involve a misting system or fire curtains unless you can get safe access to the outside from within the space,' explains Tina Patel.

How much does it cost to convert a basement into a bedroom?

The intended use of your basement conversion will have a huge effect on your final costs. In the case of basement bedrooms, costs are likely to be lower than than for some other kinds of spaces, such as kitchens, where the provision of certain services and fit-outs will be required.

You are likely to be looking at the lower end of the price scale – between £750 - £1,400, although if the floor needs to be lowered or underpinning is required, these costs will obviously rise.

It is also worth considering that a basement bedroom will usually entail bathroom costs for the space to be practical.

How much does it cost to convert a basement into a kitchen

(Image credit: Siobhan Doran )

Creating a new kitchen within a basement conversion is a hugely popular project, particularly amongst owners of period properties, keen for an open plan kitchen that can open out onto a newly excavated terrace area.

That said, for all their benefits, kitchen basements are most certainly not cheap to create. Everything from natural light, to ventilation methods will see prices soar and that is before you even get into kitting the kitchen out with appliances and units.

If your basement floor requires digging out to ensure adequate headroom, you can expect costs of at least £3,750 per sq. m for the conversion alone. You will then need to add the cost of a new kitchen on top of this.

How much does it cost to excavate a new basement?

If you currently have no basement to convert but are considering creating a new space beneath your home, costs are going to be considerably higher.

Once again, it is difficult to give an exact figure here but you should expect costs of between £2,100-£4,000 per sq. m when underpinning and digging out a new basement.

Will a basement conversion add value?

If these costs have left you wondering whether a basement conversion is a good idea, you'll be pleased to learn that, done well, and in accordance with the building regulations, this is a project that can add considerable value to a property.

'With house prices becoming increasingly more expensive, moving home when you need space is not an option for many Brits,' points out Andy Simms. 'Because of this, many residents are converting their basement, giving their home more space at a reduced cost.'

Basement conversions typically add between 10%-20% to a house's value, depending on their location and the specification of the finished project.

FAQs

Is it cheaper to convert a loft or a basement?

As another way of adding space without extending, many homeowners are keen to compare the cost of loft conversions to basements.

Loft conversions cost from around £50,000 for a simple rooflight conversion, rising to around £70,000 for a mansard conversion.

In terms of cost per sq. m, loft conversions tend to work out much cheaper than basements which can average at about £100,000.

Looking for other methods of adding space to your home without extending? Sometimes, simply removing internal walls or bringing in more natural light is all that's needed.

'Most issues we see in basements come down to poor or no ventilation,' reveal the experts — here's how to get it right

Natasha Brinsmead — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Getting basement ventilation just right is equally as important in an area that is going to be used solely for storage as it is for a new habitable space.

Basement conversions are one of the best ways of gaining extra living space without extending the footprint of a house, but there are a few key elements to get right if you want this type of project to be a success – good ventilation being one of them.

There are several different ventilation methods for basements to choose from so I asked the experts to explain how each works and what situation they are most suitable for.

How to ventilate a basement used for storage

(Image credit: Future PLC)

There are several different ways you can ventilate a basement. The method you choose is partially dependent on your basement ideas. If you don't plan on using it as habitable space, things will be a little simpler.

'If it’s just a storage area and it stays bone dry, you might get away with passive vents,' explains Michael Zohouri, the founder of Pyramid Eco. 'That usually means air bricks or through-wall vents at opposite ends of the room to create some cross-ventilation. It’s low maintenance and doesn’t need electricity. But it relies on natural airflow, which can be unpredictable in a basement.

'When there’s no wind or it’s freezing outside, it doesn't move much air and can bring in cold drafts.'

How to ventilate a basement for habitable space

(Image credit: Future)

If, like many others, you have decided to use your basement as additional living space, the ventilation provision you put in place will need to be a little more involved. Getting this wrong is one of the most common basement conversion mistakes.

'If your basement conversion is going to be used as a living space, then ventilation becomes non-negotiable. Otherwise, you’re asking for trouble,' warns Michael Zohouri.

'There are a few options – the right one depends on what you're doing with the space,' continues Michael. 'You’ve got extractor fans, heat recovery systems (MVHR), or positive input ventilation (PIV). Each has its pros and cons.'

'In the UK, basement ventilation typically falls into two types: passive and mechanical,' picks up Farook Member, director and home improvement expert at QS Supplies. 'Passive methods, such as air bricks or ventilation shafts, can of course get some air in and out, but usually not enough for sealed or converted basements.'

Passive stack ventilation

This is a natural – as opposed to mechanical – method of ventilation.

Passive stack ventilation relies on the natural upward movement of warm air to create airflow. Vents are placed at different heights within a building, which allows warm air to rise up and leave the space via higher vents, while fresh, cooler air is brought in through lower vents.

This method is especially effective in spaces with high ceilings or where there are significant temperature differences between the inside and out.

Extractor fans

Mechanical extractor fans, exactly like bathroom extractor fans or those found above a cooker, can be used to draw stale, moist air out of a basement.

'Extractor fans are good for removing moist air from bathrooms or utility areas, but they don’t bring in fresh air unless paired with trickle vents,' explains Michael Zohouri.

'Part F of UK Building Regulations specifically requires that all habitable rooms, including basements, must have an adequate level of ventilation,' adds Farook member. 'If natural ventilation is not achieving the required air change rates, then mechanical solutions will be necessary.'

Mechanical extract ventilation (MEV) systems

These systems are ducted and take air that is full of moisture up and out, while bringing fresh air in through trickle vents and air bricks. This would be a good option for basement kitchens.

'For most UK properties, the best route is mechanical ventilation, particularly for basements that are being used as living spaces,' says Farook Member.

In the case of MEV systems, these are a good way of addressing indoor air quality issues, controlling humidity and simply improving overall comfort. Additionally, these systems often have energy-efficient features, such as variable speed fans.

Mechanical extract ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR)

If you plan on using your basement to add space without extending, creating a completely new habitable storey, it is highly recommended that you consider installing MVHR.

These systems extract stale, moist-laden air and introduce fresh, filtered air back in through a heat exchanger. By extracting the heat from the air, none is lost.

'In higher-spec jobs, I often recommend MVHR,' says Michael Zohouri. 'It's a bigger investment, but it gives you constant fresh air, removes stale air, and recovers heat in the process. It’s the best option if you're converting the basement into a habitable space. It also helps with humidity and air quality, which people really notice.'

Positive input ventilation (PIV)

PIV systems are another type of mechanical ventilation and are perfect if you are looking for ways to prevent mould.

PIV units create positive pressure that displaces damp air through either natural or ducted openings.

'A unit in the loft gently pushes air through the house, including down to the basement if ducted correctly,' adds Michael Zohouri. 'It works well in some older homes where you need a whole-house solution, but it’s not suitable for every layout.'

'PIV systems are easier and much more affordable to install than MVHR,' says Farook Member. 'Plus they work well in older properties where some air flow is present.'

Which type of basement ventilation is best?

(Image credit: Ca'Pietra)

This very much depends on what you intend to use the space for, your budget and its current condition. One of the other things you need to know before converting a basement is the building regs requirements for ventilation.

For example, a space for storage only might be fine with a dehumidifier and natural ventilation, while one with a kitchen or utility will require some form of mechanical ventilation.

Basements are required to meet minimum air exchange rates in order to maintain indoor air quality. These rates vary depending on usage and space size.

'The biggest mistake I see is leaving ventilation until the end,' says Michael Michael Zohouri. 'By then, ducting is hard to route and the options become limited. It’s far easier and cheaper to get it right from day one, when you’re still framing out the space.'

FAQs

Why is basement ventilation important?

(Image credit: Andrew Beasley. Design: Gregory Phillips Architects)

Alongside basement waterproofing, one of the most important elements of any conversion like this ventilation, and so it is crucial to understand why it needs to be done.

'Most issues we see in basements come down to poor or no ventilation,' reveals Michael Zohouri. 'If you’re using the space regularly, it needs fresh air, just like any other room in the house. Otherwise, you'll end up dealing with condensation, stale air or mould issues.'

There are other reasons why proper ventilation is important too. Not only does it remove stale air, but it also helps to maintain consistent temperatures, meaning the energy you use to heat and cool the area is reduced.

Additionally, basement conversion building regs also specify minimum ventilation rates – plus, without it, you risk radon seeping into the space, posing serious health risks.

What are the building regs for basement ventilation?

There are several different sections of the building regs that relate to basements, but when it comes to basement ventilation, you'll need to pay attention to Part F.

'Part F of the building regulations requires 'adequate means of ventilation' for any habitable space,' explains Michael Zohouri. 'If you’re converting a basement into a bedroom, bathroom or office, that definitely includes mechanical ventilation. Air bricks won’t cut it if you're putting in a bedroom or shower room.'

Will a dehumidifier help with ventilation?

Dehumidifiers are appliances that are designed to remove excess moisture from the air and maintain stable humidity levels.

They can help prevent damp, mould and condensation – some of the best dehumidifiers even feature laundry drying modes.

What dehumidifiers don't do is introduce fresh air back into the room.

You'll need to factor ventilation into your basement conversion costs, so make sure you speak to an expert about the right choice for your budget. Making sure you know how to insulate a basement will also ensure it is comfortable and dry year-round.

I inherited a garage conversion, but it's far from perfect – this is what I wish the previous owners had done differently

Sarah Handley — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0000

I've spent more than a decade writing about how homeowners can add space to their homes extending or converting underused areas, but what I find rarely gets mentioned is what happens when you move into a house that has already had the work done.

My house had undergone some remodelling before I moved in, including a small extension at the back of the garage, walls had been removed to open up the kitchen into a spacious kitchen diner, and a garage conversion to a utility room, with a small WC, and a home office.

And there's a lot to love about it. It's very handy having a second toilet in the house, especially when guests come to stay, I adore not having the washing machine and tumble dryer in the open-plan kitchen diner, and I'm fortunate to be able to have a designated home office, that keeps my work clutter separate from the rest of my home.

However, after living with the conversion for more than a decade, there are a few things that I wish the previous owners had done differently when they had the work done, and that I'd love to change (I'll add it to my very long list of desired home improvements).

1. I wish the WC was bigger

(Image credit: Future/Sarah Handley)

The WC is carved out of a corner of the utility room, which takes up the rear half of what would have been the garage. It has a macerator toilet and a small sink, but to me it feels unnecessarily small.

Its size means that the sink is also really small (I think the previous owners designed it with small children in mind), but for adult hands, it's all too easy for water to splash out of the tiny bowl and on to the floor, or up the wall, no matter how carefully you try to wash your hands. The tap also sits in the centre of the bowl, which doesn't help. Changing to a space-saving sink, like this one from Victorian Plumbing (£59.95) is on my wish list.

There's also more than enough space in the utility room, that you could sacrifice some for a larger WC, and bigger sink without any detriment.

2. I wish there was more natural light

The office is flooded with natural light thanks to the large window, but that light struggles to reach the utility room thanks to the door between the two (Image credit: Future/Sarah Handley)

A danger with adding space, or converting underused areas into usable square footage, is that if natural light isn't prioritised in the design process, you can be left with dark zones — and that's exactly what happened with the garage conversion I inherited.

There is a large window in the office, which brings in loads of light while I'm working, which is lovely. However, due to the kitchen extension that sits at the back of what was the garage (that I think was done way before the garage conversion), any light from the back of the house struggles to get through to the utility room.

Fortunately, the utility room being a utility room, it's not used that often so the fact that it's a bit dark and dingey doesn't affect me that much. But, I do wish that a openable roof window (either a rooflight or lantern) had been added to the ceiling to maximise daylight and allow for better ventilation when needed.

3. I wish there had been more thought given to heating

My biggest bugbear about the garage conversion is that there is no heating in there. While this is rarely problematic in the utility part, it has meant chilly trips to the WC, and some cold fingers while working in my home office.

Fortunately, I have one of the best oil-filled radiators that keeps me warm while working in the colder months, but my preference would definitely have been a radiator or even electric underfloor heating instead.

4. I wish they had been more creative about the energy meters

Access panels for the gas and electric meters are hidden behind canvas prints in the home office (Image credit: Future/Sarah Handley)

Like many homes, the gas and electric meters for my home were located in the garage, which meant provisions needed to be made so they could still be accessed once the conversion was complete. In some cases, you can get the meters moved, but this is expensive, so I'm not surprised that the previous owners opted to have them boxed in.

A stud wall was built around them, with two plastic panels added to allow for access, but the panels are ugly and frustrating to open (I have to bang on it with a fist to cause it to pop out and then bang on it again to fix it back into place).

Since having a smart meter fitted, I haven't add to access the meters that often and so I've hung two canvases over the panels to hide how naff they look. But the two meters aren't at the same height, and so neither are the panels, and my pictures hang at seemingly odd heights.

In an ideal world, the meters would have been boxed in a way that could be disguised or incorporated into storage, so that it felt more intentional rather than haphazard.

If you are thinking of converting your garage...

Of course, if you are planning on converting your garage, you should design it so that it suits your needs and wants. But after inheriting a garage conversion that isn't quite right, there's definitely a couple of pieces of really useful advice to be had for those planning on undertaking a project like this.

If you are planning to sell up and move in the near future, then try to think about what would appeal to potential buyers, and importantly, what could put them off. This will have a direct effect on how much value your garage conversion will add.
If you don't plan on moving, then try to think of what your needs might be in the future rather than what they are right now. Work with a designer who can advise on the best way to futureproof your space.

It'll also be important to dodge these common garage conversion mistakes so that your new space is a success for both you and those who may come after.

This one basement conversion mistake could leave your space completely uninhabitable, say pros, and should be avoided at all costs

Sarah Handley — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Converting an existing cellar into a room can transform how you live in your home, creating extra living space without needing to add more with an extension. But subterranean conversions like this are complex, and there's one major basement conversion mistake that should be avoided at all costs — failing to address the issue of water.

If you want to get the most out of your basement ideas, then ensuring your basement is waterproof and well-ventilated is essential. I asked industry experts what can happen if you get this crucial step wrong, and how to ensure you get it right.

What can happen if you don't waterproof a basement correctly?

Ensuring your basement is correctly waterproofed and well-ventilated is vital if you plan on turning it into living space (Image credit: Future)

There's a lot involved when it comes to how to convert a basement, which means it can be expensive. But it is crucial not to skip any steps that deal with water and moisture if you want your project to be a success, especially when the consequences can be dire.

'Basements are often not designed with water resistance in mind, and their lack of ventilation (since most have no windows) makes them especially prone to damp and mould,' explains Andy Kille of Andy Kille Building and Property Maintenance, a verified Checkatrade member. 'This can damage walls, floors, and ceilings, while also creating health risks. A common weak spot is the joint where floors and walls meet, where rainwater or melted snow can seep through and cause long-term problems.'

Craig Dean, residential services director at Geobear, adds. 'Water ingress softens the surrounding ground, which is therefore less capable of supporting the base walls, and it can even wash out soil around the foundations. Over time, that can lead to cracks, structural movement and subsidence. We often get called in when homeowners notice sticking doors or uneven floors above a basement, only to discover the underlying issue was water entering the soil around the property. The costs and disruption of fixing that later are much greater than waterproofing right from the start.'

How can you make sure you waterproof your basement properly?

This basement kitchen diner keeps damp and mould at bay thanks to proper water ingress prevention measures (Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

As one of the core things you need to consider when converting a basement, ensuring your conversion is correctly waterproofed and ventilated is paramount, especially when neglecting this step can leave the space uninhabitable and cost more to remedy than it did to do the conversion in the first place. 'Waterproofing is not the stage to cut corners. It is a one-time investment that protects every other part of your conversion,' explains Thomas Oldham, Co-Founder of UK Construction Blog.

So how do you ensure this step is completely properly? 'Factor water protection into your plans from the start,' advises Andy Kille. 'Consult a waterproofing specialist early on to identify vulnerabilities, and consider a damp survey (around £300) if the space hasn’t been used before. These insights will guide your choices, whether that means using a waterproof membrane, sealer treatments, or specialist materials like damp-proof paint.'

Checking the ground surrounding the basement can also help ensure your basement stays dry and liveable. Craig adds: 'A good basement conversion will involve a structural survey to check soil conditions and water tables, as well as a robust waterproofing system such as cavity membranes or tanking. Taking a holistic approach and planning waterproofing, and contingency measures, into the design process means the basement remains dry, structurally sound and liveable for decades to come.'

When it comes to the waterproofing itself, quality materials and installation is essential. 'Choose a proven waterproofing system and have it installed by specialists who understand basement environments,' says Thomas. 'This usually means using a cavity drain membrane or a full tanking system that meets BS 8102 standards for below-ground waterproofing. Involve a qualified surveyor or structural waterproofing designer early in the project to ensure the right system is specified.'

Meeting the building regulations for basement conversions will ensure your new space is built to last.

Should I convert my garage or build an extension? I asked design experts about the pros and cons and how to tell which is better

Sophie Warren-Smith — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Have you got a growing family and space is feeling tight? Wondering how to feel less cramped without moving? You might find yourself weighing up a garage conversion and an extension to ease those space pressures.

Converting a garage that's only used for storing things you rarely need, Could be a great way to make that existing space work harder for your home. Another bonus is that it won't eat up any garden space.

On the other hand, building an extension will offer more versatility as it can be bigger than a pre-determined garage footprint (even over two storeys) and you can have more control about the positioning.

Both options have pros and cons, which we'll explore here to help you determine which is the best option for your needs and budget.

Is a garage conversion a better idea than an extension?

(Image credit: Future)

Whether a garage conversion is a better idea than an extension will ultimately depend on what you want to achieve with the extra space and how much you have to spend. But it's useful to understand the pros and cons of each route to help inform your decision.

Pros of a garage conversion

There are plenty of reasons to bring your garage conversion ideas to life:

Uses the existing footprint
Can usually be done under Permitted Development
Quicker and usually cheaper to complete than building an extension
Doesn't sacrifice garden space

According to Lisa Hensby of Lisa Hensby Interior Design & Build Studio, it's not always about building outwards. 'A garage conversion can actually be a brilliant alternative to a full-blown extension especially if you're looking for something quicker, more budget-friendly and a little less disruptive. One of the biggest perks? You're working with what's already there. That means lower labour costs, fewer materials and a generally smoother ride from start to finish.'

'Another win is that you don’t have to sacrifice your garden in the process. For lots of homeowners – especially in city settings where green space is gold, that’s a massive bonus,' says Lisa. .

Caroline Milns, head of interior design at Zulufish agrees, 'A garage conversion offers a refined way to unlock the full potential of your home, providing adaptable space that integrates effortlessly with the existing layout. Whether reimagined as a home office, guest suite, or utility room, it delivers functional versatility while enhancing day-to-day living. Beyond standalone use, a garage can be thoughtfully incorporated into the core of the home, such as extending a kitchen to create an open-plan living area.'

Cons of a garage conversion

The size and location is pre-determined
If foundations need underpinning it can be expensive
Adding a toilet or shower room can also increase costs
If you use your garage for parking or storage, you will need to find an alternative solution
Not all garages are suitable for conversion.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Fraser Marr)

Pros of an extension

While your extension ideas can be more disruptive than a garage conversion, there are some serious benefits that shouldn't be discounted:

You can add more space than with a garage conversion
You have the option to add space upstairs too, with a two storey extension
More design freedom
No loss of parking or storage space.

'While garage conversions have their perks, sometimes an extension really is the better shout, especially if you're after that full flexibility,' suggests Lisa. 'With an extension, you've got so much more freedom to design exactly what you need, whether that’s a bigger kitchen-diner, a statement living space, or a dreamy garden room that floods with natural light.'

Lisa adds: 'A well-planned extension can be a real asset when it comes to adding value. You're increasing your square footage in a way that feels intentional and enhances the flow of the house, which buyers love. So, if you’ve got the space and the budget, it can be a really rewarding investment.'

Cons of an extension

Will usually cost more and take longer than a garage conversion
You will have to sacrifice some outdoor space
Depending on what you want to build and where you live, you may have to seek planning permission.

How to tell which is the right option for you?

(Image credit: Future/Holly Jolliffe)

There isn't a one size fits all answer to whether an extension or garage conversion is better. It really does depend on how much space you want to create, how much outside space you have and, most importantly, your budget.

'As with any extension project, the decision ultimately depends on how the space is currently used, or how you plan to use it,' advises Emily Pickett, design consultant at Kitchens by Holloways. 'A garage conversion can be a smart solution if the resulting footprint provides sufficient usable space. However, if the converted garage doesn’t meet your space needs, a rear extension might be the better option.'

Also while a garage conversion may seem the easier option, it's not without its complexities. Emily explains, 'While a garage conversion can be more cost-effective than a full extension, it’s not necessarily a simple undertaking. To make the space habitable, you'll need to fully insulate it, potentially knock down walls, and address structural adjustments. If natural light is a priority, you'll also need to consider the addition of suitable glazing.'

A good place to start is to work out your budget and list what you want to achieve – do you simply need one new room and don't use the garage anyway? Or would you like to keep the garage for your car and or storage and open up your kitchen and extend into the garden?

'Every project is unique and choosing between a garage conversion or a new-build extension depends on a client’s individual needs, budget, and the character of the property itself,' explains Caroline.

'Where a garage is underutilised, converting it can be a faster, more cost-effective solution that integrates well into the existing footprint. We always consider practicalities too – such as ensuring ample, well-planned storage. However, if a client requires more substantial space or intends to significantly alter the home’s flow and structure, a bespoke extension may be the better path forward.'

Is it worth doing both?

(Image credit: Future PLC / Colin Poole)

If you can't decide between the two, you can always combine the two.

Lisa explains: 'If your home’s feeling a bit tight on space, lacking natural light, or just not flowing the way you need it to, combining a garage conversion with an extension (and maybe a clever internal remodel while you're at it) can completely transform how your home works and feels.'

This isn't a budget option, but if you're considering staying put for years to come and want to add value as well as space, it is worth considering

'This kind of full-scale rethink can make everything feel more cohesive and purpose-built. You get the best of both worlds – extra living space, smarter layout, better light – and it sets you up beautifully for the long term,' adds Lisa.

Before you commit, it's worthwhile comparing an extension to a loft conversion to see which is the better option for your home.

Can I convert my garage into a gym? There are 7 rules you need to follow to create the ultimate home workout space

Rebecca Foster — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

A garage is typically one of the most underused spaces in the home, often becoming a gloomy area to hide household clutter you want to keep out of the way. But can you convert your garage into a gym to make better use of the space?

If you’re looking to maximise the square footage of your property without doing an extension, converting your garage represents a smart way to make the most of the space you already have. And there are loads of garage conversion ideas to help you decide how best to utilise this potential. If your goal is to save time on commuting to the gym, it might be that you’ve already considered transforming your garage into a home exercise suite.

Here, we take a closer look at how to determine whether your garage is a suitable candidate to convert into a home gym, and the key rules to follow to make sure your project is a success.

Can I convert my garage into a gym?

(Image credit: Motiv8 Group)

Turning your garage into a gym can be a really good idea if you are keen to get your workouts in at home. 'The ceiling height typically works well for gym equipment and the walls have a good thickness for bolting/attaching equipment,” says Sally Ottewell from Motive8.

However, there are different routes you could take, so you will need to be clear on the rules that apply to each to ensure a successful project.

This largely comes down to understanding the difference between optimising the existing space versus a complete change of use. If you’re optimising the space, essentially, you’re using your existing garage to house your gym equipment.

However, if you’re changing the use of the garage, it means taking away the garage door, adding in brickwork, windows and doors, plastering the walls etc – essentially creating a habitable room similar to the rest of your house. Of course, this type of project requires a lot more time, work and money – and potentially planning permission for the garage conversion, too.

The beauty with home gyms is that they can fall into either category. For instance, if you’re working with a limited budget and want to go down the DIY route, you might neaten the space up by clearing out old junk, applying panels to the walls and ceiling and put down new floor tiles before moving exercise equipment in.

If you’re doing a full conversion as a means of creating a more luxurious fitness suite, it’ll probably mean installing insulation, re-plastering the walls and ceiling, adding in a heating system, as well as new doors, windows and lighting.

If you’re not making any changes to the exterior of the garage, you can typically do the work under Permitted Development. Changes to the front of your house will increase the likelihood of needing consent. If permission is required, you can maximise your chances of success by keeping the style and materials of your newly converted garage in keeping with the rest of the house. Overlooking is another aspect to consider if you’re keen to install new windows.

'Always check your planning requirements,' says Mark Hood from Resi. If you’re struggling to track down the information you need, contact your local authority for peace of mind before making any changes to your garage. 'Make sure the project complies with building regulations, particularly for fire safety, ventilation and insulation.'

7 rules to follow when converting a garage into a gym

1. Make sure the structure is sound

'Some garages, particularly in older homes, may have structural issues or weak points,' says Mark from Resi. So, if you want to hang exercise equipment from the ceiling and walls, it might be necessary to appoint a builder or surveyor to assess whether your garage is able to take the load. For heavier items, it’s possible that the walls and ceiling of your garage will need to be reinforced.

2. Have adequate security in place for peace of mind

If your garage is packed with expensive exercise equipment, it’s likely that you’ll want to boost the security and take extra preventative measures to protect yourself from potential intruders. If you’re installing a new garage door, for instance, double check it comes with a ‘Secured by Design’ seal of approval. This police-led initiative aims to design out crime. Items that meet the required criteria have been thoroughly tested to be able to withstand a break-in for a certain amount of time.

You can also explore the options for protecting your space with a smart home security system that links up to your phone, providing you with camera footage of the space and alerts whenever someone opens the door.

3. Choose the right lighting scheme for the space

The right lighting will help you create the right atmosphere for your workout. Incorporate a mix of bright, overhead lights to illuminate the whole space, as well as smaller spotlights for gentler stretching and yoga sessions.

If your budget allows, introducing natural light into your home gym with roof windows can completely change the feel of the space. 'Rooflights work well and are a cost-effective addition, providing natural light which is fantastic for working out,' says Sally. 'If you aren’t keeping the garage opening for extending your workouts outside, a bay window offers more light and a view.'

(Image credit: Motiv8)

4. Insulate the space to ensure year-round comfort

Though your garage is a part of your property, it’s worth noting that it’s highly unlikely it’s built the same standards, simply because it’s not intended to be a habitable space. As a result, the garage is very unlikely to be insulated – which could make for a chilly workout!

According to Sally, insulating the garage is not essential if you’re planning to use the space solely as a home gym. 'However, in the winter months it’s an easier workout if there’s some form of heat to motivate you!' she says.

If you’re going down the full conversion route, however, it’s likely you’ll want to improve the thermal performance of the space. Adding insulation boards to the inner face of the walls is one of the easiest ways to do this – but remember this will eat into some of the interior floor space. Choosing a modern garage door with good U-values (a measure of heat loss, where lower numbers are better) is another way of keeping heat inside.

5. Factor in floor protection

A concrete floor is ideal for a home gym, though if your garage has an older timber floor it might not be suitable to support the load of exercise equipment.

Lifting and dropping weights can lead to potential floor damage, so it’s wise to protect your garage floor and provide some cushioning for higher impact exercise. PVC interlocking floor tiles, like this bestselling ComFy Mat gym flooring, £23.95 for 24 square feet, from Amazon, provide one potential solution – always check the units you lay down are non-slip. 'Rubber matting can be relatively inexpensive and a good option to protect the equipment, user and floor,' says Sally.

6. Integrate some noise control into the space

If you’re worried the noise from your workout playlist and exercise equipment will disturb other occupants in the house, acoustic panelling, like this acoustic light oak wood panelling from Wickes (£80 for 22 x 600 x 2400mm panel) can easily be applied to the walls to dampen sound.

Any thermal insulation you install to stud walls, floors and the ceiling will also help to minimise sound from your garage.

7. Don't forget about head height

You can forget about bicep presses if a lack of room overhead prohibits you from reaching your arms up without hitting the ceiling. As a minimum, a ceiling height of 2.2m is ideal.

Should I convert my garage into a gym?

(Image credit: Motiv8)

For many people, the prospect of leaving the house and travelling to the gym provides a big enough obstacle to prevent a workout. However, if all you need to do to exercise is open the door to your garage and step inside, one of the biggest barriers to working out is automatically removed.

Not only is this a huge time saver – especially if your commute to the gym is more than 10 minutes each way – but it’ll allow you to save money on gym membership fees, too.

Other advantages are the fact that you can work out in privacy, as well as not having to waste time waiting around for a treadmill to become free when they’re all in use. You’re in charge of what you put in your gym, too, which means you’re only going to install equipment you actually want to use – an important point to bear in mind when you start planning your gym and how you want to maximise the space (why put in a bench press machine if you’re not going to use it?)

On the downside, changing the garage into a home gym inevitably means you’re likely going to lose a substantial amount of storage space, so you’ll need to relocate the bikes, garden furniture and other household paraphernalia that used to live in your garage.

Depending on the exercise equipment you want to install, it’s worth pointing out that some larger pieces of kit can be expensive. Therefore, it’ll take time for the savings you make on gym memberships to offset the initial outlay for equipment.

Space constraints may also make it challenging to install a home gym – in the UK, a single garage typically covers an area around 15m2. This doesn’t mean you won’t be able to fit in a home gym, but you will need to plan the space carefully to make sure you can include all the equipment you want, and there’s enough space to use it properly.

How much is it likely to cost to convert a garage into a gym?

Changing your garage into a home gym could cost anywhere from under £5,000, if you plan on doing a lot of the work yourself, to £20,000 and above for a more luxurious home exercise suite. A lot depends on whether you’re simply cleaning the space up and making a few simple upgrades, to a complete change of use project that requires planning permission and structural work.

While a basic garage conversion costs around £5,000-7,000, this won't include any of your gym equipment, and or any additional structural work (e.g. cutting out new doorways or any reinforcement that may be needed).

If it transpires you actually want to convert your garage into another kind of living space, then these shed gym ideas might give you an alternative solution.

Is it a huge mistake to convert your garage and get rid of prime storage space? Pros reveal what to consider and how to get the best of both worlds

Rebecca Foster — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

If your home’s garage is little more than a dark, chilly space that’s used to stash away DIY tools, garden furniture and old shoes and wellies, it’s likely that you’ve already entertained the idea of converting the space into extra living accommodation. A typical single garage serves up around 15m2 while a double garage offers a roomy 30m2, so converting the space into a habitable zone has the potential to transform the way you use your house.

But there’s a lot to consider when converting a garage, from how you plan on using the space to whether planning permission will be required. 'Garages often become popular additions like gyms, offices or nurseries,' says Mark Hood from Resi. 'I’ve also seen them become essential living areas, helping families stay in their homes by creating ground floor bedrooms and bathrooms for elderly parents.'

However, one of the most common dilemmas many homeowners face when weighing up whether to go ahead with a conversion is if it’s worth sacrificing the valuable storage space the garage provides, in favour of creating extra living space.

According to the pros, with careful planning and clever design it is possible to achieve the best of both worlds, maintaining space for storage as well as creating a new, habitable room.

Should you sacrifice storage space in favour of a garage conversion?

The design of many large modern vehicles means they sometimes struggle to fit inside standard single garages, and so it makes sense that there’s a trend for using the garage for other purposes, with storage being the number one function of most garage spaces.

But if you find you need to increase living space, and you don't want to move, then you might find yourself torn between keeping the storage option and creating a new room instead.

'Consider how important the garage is as a storage space and how often you use it,' explains Mark from Resi. 'Once you understand that, weigh it up against the value of creating a more functional space. If it makes sense to proceed, look at planning constraints, potential value uplift in your property, and whether the intended function of the space would be affected once you upgrade the insulation.'

If you're debating between the two, you're not alone. According to RAC Home Insurance, more than half of the UK’s garages are not used to park cars in – mostly because they’re too full of household junk.

According to survey results, more than eight in ten drivers (83% say that the garage is used for additional storage. Furthermore, almost half (47%) use the space as a DIY workshop, 9% as a home gym, while only 8% had converted their garage into another room.

So, if you’re considering your garage as a way of boosting living space and adding value to your home, assessing how you currently use the space is an important starting point.

(Image credit: Motiv8 Group)

If you convert your garage, where do you store your belongings?

(Image credit: Matt Gamble)

According to the same RAC survey, items most commonly stored in UK garages include DIY tools and materials (90%), gardening tools and furniture (74%), bicycles and scooters (55%), wellies and shoes (36%) and camping equipment (24%). So, if you do go ahead with converting your garage, what are the options for storing these items elsewhere?

An additional shed in the garden is probably the go-to solution for most people, with sheds ranging from compact plastic or wood structures to bespoke multi-purpose solutions. If you’re simply using your shed to store gardening and DIY paraphernalia, a basic waterproof shed is probably sufficient. Find out where to buy a shed that will suit your needs with our handy guide.

However, if your current garage also serves the purpose as a DIY workshop as well as a space for storage, a larger structure with room for shelving and a work bench will probably suit your requirements better.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

For keen gardeners, opting for a potting shed design rather than a basic Apex or Pent roof shed will offer space and light to cultivate plants, as well as storing your gardening tools.

If you have a small garden and don’t want a shed that’s going to gobble up precious space, there are more compact garden storage ideas available. For instance, dual purpose storage benches, like this Keter Eden plastic storage bench, £135 at B&Q, can double up seating and as a place to keep garden furniture and gardening tools.

Deck boxes and chests, like this VonHaus 270L storage box, £69.99 at Amazon, also provide a fair amount of space to keep items that are being moved out of the garage and into the garden. Plus, they’re a cost-effective solution if you want to channel the bulk of your budget towards kitting out your newly converted garage.

If you’re looking for a more attractive solution, an outdoor cabinet this Keter Moby tall storage cupboard, £140 at Argos, could provide the ideal option for items that you want to access more regularly and keep organised, such as barbecuing kit or the kids’ garden toys.

Is a partial garage conversion an option?

In this project by Resi, the garage was rebuilt and extended on top of to create an additional bedroom and ensuite. (Image credit: Matt Gamble)

If sacrificing storage space by converting your garage is going to be an dealbreaker, there are several clever design strategies you can adopt that’ll allow you achieve the best of both worlds: a newly converted living space plus an area that can be used for storage.

If you’re planning to convert the entire garage into living space, discreet storage can be built into gable walls to house smaller items. You can also use integrated overhead racks for some of the items being displaced by your conversion project.

'Multi-purpose furniture is a godsend, too,' says Mike Vasiliou from Dobuild. 'In some cases, wall-mounted storage and a fold-down bed for guests works wonders, maximising the available square footage.'

(Image credit: Future PLC/Photoword)

A partial garage conversion can be achieved by building a partition wall that splits the garage into two rooms. If you’re simply looking for enough space to accommodate a utility room, cloak room or home office, this might be the best solution as it’ll allow you to retain the garage door and house bulky items like bikes and garden furniture in the garage portion of the space.

For instance, taking just a few metres of your garage space to create a utility room with a washer and dryer can free up a lot of space in the kitchen and potentially transform the flow of the space.

If you have the head room in your garage, you could potentially add in a mezzanine level above your newly converted living space to be used for storage. If you have a bigger budget, it might also be possible to extend upwards over your garage; maintaining storage space on the ground floor with new living space above.

If you want your garage to serve multiple functions as an area for storage, working from home or even as a home gym, it can be worth bringing in a design expert. They will have the skills and experience to help you get the most out of the space you have available. 'Hiring a professional designer is invaluable,' says Mike from Dobuild. 'They have an eye for detail and can save you from making costly blunders down the line.'

If you decide you can make a conversion like this work, then make sure you research plenty of garage conversion ideas to create the ideal space.

Is a garage conversion worth it? Experts say it could boost your home’s value (but you’ll need to consider these 3 key things)

Amy Reeves — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

A garage conversion is a cost-effective and time-efficient way of gaining valuable living space. As older garages are often not suited to modern vehicles, they often become dumping grounds for bits and bobs that aren't used very often. This could be wasting their excellent potential to ease space pressures on the rest of your home.

But is converting your garage worth the time, effort and cost? Well, that will depend on your lifestyle, current home and what you perceive as ‘value’ - it could be added market value, value in keeping your home suitable for your needs, or value in being happy in the space you’re in.

Below, we break down, with the help of home design experts, the potential of garage conversion and how to determine if they’re worth it for your home and life.

Is a garage conversion worth it?

The garage conversion project by VATRAA Architecture created a new home office in a 1970s terrace. (Image credit: Jim Stephension c/o VATRAA Architecture)

Whether a garage conversion is worth your time and money will hinge on the quality of the existing garage and what you are trying to achieve. If the structure is sound and the new space will meet your requirements, and you don't want to sacrifice any of your garden, then it's worth it.

However, if you need more space than a garage conversion can provide, and a remodel won't help you get it, then it might not be the right solution.

Similarly, if you are after an additional bedroom and want to keep them all on the first floor, then a garage conversion isn't going to fit the bill, and you might be thinking about extending over the garage instead.

If budget is a primary concern, and your existing garage structure is not up to scratch, then the project becomes more complex, which can add to the cost. It may be more straightforward, in that case, to start from scratch with a new extension.

Before you decide, it's important to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages based on your specific needs and home.

Pros of a garage conversion

If your attached garage is connected to the kitchen, then turning it into a utility room could help ease space pressures (Image credit: Future PLC/Douglas Gibb)

Can be useful extra space, especially when combined with a remodel of an existing floorplan
Best for ‘public spaces’ as they’re on the ground floor and usually street-facing
Work with existing footprint (especially useful in Listed Buildings or those in Conservation Areas)
Usually already have foundations, decent walls and a solid roof
Generally uses less building materials, making it a cost-efficient and ‘greener’ way of adding more space
You won't have to sacrifice any precious garden.

Cons of a garage conversion

May not be suitable if you're wanting to add an extra bedroom or bathroom (and don't want a downstairs option)
Access to natural light can be limited
Converting the garage can reduce storage and parking opportunities
If the existing structure is not sound, the work is far more complicated (and therefore costly)
Can be tricky with planning permission, building regulations and the disruption of building work

‘Garage conversions can have more scope for an impactful change to a house as they are on the ground floor with a potential connection to the garden,’ begins Kieran Gaffney, design director at Konishi Gaffney Architects.

‘They tend to be easier to make into "public" rooms as they are usually at the front of the house but their size often limits this.’

However, when designed effectively, a garage conversion can be a great alternative to building an extension.

‘Garage conversions often deliver the best return on spatial efficiency - they allow homeowners to increase usable floor area without extending the building footprint,’ adds Bogan Rasu, founder of VATRAA Architecture.

‘Compared to a loft, which may involve structural interventions like dormers or stairs, and compared to rear extensions which require foundations and external envelope work, garage conversions can be relatively straightforward. They’re also a good opportunity to reconfigure the ground floor layout - for example, opening up to the garden or creating a more fluid connection between living spaces.’

‘But like a loft conversion there can be structural and fire issues to solve,’ says Kieran Gaffney. ‘Loft conversions often require re-enforcement of the roof structure — doubling up rafters and the like, garage conversions often need the foundations/slab to be thicker and deeper. If underpinning is required, this can make garage conversions much less affordable and more akin to new builds.’

Does a garage conversion add value to your home?

The original garage door was glazed during this conversion to maximise natural light in the 8-metre deep room. (Image credit: Jim Stephenson c/o VATRAA Architecture)

Most home improvement projects will add value to your home, be it in market value or improved lifestyle and a garage conversion is no different. According to Checkatrade, done well, a garage conversion could add between 10 and 20% to your home's value.

‘Garage conversions can be good value for money as the foundations and walls are already in place,’ advises Kieran Gaffney.

‘They can be excellent value, particularly when the structure is sound and already integrated into the home’s footprint,’ adds Bogdan Rasu. ‘Because much of the envelope may already exist, construction costs are often lower per square metre than new extensions. Plus, by improving the layout and usability of the ground floor, a conversion can significantly enhance both day-to-day living and property value. The key is to approach it with proper design and technical care — that’s where the real value emerges.’

However, for some potential buyers, the lack of a garage could prove problematic. But if you combine your well-executed garage conversion, with suitable alternative storage and parking, then you can try to offset any negative impact on your home's value.

What should you consider before converting your garage?

In order for a garage conversion to provide the most value to your home and lifestyle, there are key considerations that will need to be made to ensure this is the right home improvement project for you.

1. How much extra space can a garage conversion provide?

A double garage can give more scope when it comes to conversion design options (Image credit: Future)

Garages can be narrow at the best of times, then when you add the necessarily insulation to the roof and walls to make them habitable spaces, then can become narrower still.

‘So, our first question is how big is the garage?’ Kieran Gaffney adds. ‘Modern single garages are typically too narrow for much other than a study / single bedroom with en-suite. But double garages can house bigger spaces and offer more scope.'

Consider combining a garage conversion with a remodel of the rest of the ground floor for a truly transformed space.

2. Do you have alternative parking provisions in place?

Before you get too invested in the potential of a garage conversion, you have to think about suitable provisions for parking. Although it is rare that a car even fits into an old garage these days, planning departments will still consider them as a parking space.

A decent-sized drive will need to provide off-road parking if your garage conversion is to be genuinely considered.

3. Will using an architect get the most out of the project?

Decide whether you want to use an architect or designer to convert the space — a professional will have better knowledge of planning rules and building regulations than most homeowners and will be able to come up with creative ideas that could transform not just the garage, but how it works with your home as a whole.

When working with an architect, ‘it’s useful to come with clarity on how you want to use the space — whether it's a workspace, snug, guest room, or part of a larger open-plan kitchen/living area,’ says Bogdan Rasu.

‘A good brief goes beyond just listing functions — it might include your routines, storage needs, or the atmosphere you’re hoping to achieve. Photos, inspiration, or even dislikes can all help shape a clear and personal brief.

'This gives us enough information to develop a design that connects with the rest of the home, both spatially and in terms of light and flow, while reflecting the homeowner's personality.’

If it's an additional bedroom you're after, then planning a loft conversion might be a better option to give you the space you need.

Avoid these 7 common garage conversion mistakes if you want your new space to give you the best value for money

Natasha Brinsmead — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In the majority of cases, a garage conversion is one of the best ways to add space and value to a house without extending – but there are always exceptions.

If you want your newly formed space to be an asset, you need to know exactly how to convert a garage in a way that ensures it ticks all the boxes, both in terms of what you need and want from it as well as when it comes to building regulations and planning approval.

With this in mind, we asked the experts for the most common garage conversion mistakes they see homeowners making time and time again – so you can avoid doing the same.

1. Not checking the planning rules

If you plan to convert a detached garage, you will need to apply for a change of use in order to comply with planning rules (Image credit: Future PLC)

This is a really important one to take note of. While garage conversion planning permission is not usually required, you should not just assume this – it could mean you end up in some seriously hot water. You could find your neighbour objects to your garage conversion, which could put your project in jeopardy, or you could face having to make changes or even undo all the work you have done.

'Even if most garage conversions don’t require planning permission, that’s not always the case,' picks up CEO of HomeOwners Alliance Paula Higgins. 'Always check with your local authority first, especially if your home is part of a newer development or in a conservation area. Contact your council’s planning department and get confirmation in writing.'

If you live in a conservation area on in a listed building, you will almost certainly need permission to convert your garage – once again, check with your local planning department first, as this will add to your garage conversion costs.

Converting a detached garage will need a change of use application, so make sure you research what you need before any building work begins.

2. Overlooking the need for building regulations

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Photography)

All too often, in the excitement of getting started adding new habitable space to a house, homeowners overlook the need for building regulations approval – big mistake.

'Even if you don’t need planning permission, your conversion must comply with building regulations – covering things such as insulation, ventilation, fire safety and structural integrity,' explains Paula Higgins. 'You should work with a contractor who understands the regulations and make sure you apply for building control approval.

'Building control approval is essential to ensure the conversion is safe and legal,' adds CEO of Back to Front Exterior Design, Alexandra Hull.

3. Skipping good design advice

(Image credit: MYMYPhotography (@mymycreative). Design: Bliss Architecture and Interiors)

Garage conversions are not always as straightforward as they might first appear and to ensure they are adding maximum space and value to your home, a great, well-planned design is crucial.

'A garage can feel cold or disconnected from the rest of the house if the design isn’t carefully thought through,' warns Paula Higgins. 'Poor lighting, low ceilings, or a mismatched aesthetic can all make it less usable or appealing.'

'A bad layout can make the room feel awkward or limit its use,' picks up Alexandra Hull. 'Plan the space just as carefully as any other room in the house.'

Paula Higgins has some more advice on getting garage conversion ideas just right.

'Hire an experienced architect or designer to create a layout that integrates well with your existing home,' she says.

It really will pay to ask to see their previous projects and talk to their past clients to ensure that they have experience of the kind of end result you are aiming for.

If you are planning on selling your home down the line, designing the conversion with broad appeal and futureproofing in mind will be desirable to whoever may inherit your garage conversion after you move.

(Image credit: Future)

4. Not considering parking or resale value

Converting a garage is one of the best ways to add value to your home, but if you want this to be the case with your own project, there are some important points to bear in mind.

'Although converting your garage can add up to 20% to the value of your home, this depends on your particular situation,' advises Paula Higgins. 'Converting your garage could reduce the available parking space on your property, which can be a concern in busy urban areas and may negatively affect your home’s value or appeal to future buyers.'

'Converting a garage that’s your only off-street parking can put off future buyers,' adds Alexandra Hull. 'Consider your location and long-term needs.'

'Think about local parking pressure,' picks up Paula Higgins. 'Have your neighbours converted their garage? If so, take a look at house price data to see if they added value. Or ask a local estate agent. If you do go ahead, consider adding alternative parking where possible.'

From your own perspective, if you currently use your garage for storage, do consider where you will put all the stuff you are keeping there once the space has been converted.

5. Failing to insulate the space properly

Both in terms of building regulations compliance as well how comfortable the newly formed space will feel to spend time in, good insulation is so important.

'Garages aren't built for comfort,' points out Alexandra Hull. 'Failing to insulate walls, floors and ceilings can make the space feel cold, damp, and unusable year-round.'

There are lots of different ways to insulate a garage conversion, both internally and externally.

'The simplest way to add insulation to the walls is with insulated plasterboard fitted to timber battens above the damp proof course,' says Paula Higgins.

6. Installing too few windows into the space

(Image credit: MYMYPhotography. Design: Bliss Architecture and Interiors)

Remember, for any room to be somewhere you look forward to spending time in, it needs to receive adequate natural light and be well ventilated – and garage conversions are no exception.

'A garage conversion can add valuable living space – but only if done right,' says Alexandra Hull. 'Garages often lack natural light and airflow. Not adding enough windows or good mechanical extraction can leave the space feeling dark and stuffy.'

In many cases, windows alone will provide enough ventilation, but if you are including a bathroom or shower enclosure into the new space, mechanical ventilation, in the form of a great bathroom extractor fan, is a must.

7. Forgetting to inform your neighbours of your plans

While your neighbours can't actually put a stop to your garage conversion if they decide they don't like the idea of it, they can cause a few headaches.

Providing your project falls under permitted development and doesn't require you to apply for planning permission and complies with all the necessary building regulations, you are free to proceed.

That said, it is common courtesy to inform your neighbours of your plans if they are nearby. Usually this will allay any worries they might have and give them a chance to ask questions.

FAQs

Is there a minimum ceiling height for a garage conversion?

Very often the floor of a garage will need to be raised for a conversion in order for insulation and a new layer of screed to be added. This means that the ceiling height might not suffice for a habitable space.

You may also need to consider the effect of underfloor heating if you plan on installing it in this new space.

'At least 2.2–2.4 metres of headroom is needed, assuming the floor is raised 15cm above external ground,' advises Paula Higgins.

A garage conversion is a great way to add space to your home without extending, but if you don't have one or need it for storage, why not consider a loft conversion instead – another brilliant way to increase the size of your house without altering its footprint.

How much does a garage conversion cost? This is what experts say you can expect to pay and how to keep costs low

Natasha Brinsmead — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

A garage conversion can be the perfect way to gain extra space within your home without extending its footprint. Utilising what is often wasted space, used not, as originally intended, for housing a vehicle or two, but for dumping all kinds of things no-one quite knows what to do with, this is a structure that holds so much potential.

Converting a garage comes with other benefits too. Very often no planning permission is required to carry out the project, they cause little in the way of disruption to everyday life and they have the potential to boost the value of your home too.

Of course of all this does come at a price and that is where our guide comes in. We explain how much to budget as well as the areas where you can make some savings.

How much does a garage conversion cost?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Photography)

Predicting what any type of home extension or improvement will cost is never going to be an exact science – there are just so many variables that can influence this. In short, the garage conversion ideas that you are hoping to create are unlikely to come in at exactly the same price as someone else's.

'Costs of converting a garage into a usable living space will vary depending on the size, complexity and and level of polish required to make it look good,' explains Alexandra Hull, managing director of Back to Front Exterior Design. 'The nuts and bolts will typically cost between £15,000 and £25,000.

'Core expenses include insulation, electrics, heating, windows, flooring, and labour,' continues Alexandra. 'If plumbing or structural changes are required, expect higher costs.'

What elements make up the cost of a garage conversion?

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

Just as when building an extension, when calculating what your garage conversion project is likely to cost, it is useful to understand the individual elements that go towards these overall figures. In this way, you are more likely to be able to see where savings could be made, as well as avoiding any nasty surprises.

In general, according to Paula Higgins, CEO of HomeOwners Alliance, the cost of a garage conversion will be made up of the following:

Professional services, such as architect or designer fees.
Planning permission or building regulation approval fees.
Structural engineer services, if necessary.
Structural reinforcement (if needed) of walls and roof.
Upgrading the floor: levelling, damp-proofing, and insulating.
Infilling the garage door, often by bricking it up.
Wall and roof insulation.
New windows and external doors.
Installing or upgrading heating and electrical systems.
New plumbing.
Decoration.

What factors affect the cost of a garage conversion?

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

While it is possible to estimate what a standard garage conversion will cost, it is useful to understand the decisions you will be faced with that could affect these figures.

In some cases, lower costs than those stated above can be achieved, according to Paula Higgins.

'The average cost to convert a garage ranges from £5,000 to £7,000, according to the builders and architects we spoke to,' says Paula. 'However, this cost can rise depending on whether there are any structural alterations needed for adding plumbing and utilities (for example if you are planning a bathroom to be added into the space.) The condition of the current garage also plays a role in the overall cost.

'Additionally, if it’s a detached garage rather than integrated into the house, this will cause costs to rise,' continues Paula. 'A detached garage will require a change of use application from the local planning authority. In addition it may need new or reinforced foundations and additional costs for bringing electricity and plumbing to the building.

'Other factors that increase costs include its condition and the type of structure and whether or not repairs to walls, floors or roofs are required,' adds Paula. 'If it’s in particularly poor condition, it may be cheaper to demolish and rebuild.'

How can you reduce the cost of a garage conversion?

Converting a detached garage may cost more if you need to ensure electric and water supply to the space (Image credit: Future PLC)

If these figures were a little higher than you had budgeted for, fear not – there are ways to shrink them a little.

'Work within the existing structure to avoid major alterations as much as possible,' advises Alexandra Hull, who goes on to make some more cost-cutting suggestions.

'Tackle easy DIY projects, such as painting or decorating, yourself,' she says. 'And always get multiple quotes, clarifying exactly what’s included.

'Early planning and realistic expectations are also key,' continues Alexandra. 'Even a basic cost breakdown can help steer your project in the right direction – without blowing the budget.'

Will a garage conversion add more value than it costs?

(Image credit: Convert Your Garage)

If you are going to the trouble and expense of converting your garage, you are probably going to want some reassurance that the new addition will add value to you home as well as extra space.

According to HomeOwners Alliance, you can expect an uplift of around 20% in value after carrying out a well-designed and properly constructed garage conversion, making this a very worthwhile project.

'Converting a garage into a liveable room can be a relatively low-cost way to expand your home's usable space,' points out Paula Higgins. 'Unlike an extension, a garage conversion often doesn't require new foundations or external walls, and many garages already have power supply in place.'

FAQs

How long does a garage conversion take?

Even if you have weighed up garage conversion and extension costs and decided that converting your garage is the best way to get the additional space you need for the budget you have available, you will most likely still be keen to know how long this project is going to take, from start to finish.

According to Checkatrade, the average garage conversion takes between three to six weeks, although this will obviously very much depend on the condition of your existing garage, what you intend on using the new space for and the kind of specification you are aiming for.

If you plan on carrying out a large proportion of the work on a DIY basis, this will usually mean longer timescales too.

If, on reflection, you decide that a garage conversion isn't quite right for you, take some time to consider a few loft conversion ideas – the extra space you crave might just be lurking in your attic.

Can my neighbour actually stop me from converting my garage? Experts say no, as long as certain criteria are met

Natasha Brinsmead — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

More and more people are converting their garages, realising that, in many cases, they can get far more use out of them as habitable space than for storing all the things they haven't got around to decluttering.

In terms of how to convert a garage, there are many aspects to consider, such as how you will get natural light into the new area and ways of heating it – there is also the matter of planning approval.

While planning consent isn't usually required for a garage conversion, many people worry about their neighbour's reaction – but can their objections actually put a stop to your plans? We asked the experts whether this is something you should be concerned about.

Can my neighbour stop me converting my garage?

If you want to turn your garage into a guest bedroom, then as long as you meet the requirements of Permitted Development, or obtain planning permission, your neighbour's objections won't stop the project (Image credit: Future)

While there is clearly nothing you can do about your neighbour grumbling or complaining about your garage conversion ideas, can they actually put a stop to it? Much of this comes down to whether or not your conversion falls under permitted development.

'In most cases, if the conversion doesn’t require planning permission (i.e. it’s permitted development), then neighbours can’t formally object in a way that stops the works,' reassures professional planning consultant Simon Rix. 'However, if a planning application is needed – for example, where there’s a planning condition restricting use of the garage, or if the conversion changes the external appearance materially – then neighbours can comment and their views will be considered by the local planning authority.'

Cause for concern then? Not necessarily.

'Even then, objections don’t mean a refusal unless there are clear planning grounds for it,' points out Simon.

What can I do if my neighbour objects?

Avoid neighbour objections by informing them of your garage conversion plans well in advance of the building work starting (Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Photography)

If you do find out that your neighbour has objected to your garage conversion, what steps should you take to resolve the issue?

Rather than rushing straight to your local planning office, it is far better to first open the lines of communication between you and your neighbour – something you should ideally have done before getting started anyway, out of courtesy. Often, talking through your proposals and showing them your ideas will help appease any worries before they turn into objections.

'Even if formal permission isn’t required, it’s still wise to speak with your neighbour before work begins,' picks up Paula Higgins, CEO of HomeOwners Alliance 'Keeping them informed can help prevent misunderstandings or disputes – especially if your plans involve construction noise, parking concerns, or affect shared boundaries.'

Providing planning permission is not required and no party walls are affected by your conversion, there really is nothing else you need to do, providing you have noted – and adhered to – garage conversion building regulations.

'If a neighbour raises objections during a formal planning application, their concerns will be considered by the planning officer but only if they relate to material planning issues, such as privacy, light, or parking,' adds Paula Higgins. 'Personal objections, aesthetic preferences, or concerns about construction disruption typically carry little weight.'

What if I want to convert a link detached house?

A garage conversion can provide extra living space without adding to the overall footprint of your home, which means it can usually be done under Permitted Development (Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Photography)

Things can get a little more complicated if yours is a link detached house.

A link detached house is a type of property that sits between a semi-detached and fully detached house. In the case of a link detached house, the shared section between two adjoining buildings is a often a garage.

While you are fully entitled to convert a link-detached garage into habitable space, be aware that the wall of the converted garage linked to the neighbouring house will fall into the category of a party wall. Therefore, a formal party wall agreement will need drawing up.

How do I object to my neighbour’s proposed conversion?

On the flipside, what should you do if your neighbour is proposing a garage conversion that you feel will negatively impact your own property?

'If you are concerned about a neighbour’s garage conversion, you can always contact your local council’s planning department,' advises Simon Rix.

It is important to note, however, that unless there is some legal reason why the conversion should go ahead, there is likely to be little you can do about it.

'Unless it’s a breach of planning or building regulations, there’s usually little legal basis to stop it,' explains Simon.

When might a neighbour be able to object to a garage conversion?

There are some instances where it might be viable for your neighbour to object to your garage conversion (or vice versa).

'If your home is listed or you live in a conservation area, then it is highly likely that you will need planning permission before you can convert your garage,' explains Paula Higgins. 'In this scenario, we would recommend having an informal meeting with your local planning officer before you submit your application.'

Where garage conversion planning permission is required, your neighbours can have more of a say, although, realistically, they are unlikely to be successful in putting a stop to your project.

'If the conversion is carried out without necessary planning permission, or appears to breach building regulations, your neighbour can report it to the local council’s planning enforcement team,' points out Paula Higgins.

As a result, you may have to make changes to make it compliant or undo the work entirely.

FAQs

Do you need an architect for a garage conversion?

While there is nothing to say that you have to have an architect to design your garage conversion, getting one involved, either on a design-only basis or to oversee the entire project from start to finish, can help the whole thing run a little smoother.

Finding an architect and having a set of professionally-drawn plans and the advice of someone with experience in this type of project can also help reassure neighbours. Plus, they can help with building regulations approval too.

'You could choose to design your garage conversion yourself,' says Paula Higgins. 'But there are a number of other options. You could use an architect or architectural designer whose expertise mean they may come up with ideas you didn’t realise were possible.'

If your neighbours have legitimate reasons to object to your garage conversion plans, then you might consider converting alternative space instead. Just make sure you find out whether a neighbour can object to your loft conversion plans before you commit.

7 expert tactics to convert your loft on a budget, without compromising on quality

Natasha Brinsmead — Wed, 28 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

There is no denying that loft conversions are one of very best ways to add space and value to a house in a cost effective way – but do you know how to convert your loft on a budget in order to avoid overspending?

There are lots of things you can do when it comes to planning a loft conversion while keeping a lid on costs at the same time, including making smart choices when it comes to the type of conversion you opt for.

Read on for our expert-endorsed top tips on how to save money when transforming your loft space into a beautiful, stylish and indispensable new area within your home.

1. Stick to a simple design

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Maxwell Attenborough)

The very best thing you can do if you are on a tight budget is to stick to a simple design in terms of the loft conversion ideas you choose.

'A loft conversion can be one of the most cost-effective ways to add space and value to your home, but costs can climb fast without a bit of strategy,' picks up Rob Wood, MD of Simply Loft, who goes on to explain the best type of loft conversion for those keeping an eye on costs.

'A Velux (rooflight) loft conversion is the most budget-friendly option,' he says. 'It doesn’t alter the roofline, so there’s no need for complex structural work.'

2. Plan well in advance

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

Just as when building an extension, creating a firm plan and making decisions early on in the process will avoid changes later down the line that could eat into your budget. This is also an effective way to avoid common loft conversion mistakes, which can also prove costly to rectify.

'Rushed decisions lead to costly changes,' confirms Rob Wood. 'Spend time upfront making sure the design suits your needs long term.'

That said, it can also pay to leave a little flexibility in your plans too, as interior designer Nick Smith, founder of Smithers of Stamford explains.

'I always recommend splitting the conversion into phases: shell, services, soft finishes, and styling,' says Nick. 'Finish the structure and insulation first, then pause. Live in it raw for a few weeks if you can. This gives you clarity on how the light falls, where you naturally want to sit, how the space breathes.

'For one client, we initially thought the desk would go under the skylight,' continues Nick. 'But after a few weeks of use, they realised the opposite wall gave better screen visibility and cosier vibes. Had we hardwired sockets in too early, that misstep would’ve cost a rewire. Flexibility can save money and regret.'

3. Don't forget hidden fees

It is so important to understand the full scope of your loft conversion costs, and not just the more obvious factors – there are a number of hidden costs to watch out for too.

'Building regulations and and planning fees, structural reinforcements (in particular older houses may need extra steel supports), upgrading insulation and putting fire safety measures in place are all often-forgotten about when budgeting,' warns Rob Wood. One of our contributors wrote about how she had to spend an additional £4,000 after she thought she'd finished her renovation, so it's worth factoring these in if you can, or having a decent contingency fund in place.

You'll also need to think about final decoration if you don't want to end up with an unfinished project. This is definitely one area to unleash your DIY skills too if you want to save money.

4. Work with what you have

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

Loft conversions can be awkward spaces, with their dormer windows and sloping ceilings, but accepting this and working with the size and proportions of the room will help stop costs from spiralling.

'Respect the 'truth' of the space – don’t fight it,' advises Nick Smith. 'Here’s something few will tell you: the most expensive mistake in a loft conversion is wanting it to be something it’s not. Homeowners often try to impose a traditional room layout in a loft, forcing square furniture into triangle-shaped spaces, or flattening roofs just to install standard wardrobes. Don’t do that.

'One of my proudest budget projects was a reading nook under a sloping ceiling where we leaned into the asymmetry,' continues Nick. 'We layered floor cushions, warm LED strip lighting under the beam, and suspended a swing-arm lamp from the rafter. It cost under £300 and became the most talked-about spot in the house.

'Design is not about uniformity, it is about harmony with context,' adds Nick. 'Work with the pitch. Celebrate the angles. You’ll save thousands by not forcing the space to conform.'

5. Spend strategically

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

There are areas of a loft conversion where you obviously don't want to cut corners – for example, anything to do with loft conversion building regulations or the structure are not where you want to be scrimping. However, there are certain, less obvious, aspects that deserve a little more of your budget if you want the overall scheme to be a success.

'Design a visual trick that makes the space feel twice the budget,' picks up Nick Smith. 'Let me tell you about the 'single splurge' rule. Even with the tightest budgets, I urge clients to invest in one hero element that anchors the space. Maybe it’s a reclaimed wood beam sanded to perfection, or a vintage chandelier sourced from an estate sale. In one project, we created a faux-steel Crittall-style window between the loft and stairwell using painted timber trim and clear acrylic. The whole thing cost £120. Visitors thought it was bespoke glazing.

'Strategic splurges elevate everything around them,' further adds Nick. 'When you contrast luxe with basic finishes, the budget-conscious elements borrow glamour from the showpiece. It’s a mind trick – and it works every time.'

6. Consider acting as project manager

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

When it comes to the question of should you project manage your own extension, there are pros and cons to be aware of, but if you are keen to save money on your loft conversion, this is definitely a route worth considering.

'Rather than hiring a single firm to manage your conversion, consider becoming the general contractor,' suggests Nick Smith. 'That doesn’t mean doing all the work yourself, but managing the timeline and trades in order.

'Builders can mark up sub-trades (plumbers, electrician, plasterers and so on) by 10–20%. But if you hire trusted people directly – staggering them based on availability – you cut out the margin. Yes, you need to be organised. Yes, it takes time. But I’ve helped clients knock 30% off their total spend just by taking on the scheduler role themselves.

'You can use free apps like Trello to track tasks and WhatsApp groups to keep everyone looped in,' continues Nick. 'It’s messy, but it works – and it gives you full visibility of every penny spent.'

While this route offers savings, do be aware that you'll still benefit from using a loft specialist, structural engineer, good architect and so on.

7. Cheat the bespoke furniture look

(Image credit: Simply Loft)

Keeping costs low need not mean sacrificing a stylish finish that looks high end – you just need to be smart about how you achieve this, looking into things like stylists' favourite Ikea hacks, for example.

'Fitted wardrobes are often the biggest spend in loft bedrooms, but I have a trick,' begins Nick Smith. 'Use low-cost carcasses (such as IKEA's PAX frames) and hack them with custom doors cut at an angle to match the slope. I work with local carpenters who will cut MDF doors to spec, which clients can then paint themselves. The result? A bespoke look at 25% of the price.

'Better yet, install curtain tracks in the eaves and hide storage behind fabric. It softens the space, adds texture and costs next to nothing.'

FAQs

How much should I budget for a loft conversion?

If you want to step into your loft conversion project fully aware of what kinds of funds you'll need available, you need to do a little research on budgeting basics and average prices first.

'We have carried out thousands of loft conversions across London and the West Midlands,' picks up Rob Wood. 'An average loft conversion cost in 2025 can range anywhere from £50,000 – £90,000 and upwards. The typical cost of a loft conversion is based on many factors such as size, type of loft, where you are located in the UK and any internal specifications that are required such as windows, doors, bathrooms and so on.'

Once your loft conversion has been constructed, keep on track by selecting some budget decorating ideas that look great yet cost next to nothing.

10 loft conversion mistakes to dodge if you want your project to go well, according to an experienced renovator

Natasha Brinsmead — Fri, 23 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Turning the wasted area in your attic into a habitable room (or two) is one of the best ways to add space and value – but there are some loft conversion mistakes that could ruin all your efforts.

While many common errors can be avoided if you thoroughly research how to plan a loft conversion, it is also useful to be aware of the mistakes most frequently made by homeowners in order to ensure you don't follow in their footsteps.

To help you out, I reached out to the experts to ask which mistakes they most commonly see people making and for advice on how to carry out a loft conversion that is nothing but a success.

1. Underestimating the need for head height

(Image credit: Future)

The number one mistake all the experts I spoke to listed was a failure to look into how much head height is required for people's loft conversion ideas to become a reality.

'A loft conversion is a major project, and even small mistakes can lead to costly delays or problems down the line,' picks up Rob Wood, MD of Simply Loft. 'Lofts need a minimum of 2.2 metres headroom (measured from floor to ridge beam) to meet building regulations comfortably. Always measure before committing.'

'One of the biggest issues is not checking the head height properly before starting,' agrees home improvement expert Myles Robinson. 'Just because the loft looks roomy doesn't mean it's suitable for conversion. Always get a proper survey done early to avoid design headaches down the line.'

2. Assuming planning permission won't be needed

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Douglas Gibb Photography)

While planning permission for loft conversions is often not needed, you should never take this as a given.

'Although many loft conversions don’t need planning permission, some in conservation areas or to listed buildings will,' explains Tina Patel, RIBA-chartered architect and director at Architect Your Home. 'In conservation areas, there are strict guidelines on the sizes of any dormer extensions and even the type of rooflights to use and you will almost always need permission for any external changes.

'You should always check if you benefit from permitted development for lofts as it is not just homes in conservation areas that don’t have these rights. We have seen instances from the 1960s where permitted development rights have been removed from the entire estate,' continues Tina.

'Where you do have rights, you need to be careful to ensure the requirements are carefully followed; there are requirements in terms of volume that can be added at loft level, limitations on height relative to the existing roof, materials that can't be used and set backs on dormer extensions – if not followed this would be a breach of your permitted development rights and the council could take enforcement action.

It is always worth getting a Certificate of Lawfulness from the council – this is important not just to be sure that the proposal meets the requirements but useful if you ever need to sell the house.'

3. Ignoring loft conversion building regs

(Image credit: Simply Loft)

Just because your loft falls within permitted development, you will still need to adhere to loft conversion building regulations.

'Even if planning isn’t needed, building regulations approval definitely is,' says Myles Robinson. 'Skipping this step or going with a builder who doesn’t stick to the rules can lead to problems when you try to sell.'

The building regs surrounding loft conversions cover all kinds of things, but an area of particular confusion seems to be fire safety.

'A common mistake we see in lofts is poor understanding of fire regulations,' picks up Tina Patel. 'With an extra storey you will want to ensure you and your family are protected in the unfortunate event of a fire.

'There are requirements within dormers for these to be fire rated so as to stop the spread of fire to neighbouring properties (again, something often overlooked as it can be a bit more expensive to get this right). Use of a non-combustible board, such as Supalux, on the dormer walls can prevent the spread of fire to neighbouring properties. The doors to all habitable rooms at loft level will need to be fire rated and you may also need to consider changing doors to the lower levels in the house too.'

4. Poor staircase planning

(Image credit: Absolute Loft)

All too often, homeowners focus solely on the design and construction of the new loft conversion without fully thinking through how it they will actually access it – so think through your loft conversion stairs carefully.

'A bad staircase layout can waste space or ruin the flow of your home,' warns Rob Wood. 'Get expert advice early to avoid awkward placements.'

'A badly positioned staircase can eat into the floor below and disrupt your existing layout,' further explains Myles Robinson. 'We often see conversions where the stairs have been added as an afterthought, rather than integrated into the design from the start. Ideally, stairs should rise above your existing staircase, so you're not cutting into valuable bedroom or hallway space.'

5. Skipping structural checks

(Image credit: UK Radiators)

This is, potentially, a very serious mistake that could not only mean your loft conversion costs will soar, but also that you risk the safety of your home's occupants.

'It is common for people to try to save costs on structural checks hoping that the existing building will handle the extra load,' says Farook Member, director and home design expert at QS Supplies. 'Always have a structural engineer check the joists. The floor may have to be reinforced to meet building regulations and avoid sagging.'

If you are using a reputable loft conversion specialist or builder with experience of loft conversions, they should carry out all of these checks and advise you before any structural work gets underway.

6. Misjudging good bathroom design

(Image credit: Absolute Loft)

Depending on what you plan on using your newly converted loft for, you may well want to include some attic bathroom ideas, or a shower room, up there. This needs to be carefully planned in if you want to ensure it benefits rather than negatively impacts your existing spaces.

'Often adding a loft means needing an additional bathroom – if you only have one existing bathroom and a combi boiler it is highly likely that this will not be able to support an extra bathroom with hot water requirements and heating,' explains Tina Patel.

'What is the point of having two bathrooms if they cannot be used at the same time? This is something that is often overlooked and early infrastructure considerations can avoid this – you may need to factor in a boiler upgrade and even increase of the incoming water supply pipe to your home if the pressure is insufficient in order to avoid issues with trickling water from your shower.'

Tina has some further advice for those considering using a macerator for their new loft conversion bathroom.

'Unless done well, the use of sanitary macerators in loft bathrooms can be problematic – these are used for drainage of soil waste and involve the waste being crushed so it can flow through a smaller pipe,' explains Tina. 'The big issue is that they can be noisy so you end up with your desired en-suite but then because they are so noisy you can't use the bathroom as intended! This can be avoided by considering the drainage route from the outset so that it can be picked up through the main system in a concealed way.'

7. Failing to budget properly

(Image credit: Simply Loft)

This is a really big one – unless you go into your loft conversion project fully aware of how much it is going to cost you, there is a risk that you'll run out of funds midway through.

While the average loft conversion costs between £50,000 and £90,000, it is possible for them to end up coming in at more than this, particularly if you need to lower the ceilings in the rooms below.

It is also worth noting that there are some often-overlooked costs to factor in, including insulation, good lighting, flooring, electrics and, of course, final decoration.

8. Trying to squeeze too much in

(Image credit: Sharps)

It is all too easy, in the excitement of planning the perfect loft space, to expect too much from your newly converted attic room.

‘’A big mistake is trying to squeeze in too much,' agrees Myles Robinson. 'It’s easy to get carried away thinking about extra bedrooms or a bathroom up there, but the space has to work comfortably.

'Poor layout planning can leave you with awkward corners, unusable eaves, or rooms that just feel tight and out of proportion. The best loft conversions make smart use of light and storage, fitted wardrobes into the eaves or clever built-ins. These can make all the difference.'

9. Overlooking the need for adequate insulation

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Maxwell Attenborough)

Just as with garage conversions, lofts were usually not constructed with day-to-day habitation in mind. What this means is that they will need upgrading in order to feel comfortable to spend time in.

'Ventilation and insulation are often overlooked,' points out Myles Robinson. 'Lofts tend to get warm in summer and cold in winter, so getting your insulation right, not just to meet regulations but to make the space actually comfortable, is essential.

'Without proper ventilation, especially in a loft bathroom, you’ll end up with condensation issues and potentially mould,' continues Myles. 'Make sure extractor fans are vented properly to the outside and not just into the roof space.'

10. Forgetting the importance of good storage

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

Great storage forms a key part of any successful room scheme, so failing to build in enough is a huge mistake.

'Often, we see people try to make the room feel bigger by bringing the eaves space into the room,' begins Tina Patel. 'Although this may, in theory, sound like it will increase the footprint, as you get closer to the lower part of the pitch at the front of the property this space is difficult to stand in and so not useable and impossible to clean well. It is far better to have well designed storage in this space to allow you to manage the head room and retain some storage for things that used to be in the attic such as Christmas tree decorations and suitcases.

'It is also a great place to store the boiler and hot water cylinder if you have nowhere else to locate them – if height is limited, you can use a horizontal one.'

FAQs

Do I need a structural engineer for a loft conversion?

Just as when building an extension, structural engineers are frequently brought into loft conversion projects, particularly during the building regulations stage when they will calculate the weight of your proposed structure, and specify key elements needed for support and so on.

While using a structural engineer is highly recommended, there is not a legal requirement, and in some cases your chosen loft conversion specialist will be able to carry out the calculations needed. That said, a structural engineer really can come in handy when it comes to applying for building regs approval, even submitting forms on your behalf.

A loft conversion won't be for everybody. If you are still unsure, take a closer look at all the extension ideas available before making your final decision.

Can my neighbour stop me from converting my loft? I asked 3 legal experts where you stand and how to resolve the conflict

Sarah Handley — Mon, 19 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Planning major changes to your home, like doing a loft conversion, can raise concerns with those who live nearby, especially if it could impact their home. But can a neighbour actually stop you from converting your loft?

There'll be a lot to consider when you plan a loft conversion and that last thing you want is for your home improvement plans to sour relations with your neighbours. But what can you do if they don't appear to be on board with your loft conversion ideas?

I asked legal experts if and when neighbour objections can halt your project, and what you can do to ensure your loft conversion runs smoothly while maintaining a good relationship with those who live next door.

Can my neighbour stop me from converting my loft?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Adam Carter)

While a neighbour might object to your loft conversion plans, they can't stop your project from going ahead just because they don't want you to do it.

However, if their objections are based on a flouting of rules or regulations, then it could be a different story. I look at some common reasons a neighbour might object to your loft conversion, and reveal whether these could put a stop to your project.

If they object on the grounds of planning permission...

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Douglas Gibb Photography)

If your loft conversion doesn't meet the planning rules, then a neighbour's objection could put a stop to your project. So make sure you check with your local planning authority whether your loft conversion will need planning permission before you start building.

Katie Lewis, Partner at Broadfield says: ‘Whilst loft conversions can be considered to be permitted development providing certain conditions are met, that is the ability to make certain alterations to a property without the need to apply for specific planning consent, a neighbour could still potentially object.

‘They could firstly object to the local authority who could inspect the works and decide whether the works violate the limitations or conditions attached to permitted development.

'In the event that the work complies then from a planning perspective your development cannot be blocked.'

If it doesn't comply and you need to apply for planning permission, your neighbour will have an opportunity to object at this stage.

But only certain objections will be taken in to consideration by the local planning authority. Fergus Charlton, planning partner at national law firm Michelmores, explains: ‘Objections need to be planning objections. Amenity impact, be that noise or visual overlooking, will play their part in the determination of the application. So too might material considerations in the planning balance, such as a right to light, or impacts on protected species.’

Should the planning department find these objections valid, then your planning application may be rejected, which means your project won't be able to go ahead until changes are made to your plans. If it is approved, you may find the planning conditions attached relate to alleviating your neighbours concerns.

If they object on the grounds of a restrictive covenant...

Even if the scope of a loft conversion project falls within Permitted Development, a neighbour can object if the work will contradict a restrictive covenant, which could limit the alterations that could be made to your home.

Katie explains: 'It is also worthwhile, prior to the works commencing, checking whether there are any relevant restrictive covenants affecting your property, which in principle could then be enforced by your neighbours or others.'

If there is a valid restrictive covenant in place, you may be prevented from doing the work altogether, or need to alter your plans to ensure the covenant is not broken.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Maxwell Attenborough)

If they object on the grounds of having a shared wall...

Should your loft conversion plans involve a wall that you share with another property, then that could potentially be grounds for a neighbour objection. ‘If you live in a mid-terrace, semi-detached home, or any property where a wall is shared by the two properties – known as a party wall – then a legally-binding document called a party wall agreement is required,' explains Jagdeep Sandher, partner and head of civil litigation at Blythe Liggins Solicitors.

'This is because the work will involve cutting into the party wall, so it is an agreement between the homeowners on each side which is designed to protect both parties.'

A party wall notice should be issued to your neighbour before work starts, and if you ignore the Party Wall Act, then your neighbour may be able to apply for an injunction to prevent the work from starting.

However, if you issue the notice and they refuse to come to an agreement, then you can get a party wall surveyor on board to resolve the stalemate.

If they object on the grounds of noise and disruption...

The noise and disruption of a potential building project could cause your neighbour to object, but these objections are unlikely to prevent you from being able to undertake the work.

'It is however important to consider whether the works would negatively impact your neighbours; for example, your neighbour may have concerns about their privacy being impacted upon, or construction noise,' suggests Katie. 'In such cases, the preferable course of action will be to come to an amicable agreement with your neighbour, by making reasonable adjustments where possible, such as limiting the times when the construction work (or at least the noisy elements such as drilling) will be undertaken.'

Given the relatively short timeframe of a loft conversion project, any attempt by your neighbour to pause your project on the grounds of noise are likely to be unsuccessful.

What should I do if my neighbour objects to my loft conversion?

(Image credit: Future)

If your neighbour has raised objections, then the best thing to do is hear them out and see where you may be able to alleviate their concerns if you want your project to run smoothly.

If they are worried about potential damage to their property in the process of you converting your loft, then having a party wall agreement in place will help quiet their concerns.

Keeping noise to a minimum between certain times will also help.

You should also make sure that you have all the necessary permissions and agreements in place, and that you are not contravening any restrictive covenants.

Even if none of these apply, you should also ensure that your project is constructed in accordance with building regulations.

How can I avoid neighbour objections in the first place?

If you can, it's better all round to avoid conflict arising between you and your neighbours in the first place.

The best way to do this is to communicate your plans early on, and keep them updated as the project progresses so they don't feel blindsided, which could cause tensions to rise.

If they raise any initial concerns that are easy for you to resolve, then its worth doing to keep things sweet.

(Image credit: Future)

What should I do if I object to my neighbours loft conversion plans?

If the shoe is on the other foot and you are the one objecting to your neighbour's loft conversion plans, then you'll need to have clear, legal reasons on which to object. This could be around planning permission, restrictive covenants or issues where a party wall is involved.

For other objections that potentially don't have a legal recourse, the best thing to do is to take the time to communicate with your neighbours and try to reach a mutual agreement.

If you decide to convert other unused space in your home, like a garage, you'll also need to know whether a neighbour can stop your garage conversion from going ahead.

What types of loft conversions are there? I explain the 5 main options and their pros and cons

Natasha Brinsmead — Fri, 16 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Transforming the space in your attic into a useable room is one of the best ways to gain extra space without extending your house, but it can be hard to choose between the different types of loft conversion in order to select the best one for your home and needs.

Everything from the age of your property to your budget, the size of space you need to what you want to use it for should play a part in the kind of conversion you opt for.

There are five main options available to most people considering loft conversion ideas: rooflight; dormer; hip-to-gable; mansard and modular. Here, with the help of the experts, we'll take a look at each, explaining how they are constructed, their pros and cons as well as how much they're likely to cost.

Rooflight loft conversions

(Image credit: Future)

Before, or at the very least at the same time as, you look fully into how to plan a loft conversion, you need to understand the decisions you will be faced with. If you are worried about loft conversion costs, you'll be happy to learn that this is the simplest and cheapest type of loft conversion. It is also sometimes referred to as a Velux loft conversion.

'If you want your loft conversion to be simple yet effective then a skylight or Velux conversion may be best,' explains Rob Wood, MD of Simply Loft. 'The structure of your roof isn’t changed in any way – windows are simply added. It’s ideal for creating a spare bedroom or an office space, although does not maximise your space internally so it’s not the best option if you want to create a couple of additional rooms.'

'With this type of loft conversion you often do not need planning permission,' adds Ian Garner, project coordinator at Absolute Lofts. 'What’s more, because there are no large alterations made to the roof, it is likely to help keep the cost of the conversion down.'

Average cost: From £50,000

Pros of rooflight conversions

Cheapest
Least disruptive
Usually classed as Permitted Development
Relatively quick to complete

Cons of rooflight loft conversions

Limited headroom
Not suitable for all types of loft, such as trussed

Dormer loft conversions

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

This is another incredibly popular and widely-seen type of loft conversion, suitable for most roof constructions. If you are wondering if you need planning permission for a loft conversion then this is a style that usually falls under permitted development.

'This is the most popular type of loft conversion we work on and usually doesn’t require planning permission (although it’s always worth checking this),' says Rob Wood. 'It can provide up to 50 cubic metres of additional space and lots of head height.'

'A dormer loft conversion involves installing a box shaped structure into the pitched roof (sloped roof) of your home,' picks up Ian Garner. 'The right-angles of the dormer create a flat rather than sloped roof, giving you ample headroom and classic room shape dimensions. As the main windows face directly outwards, a dormer lets in lots of natural light and offers great views of the outside.'

There is actually not just one type of dormer loft conversion, making it a versatile option too.

Flat roof dormer: These are a common type of dormer with, as the name suggests, a flat roof. They typically sit to the rear of a house and extend the full width of the building.
Side dormer: These are added to the side of a sloping roof. 'They are ideal for adding space to a property where the roof ridge runs from the front to the back of the home,' says Ian Garner.
Front pitched dormer: These are small dormers with pitched, rather than flat, roofs.
L-shaped dormer: These involve two dormers that are connected to create an L-shape – perfect for creating bigger spaces.

Average cost: From £55,000

Pros of dormer loft conversions

Leaves you will a full-height space
Allows for the use of standard, vertical windows
Makes it possible to fit patio doors and balconies
Lots of design flexibility
Often won't require planning permission

Cons of a dormer loft conversion

More expensive than rooflight conversions
May not feel as light as conversions lit by rooflights, depending on the angle of the roofline

Hip-to-gable loft conversions

(Image credit: Absolute Loft)

Hip-to-gable loft conversions are suitable for most types of properties with a hipped roof – one that has all its sides sloping equally downwards from the top to the vertical walls.

'The loft space is constructed by turning one of the sides of the hip roof into a gable roof, creating a triangular-shaped, vertical end wall,' explains Ian Garner. 'The new gabled section of roof creates additional height and floor space for the new loft room.'

'You can even add a dormer to this, combining the two conversion types for an extra large space,' adds Rob Wood.

You can sometimes create this type of loft conversion using Permitted Development but you'll need to check with your local planning office.

Average cost: From £60,000

Pros of hip-to-gable loft conversions

Perfect for creating large new spaces
Lots of headroom
Adds considerable value to a property

Cons of hip-to-gable loft conversions

More structural work needed
Not suitable for terraced homes
Expensive
May require planning permission

Mansard loft conversions

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

If your extension ideas require you to get the very most space from your loft conversion, this is the option for you.

'If you’re seeking to super-size your loft space, a mansard loft conversion is the largest loft renovation you can choose,' says Ian Garner.

'A mansard conversion is typically built to the rear of your property and has a horizontal roof with an almost vertical 72-degree back wall,' continues Ian. 'Windows are usually housed within a box-shaped dormer which project slightly, enhancing internal space even further and allowing natural light to flood in.'

A double mansard is another option, whereby a mansard is added to both the front and rear of the house, essentially creating a whole new storey.

Average cost: From £69,000.

Pros of mansard loft conversions

Add almost a whole new storey to a house
Suitable for all kinds of house, including terraced
Allow in lots of natural light

Cons of a mansard loft conversion

Most expensive
Usually needs full planning permission

Modular loft conversions

(Image credit: Moduloft)

Right up there at the top of the price scale, but also one of the best ways to get tonnes of extra space, lie modular loft conversions.

In reality, no conversion really takes place. Rather, the entire roof of the house is lifted away to be replaced with a prefabricated structure, complete with walls (exterior and interior), floor and new roof. Often, these structures can also be specified with radiators, lights, sockets and switches, radiators and even stairs if you wish. Plasterboarding and skimming will also often be included.

Although this all sounds terribly disruptive when compared to building an extension, as most of the work is carried out off-site, ready to be craned into place, it actually makes the whole thing simple and very speedy. As everything is agreed upfront, the chance of any hidden costs is reduced too.

Average cost: From £53,000

Pros of modular loft conversions

Fixed price agreed upfront
Speedy build times
Adds lots of value to a house
Suitable for all kinds of roof constructions
Considerable space added (a whole new storey, in fact)

Cons of modular loft conversions

Expensive
Require planning permission
Access needed for cranes and delivery lorries
Less design flexibility than some other types

FAQs

What's the cheapest type of loft conversion?

If you were hoping to keep a lid on your extension costs and want to convert your loft on a budget, the best option will be a rooflight (aka skylight or Velux) loft conversion.

'This is one of the simplest and most cost effective loft conversions to build as the roof of the property is not altered in any way and only windows are added,' explains Rob Wood.

If you are after more ways of adding space to your home without extending, there are loads of garage conversion ideas worth checking out too.

What do you do with stuff in your loft if you want to convert it? I’ve got 5 expert-approved solutions for you to try

Sarah Handley — Tue, 13 May 2025 13:00:00 +0000

If you find yourself dreaming of extra living space, converting your loft might be the answer.

But for many homeowners, when you get into the nitty gritty of planning a loft conversion, reality sets in. You realise that your loft is actually prime storage space for all that stuff that you haven't really got space for anywhere else. So where on earth are you going to put it?

Don't forget too that you may need to sacrifice some existing space to make way for your loft conversion stairs, which means you have more stuff than you thought that needs to be stored somewhere.

The good news is there are a few solutions worth considering that could alleviate your loft conversion woes.

Before you convert your loft

(Image credit: Future/Rachael Smith)

While there is plenty to think about when bringing your loft conversion ideas to life, from whether your loft is suitable for conversion in the first place to the rules and regulations you'll need to adhere to, you'll also need to prepare the space.

And if you've been using your loft for storage, this does mean you'll need to bring it all down and have a good clear-out using one of these decluttering methods.

Once you've decided what you want and need to keep and what can be donated, sold or recycled, you'll have a clear idea of just how much alternative storage space you'll need with the loft out of action.

Alternative storage solutions after a loft conversion

If you can no longer use your loft for storage, then depending on your property, there are other options you could consider.

1. Use your garage

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you have a garage, attached to an older house, then chances are it's too narrow to fit a modern car. And if that's the case, it's the perfect location for storage, especially as it means you won't lose any garden space.

It's a good idea to invest in some shelving units, storage boxes and have a labelling system in place so that the storage functions as best it can.

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Depending on what you want to store in your garage, hooks could be a great addition to your storage set up. They'll keep things off the floor and away from critters or potential water damage.

2. Get a shed

(Image credit: Future PLC / David Giles)

Depending on the size of the items you want to store, installing a shed might be exactly what you need.

You'll want to choose something durable and weatherproof to keep your belongings safe from the elements. Check our guide to where to buy a shed for some tips on the best place to part with your cash.

3. Optimise storage in other rooms

(Image credit: Future PLC/Oliver Gordon)

If you want to store your items indoors and not in the shed or garage, then you'll need to make sure you're getting the most out of the indoor space you do have.

Furniture expert and founder of Retrovintage, Stuart Murray, says: ‘A good place to start is by using multi-functional furniture, especially in spaces that need to do double duty. Think storage ottomans, beds with drawers, or shelves that can be customised to hold a variety of things.'

If you have an understairs cupboard, or can incorporate one into your new loft conversion stairs, this can provide excellent storage space.

(Image credit: Future PLC)

But it's important to configure the space effectively so they don't quickly spiral out of control. Decluttering experts Ingrid Jansen and Lesley Spellman from The Declutter Hub say: 'Common problems include overstuffing, inaccessibility, lack of light and unfinished flooring, making these spaces feel dark and uninviting, encouraging more clutter.

'While bespoke storage solutions exist, stackable boxes and MDF shelving are often more budget-friendly. Use large labels on multiple sides of boxes for easy identification in the awkward space. And if you do have a budget consider getting a joiner to convert your awkward understairs cupboard into pull out drawers which make accessibility and visibility a breeze.'

You can also hunt out those dead spaces, like above wardrobes and bookcases and under beds, that could be used for storage.

Stripe Underbed Storage Bag

Keep things looking tidy with this striped storage bag that'll slot neatly under the bed. The stripes on bang on trend too.

If your budget will allow, you could buy furniture with storage built in, like an ottoman bed or sofa with storage underneath.

4. Factor storage into your loft conversion design

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

It turns out that by converting your loft, you may not lose all the storage potential after all. Don't discount those spaces where the loft head height is too low to be be turned into living space, as this could be a prime storage location.

Similarly, while the sloping ceilings that come with lofts can make it challenging to fit freestanding furniture, a built-in design could maximise your storage potential.

Rachal Hutcheson, national retail manager at Sharps, says: 'Fitted furniture is often the best way to maximise space in a loft conversion. Unlike freestanding pieces, bespoke designs can work with the room’s sloped ceilings and awkward angles to create smart, custom storage solutions.'

'Choosing bespoke not only creates furniture that completely fits the space in your home, but it also maximises all the available storage opportunities,' adds Philipp Nagel, director at Neatsmith.

If your loft is going to be a bedroom, then an ottoman bed is a great shout to keep clutter at bay.

(Image credit: Future)

5. Opt for self storage

If you have items you really can't let go of yet can't store anywhere at home, then you'll need to consider storing them off-site.

Asking a favour of friends or family with available space can be a cost-effective solution, but if that isn't feasible, you'll need to pay for a self storage option instead.

Once you've found a new spot for all of the items in your loft, it's important to keep on top of your clutter. Try one of these trusted organisation systems to keep your home looking its best.

How to get loft conversion stairs right and take your new space to the next level

Natasha Brinsmead — Tue, 06 May 2025 13:00:00 +0000

If you're planning on turning your loft into living space, then one of the first hurdles is how you will get to it – in short, where will your loft conversion staircase go and how do you design a flight that meets all the regulations?

When planning a loft conversion, you not only need to think about the type of roof construction you're dealing with and whether or not planning permission will be granted for what you're hoping to achieve, but also the feasibility of your project.

If you can't access your newly converted space from the storeys below, the whole thing will be a write off – which is where our guide to loft conversion stairs comes in. We asked the experts everything, from the best way to position them to how to overcome any obstacles you might encounter.

What are the rules for loft conversion stairs?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Chris Snook)

Before you even begin to think about staircase ideas for your loft access, it is vital that you make yourself aware of the building regulations surrounding this all-important aspect.

Rob Wood, MD of Simply Loft shares the key points to be aware of:

Loft stairs must have minimum headroom of 2m (can be reduced slightly in limited spaces)
Have a maximum pitch of 42 degrees

Architect Tina Patel from Architect Your Home has some further useful information on loft conversion building regulations for homeowners considering converting their loft.

'The building regulations that cover stairs also outline requirements for handrails, although you can be creative around how these are dealt with,' she begins. 'Although there is no minimum width requirement, we would recommend 90cm wide to be able to comfortably get furniture up – although if limited, you can go for a little less.

'There are also considerations for depth and height for each step – consistency is key here and no step can be taller than 220mm in a domestic setting.'

Finally, fire regulations will need to be observed if you want your loft conversion to meet current standards.

'An important consideration is that of fire, and how someone can escape from the top floor,' explains Tina Patel. 'In most instances (unless you are installing a domestic sprinkler system) where the staircase leads all the way to ground exit level, you will need to have a protected hallway. This can impact doors in hallways too and these should be clear of the top and bottom of stairs. If this will eat up too much space, you can think about the use of sliding doors to help.'

Where's the best place to put your loft conversion stairs?

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

Once you understand the building regulations concerning your loft staircase, you should have clearer idea of the most practical place for it within your loft conversion ideas as a whole.

'Ideally your new stairs will go above the existing staircase below to save space and maintain flow,' picks up Rob Wood. 'If that’s not possible, consider placing them off the landing or within a larger room, for example the main bedroom – but be mindful of your layout.'

'Where you put stairs often depends on a number of parameters,' picks up Tina Patel. 'The starting point would be the layout at first floor level and how much of this you are willing to change, as well as what type of space you want to create in the new loft. For example, if you want two rooms, often a stair through the middle can be a clever way of getting space for storage at the first floor level and maximising rooms in the loft.'

'Whether or not you are adding extra volumetric space at loft level, either by undertaking a hip-to-gable extension or adding a dormer will also have a role to play,' continues Tina.

'If you are in a terrace, the positioning will depend on whether you are extending out to the section to the rear known as an 'outrigger' as well as the main roof – often these two spaces in old Victorian homes in particular can be at different levels so this will impact how a staircase can be positioned as you may need access at both levels.'

Does a loft conversion mean sacrificing a bedroom?

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

Depending on the layout of your first floor, it may well make sense to use either an entire bedroom or at least part of a larger room, to accommodate the new staircase. In many semi-detached and terrace properties, it makes sense to use some small box room ideas for your new stairs.

'Typically, your staircase will go over the one coming up from the ground floor, and in many instances, you may need to pinch some space from one of the first floor rooms to allow for this,' explains Tina Patel.

'This will ensure that you get clear headroom at both levels – clear headroom, under the regulations, means you need to have 2m minimum clearance in a vertical line from each step to the structure above. This can be tight if you do not have a lot of height in the existing loft although there are workarounds, such as using better performing insulation and lowering ceilings at first floor level,' continues Tina. 'It is also worth remembering that you don't need 2m clearance in rooms, only to staircases.

'Normally, we would advise that to comfortably accommodate a staircase, the attic space, before any conversion, from the existing structure in the roof floor to the pitched roof structure should be over 2.4m – this will allow for insulation and increasing the floor thickness, which will most likely be needed since most existing attics are not designed to take the loads needed to become living spaces.'

What space-saving options are there?

If you are really struggling to find space for a standard staircase, when it comes to buying a staircase, bear in mind that there are space-saving staircases to consider.

'If space is very tight, you can consider an alternating stair,' explains Tina Patel. 'These can be real space savers, albeit not great where children may be using the steps as you use one step per foot to get up.'

Another option to consider where space is really limited is a spiral staircase. Providing they adhere to building regs requirements, they can be ideal where floor space is pinched.

What is the best type of staircase for loft conversions?

(Image credit: Architect Your Home)

This really does depend on your layout and the design of your home but, in an ideal world, your loft stairs would match your principle staircase, as well as your hallway ideas.

'We make sure that every new staircase matches the same design, look and feel to the existing staircases,' picks up Ian Garner, project coordinator at Absolute Lofts. 'We’ll even use an existing spindle as a pattern guide to ensure a bespoke finish. This is also the case with the newel posts and handrails, meaning consistent looking staircases throughout that look as though they’ve always been there.'

Rob Wood has some more tips on loft stair design. 'Use turns or spirals to save space and consider adding storage underneath in the form of drawers and cupboards,' he says. This can help if you are worried about where to store the things that were previously stored in your loft.

'Keep the finish light and open to avoid cramping the area too,' adds Rob.

'Generally, in terms of design, think about how you can get natural light all the way down through the stair, either by a tall window or skylight at the top,' suggests Tina Patel. 'If you can, be creative with storage on the landing too.'

FAQs

How will you get furniture to your loft conversion?

(Image credit: Future)

Something many homeowners overlook when planning the perfect loft space is how they will get their furniture into their newly converted loft – big mistake.

There are several different approaches to consider when getting bulkier items of furniture, such as beds, bathtubs and sofas, into a loft conversion.

Perhaps the simplest is to opt for pieces that are supplied flat-packed, ready to be put together in-situ. At the very least, choosing modular furniture that can be broken down into sections should make life easier. You could also consider having custom made storage, such as built-in wardrobes and drawers, that will be constructed within the loft.

If you have fallen in love with a bed or sofa that just can't be taken up the stairs into your new loft space, however, many companies out there have furniture lifts and hoists that make it possible to take large items in through loft windows.

In any case, inform the delivery company of the spatial restrictions so that they know what to expect in advance.

Remember, when budgeting for your loft conversion costs, to include your staircase, as well as any additional costs you might incur by using a delivery company to hoist large furniture into the new space.

Is my loft suitable for conversion? I asked two loft conversion specialists about the potential issues and how to solve them

Natasha Brinsmead — Fri, 02 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

If you are desperate for extra space within your home, then finding out if your loft is suitable for conversion could be worthwhile. And the chances are you'll be pleasantly surprised.

When it comes to planning a loft conversion, the very first thing you need to do is check that this is actually a viable option for you. Sometimes planning stipulations, the structure and size of your current roof and even restricted access space can get in the way of your plans.

That said, there is usually a way to navigate all of these issues. We asked the experts for their advice on how to determine the suitability of a loft for conversion and the issues you may encounter.

Is your loft suitable for conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

There are several reasons why a loft space might not be suitable – or straightforward – to convert.

Factors such as whether your loft features a party wall (one that is shared with your neighbour), loft conversion planning permission requirements, how your roof is constructed and how big it is, whether or not there is space in the rooms below to accommodate a new staircase and so on will all have a role to play.

'The hardest lofts to convert are low-pitch roofs, due to their limited headroom,' begins Rob Wood, MD at Simply Loft. 'Trussed roofs are also tricky as they need structural reinforcement, and with small footprint lofts there is not much usable space even with conversion.'

Despite some lofts being harder to convert than others, there are many types of loft conversion meaning there will usually be a solution.

How much head height do you need for a loft conversion?

(Image credit: Future)

One of the most important things you'll need to look at is the available headroom in your loft space. In fact, ignoring this can be one of the biggest loft conversion mistakes you can make.

'When considering a loft conversion, the first thing to establish is whether the existing height within your roof is tall enough' picks up Ian Garner, project coordinator at Absolute Lofts. 'The general rule of thumb measurement is 2.3m from the top of the existing ceiling joists to the underside of the ridge – the highest point in the middle of the roof.

'If your roof space is lower than this, the current option is to lower the ceilings to the first floor rooms below, allowing for a new structural floor to be installed at a lower level to achieve sufficient height for a loft,' continues Ian, although he goes on to point out that this will affect your loft conversion costs.

'This will mean incurring extra cost as the first floor will require decoration and you may need to move out whilst this section of work is carried out.'

'You could also raise the roof, though this usually requires planning permission,' points out Rob Wood. 'Or use dormers or hip-to-gable designs to boost the usable space.'

What is your existing roof structure like?

(Image credit: Future)

The next thing you need to look at before getting carried away with your loft conversion ideas is the make-up of your roof structure, namely whether it is a cut timber or trussed roof.

'Traditional cut timber roofs are common in pre-1960s homes and are easier to convert,' advises Rob Wood. 'Modern trussed roofs feature in many post-1960s properties and will require extra steel supports, adding to the cost of the conversion.'

This isn't to say that homeowners faced with trussed roofs can't convert their lofts.

(Image credit: Future)

'While trussed roofs offered a quicker and more cost-effective way to build houses, they’ve long been viewed as a barrier when it comes to converting loft space,' explains Ian Garner. 'However, with the right expertise, a trussed roof loft conversion is entirely possible.

'Truss roofs are easy to identify by their distinctive W-shaped framework of timber struts,' continues Ian. 'These criss-crossing beams span the entire loft space and provide structural support by distributing weight across the external walls of the property.

'Unlike traditional roofs, which often have open areas between the rafters and purlins, truss lofts are densely packed with timber, leaving little to no usable space without significant modification,' adds Ian. 'To convert a trussed roof, new steel beams or laminated timber beams are usually installed to support the weight of the new floor and roof. Once these are in place, the internal webbing of the trusses can be safely removed or repositioned.'

Can you convert the loft in a period property?

(Image credit: Funky Chunky Furniture)

If you are the owner of an old house, you could find converting your loft a little more complicated than owners of more modern homes. This is because very old properties may struggle to support the weight of a newly converted loft.

In this case, reinforcement may be required for the rooms below or within the existing foundations.

A structural engineer will be able to advise you here. Although you needn't rule out a loft conversion for a period house, you will need to account for the extra costs that will likely be incurred.

Do you have space for loft stairs?

(Image credit: Absolute Lofts)

You are obviously going to need a way of getting into your loft conversion, so a new staircase will be required meaning you'll need to find space within your first floor layout to construct one.

You will also need to take into account the loft conversion building regulations for new staircases – a tiny ladder isn't going to cut it.

'The new stairs cannot be steeper than 42 degrees, and the width of the staircase has to have a minimum measurement of 600mm,' explains Ian Garner.

Will I need planning approval to convert the loft?

(Image credit: Alternative Flooring)

While most types of loft conversion usually fall within the scope of Permitted Development, there are certain cases, for example if you live in a listed building or within a conservation area, where you'll need to apply for permission before you can begin work.

'The volume and design of the loft conversion must comply with specific criteria, such as not exceeding the maximum roof height and not extending beyond the existing roof space,' explains Rob Wood. 'It is important to consult your local authority’s guidelines along with speaking to a professional or an architect about the size and type of your loft conversion.'

If you live in a listed building, you will almost certainly have to apply for listed building consent if you want to convert your loft.

FAQs

Can you raise the roof for a loft conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

The simplest way to gain extra headroom in your loft is to steal space from the rooms below, lowering their ceiling height to provide that extra height above.

However, if the rooms in question already have low ceilings, this might not be an option, in which case, raising the roof, or carrying out a 'roof lift' conversion might be the only way. However, this may not be feasible if you are trying to convert your loft on a budget.

While it isn't impossible to gain planning permission to increase roof height, it can be tricky and this certainly won't fall within Permitted Development. That said, there are changes in the pipeline that could make this easier.

'A white paper by the previous government recommended allowing a home owner to raise the existing ridgeline by up to 300mm, which would negate having to lower the ceilings in most cases and save on disruption and finance,' explains Ian Garner.

If you find that adding a loft conversion to your home is just going to prove too expensive or disruptive, there are plenty of other ways to add space without extending.

Take a look at how to convert a garage to ascertain whether this might be a better option for you.

8 things you need to know before converting a basement, according to renovation experts

Holly Reaney — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

If you're wondering what you need to know before converting a basement, then it's likely that you're feeling overwhelmed – the more you read, the more you realise you don't know!

To help you on your way, we've rounded up the eight essential elements that will need your attention as you start to plan your project, helping you transform this unused space into an extra room full of characterful features.

The first thing you need to know before converting a basement is the difference between a basement conversion and building a basement. If you have an existing basement, conversion is one of the quickest and easiest ways to extend your home. The whole process can take as little as a few weeks.

On the other hand, excavating a basement is very involved and technical, requiring expertise. Rob Wood at Simply Extend explains that 'a basement build process takes around five months.' It is also significantly more costly than a conversion. If you don't already have a basement, a loft conversion might be a more viable option.

(Image credit: Future / Katie Lee)

Basement room ideas are one of the best ways to create space without altering the exterior of the home. However, it can feel challenging – especially with issues like waterproofing, a lack of natural light and safety precautions all needing due consideration. Getting these areas wrong can be a huge and costly basement conversion mistake. However, once you've figured out what you need to know before converting a basement, you'll likely add value to your home.

‘Converting your basement is thought to add up to 15% to the value of your home — a local estate agent will be able to confirm the added value, so you can work out the cost against the value before starting works,’ says Tim Phillips, quantity surveyor at Quantiv.uk.

You can also find out more at The Basement Information Centre, basements.org.uk, which is a national centre for information about the development and use of basements, and also offers an online database of contractors.

1. Make sure you have enough head height

(Image credit: Future)

Just like a loft conversion, head height is one of the most important things you need to know before converting a basement.

You’ll need a ceiling height of at least 2.7m for a functional room. If you don't already have this, you may need to consider lowering the floor level or raising the ceiling height.

‘Don’t fall into the trap of skimping on floor-to-ceiling height,’ advises William McGuinness, director at UV Architects – getting the room height right the first time will save a lot of money and inconvenience in the long run.

2. Consider ventilation to prevent mould

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

Whether you are looking into kitchen basement conversions or are hoping to create a fun family room, ventilation is a key thing you need to know before converting a basement.

Basements have a bad reputation for being damp and having mould on walls. Not what you want when you've gone to the expense of an extension.

However, factoring in solutions before you start building will ensure that you aren't cursed with an unusable space.

In an ideal world, there would be windows that you could open to air the space – traditional or egress windows add valuable light and provide a fire-safety exit route. If this isn’t possible, installing extractor fans will help air circulation. Regardless of your other ventilation methods, you should also consider adding one of the best dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in the basement.

Dehumidifiers will stop condensation on walls and ceilings and prevent mould. In colder basement conversions, desiccant dehumidifiers are better, while condensing dehumidifiers are a better fit for warmer spaces. Both of them are ideal solutions for getting rid of dampness.

Pro Breeze 10l Desiccant Dehumidifier With Heating Setting

For extra cold areas like garages and basements, it’s worth looking at this desiccant dehumidifier which can work in temperatures as low as 1ºC, drying out these spaces, while also making them feel warmer.

Thermopro Tp50 Digital Thermo-Hygrometer

This affordable device measures the humidity levels inside your home, helping you to make sure you always have the perfect balance.

Meacodry Arete® One 10l Dehumidifier / Air Purifier

This dehumidifier constantly ranks as top in our testing, thanks to its clever features including a laundry mode.

3. Know the rules and regulations

(Image credit: Future/Rachel Whiting)

In most cases, converting an existing basement without any structural work won’t need planning permission as it'll be classed as Permitted Development (PD). However, always check with your local planning authority before starting. Excavating a new basement or extending an existing one will require planning permission.

Building regulations – which cover fire escapes, ventilation and damp proofing – apply to all types of work. If the walls of your basement adjoin those of your neighbours, you will also need to adhere to the Party Wall Act.

4. Factor in waterproofing methods

(Image credit: Future/Jeremy Phillips)

As basements are below ground, groundwater and dampness are inherent problems. This means waterproofing methods are one of the things you need to know before converting a basement. Jack Garratt, consultant surveyor at Garratts Damp & Timber, talks us through the two main waterproofing options.

‘A cavity membrane system involves lining the walls and floor with a membrane and installing subsurface channels to direct groundwater into a sump pump, which removes the water from the property,’ he says.

‘A cementitious system creates a barrier by applying multiple coats of cement-based products to walls and floors. This crystallises to prevent groundwater penetrating.’

Both methods are best installed by professionals who can guarantee the work

5. Know the safety requirements

(Image credit: Future)

When building an extension, safety is essential. Building regulations stipulate fire safety requirements, and a building surveyor or contractor can advise on specific measures for the construction of your basement.

Escape routes are also important – typically, a protected stairwell leading to a main exit. Windows or light wells fitted with fire escape hinges can serve as secondary escapes. Firedoors are a worthwhile investment, even if not legally required. Smoke detectors must be installed and tested regularly – mains-powered is preferred.

6. Figure out your budget

(Image credit: Future PLC /Rachael Smith)

If you're looking for extension ideas that suit your budget, then definitely consider a basement conversion.

Conversions tend to be cheaper than extensions – though it depends on the amount of work required. ‘A typical basement conversion can cost between £1,200–£1,500sq m depending on the level of finish and the end use,’ explains Tim Phillips, quantity surveyor at Quantiv.uk. ‘Adjusting the head height in the room can push the cost to £2,100–£4,000sq m.’

7. Look at lighting solutions

(Image credit: Future/James Mcdonald)

If possible, install windows or lightwells. When your basement is beneath the garden, walk-on glass skylights can light the space below. Artificial illuminating lighting can supplement natural lighting or, when adding windows is impossible, be used independently to create a bright and welcoming space.

‘Flush ceiling lights or uplighters will draw the eye upwards and make the space feel more expansive without claiming any headroom,’ advises Jo Plant, head of design at Pooky.

8. Decide whether installing a toilet is worth it

(Image credit: Ca'Pietra)

Adding a bathroom into a basement is ideal if your bathrooms are on the first floor
– a fair walk from the basement. However, it is not straightforward.

‘Basements can be prone to moisture and damp issues, so ensuring proper waterproofing and adequate ventilation is critical to prevent costly future repairs,’ says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs. ‘Basement toilets often need sophisticated plumbing solutions, like sewage ejector pumps, particularly if the basement is below the sewer line. This adds complexity and cost to the installation but is a necessity when adding a bathroom.’

Where moisture is a problem, also use a dehumidifier in the bathroom to prevent mould. However, it should not be used in place of a bathroom fan.

It's worth noting that a bathroom ‘will only add value if the rest of the room is liveable – if you are creating a guest room and en suite, with some living space, then you’ll often recoup the investment,’ explains Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

FAQs

Do I need planning permission to convert a basement?

In most cases, you do not need planning permission to convert a basement as they will be classed as permitted development. Always check your plans with your local planning authority and consult planningportal.co.uk for more in depth information.

Is it worth converting a basement?

Yes, it is worth converting a basement. If you already have a basement, converting it is a great way to add space without the same high costs and disruption of a full extension. Take into account these things you need to know before converting a basement, and you'll likely add value to your home, too.

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion? Experts say the answer actually depends on these different factors, including where you live

Natasha Brinsmead — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000

If you are looking to expand your home, there are various ways you can do it. But for those looking for additional space upstairs, converting the loft can be particularly ideal. But do you need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Unfortunately, it is not the most straightforward question to answer. If a loft conversion is on your wish list, whether you need planning permission or not will depend on a few different factors. 'The need for planning permission for a loft conversion can vary based on the type of property and its location,' says Rob Wood, managing director at Simply Loft.

If you're set on your loft conversion ideas to add space without extending the footprint of a house (they're usually cheaper to complete than an extension too) then you'll need to understand when you might need planning permission, and when you can move forward without it.

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

This is a complex question to answer, as whether or not you need planning permission to convert your loft will depend on where you live, the specifics of your project and whether your home has undergone significant extensions in the past.

In many cases, you won't need to submit a planning application before you convert a loft. This is because this kind of project is often classed as Permitted Development.

But this isn't a blanket rule, especially if your home is located in a designated zone like a National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So you'll need to check with your local planning authority before you start.

Professional planning consultant Simon Rix, founder of Planix.uk explains: 'To ensure your loft conversion falls under Permitted Development, it’s important to first verify that your home is eligible, taking into account any previous developments or extensions, and whether your home is located in a designated area where such rights don’t apply.'

(Image credit: Future)

It can be a huge mistake to just assume your project will fall within your Permitted Development rights because your neighbour didn't have to apply for planning permission for something similar.

'Certain criteria must be met to qualify, such as ensuring the conversion doesn’t exceed specific size limits or alter the roof's highest point,' adds Simon Rix. 'Even if your project meets these criteria, it's advisable to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate from your local council to confirm that planning permission isn't required. This certificate not only provides peace of mind but also serves as a valuable document for future property transactions.'

Can I convert my loft without planning permission?

(Image credit: Future)

You won't always need planning permission to covert your loft, as it may be classed as Permitted Development instead. In order for your loft conversion project to fall within the scope of PD, it will need to meet a set of strict criteria:

Size: If you live in a terraced house, your design should not increase the size of your roof space by more than 40 cubic metres. In other types of houses, this increases to 50 cubic metres.
Roof height changes: You can't make the existing roof any higher than it is already without planning permission.
Chimney alterations: Without planning permission you can't add, alter or replace any existing chimneys or flues.
Window placement: Under permitted development, any new windows to the side of the conversion must be obscured.
Positioning: Unless you are carrying out a hip to gable loft conversion, your new addition will have to be set back a minimum of 200mm from the eaves. You will also not be allowed to extend the roof more than any existing roof slope that can be seen from the principle elevation.
Balconies: Balconies, with the exception of Juliet balconies, cannot be constructed under permitted development.

However, if your project should have planning permission and you go ahead without it, then that's a different story.

You could submit a retrospective planning application, but there is no guarantee that permission will be granted. By not having the correct permissions in place, you could face a hefty fine, legal action and even end up having to undo all the work, which could leave you thousands of pounds out of pocket.

When will a loft conversion need planning permission?

(Image credit: Future)

If your proposed loft conversion scheme falls outside of the Permitted Development criteria, or you live in a designated area, you will most likely need to apply for planning permission.

'For houses in designated areas, such as conservation areas or those considered listed buildings, additional planning consent is usually required,' explains Rob Wood. 'These areas often have stricter regulations to preserve the character and appearance of the local neighbourhood and community.'

'The design itself must adhere to specific limits regarding the size, materials used and impact on the roof structure,' picks up Simon Rix.

'If your project involves significant alterations, such as with a mansard loft conversion or the addition of a balcony, a full planning application will be necessary. Using a good planning consultant can help navigate these complexities and avoid costly errors, ensuring your project proceeds smoothly.'

'It is important to consult your local authority’s guidelines along with speaking to a professional or an architect about the size and type of your loft conversion,' points out Rob Wood.

FAQs

How do I apply for planning permission for a loft conversion if I need it?

If you find that planning permission is going to be needed for your loft conversion, you can make an application through the Planning Portal or via your local authority's website.

You'll also want to read this tips for securing planning permission first time round to optimise your chances of success (and get you through the process as quickly as possible).

You will need to bear this in mind when budgeting for your loft conversion costs as you can expect fees of around £250 and a service charge of £70.

If you converted your loft without the required consent, you could apply for retrospective planning permission. But this is a huge gamble as there is no guarantee your application will be approved, and you may be required to make changes to, or undo, the work you have done.

Can a neighbour stop my loft conversion?

If you live in a terraced or semi-detached property, might be worried whether your neighbour can stop you from converting your loft.

While they can't stop you from doing the work, provided it meets the criteria of Permitted Development, or that you have the necessary permissions and notifications in place, they can cause delays and stress.

The best way to avoid this is to communicate your plans with your neighbours early on, listen to any concerns they may have, and see if you can reach a mutual agreement that puts their mind at ease without compromising on your plans.

If disagreements arise regarding the party wall, then you may need the help of a party wall surveyor to put them to bed.

Does my loft conversion need building regulations approval?

Regardless of whether your project needs planning permission or not, it will still need to comply with loft conversion building regulations.

'Building regulations cover aspects such as fire safety, structural stability, insulation, ventilation and accessibility,' explains Rob Wood. 'Compliance with these regulations ensures that the loft conversion is safe, energy-efficient, and in line with established building standards.'

If you use an architect or specialist loft conversion company they will help you ensure your project meets all the requirements of building regulations. This could include, for example, adhering to rules around the installation of a new staircase or following fire door regulations.

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Do I need a party wall agreement for a loft conversion?

If your loft conversion involves any walls that are shared with another house, you should get a party wall agreement. This is sometimes the case when a conversion requires a new structural beam to be inserted into the shared wall.

'As well as planning permission for your loft conversion, you’ll also have to consider a party wall agreement before work can begin on your project,' advises Rob Wood. 'This is an agreement amongst neighbours if you share a wall or are close in proximity to your neighbouring properties that the construction is accepted by the neighbour.'

You can either serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbour(s) yourself, or use a Party Wall Surveyor.

Do I need planning permission to board my loft?

If you want to board your loft to use it as storage space, then you won't need planning permission. But if you are worried about the strength of any joists, then it is best to get a professional to assess the space.

Boarding a loft could be tackled by an experienced and competent DIYer, but if you've not done anything like it before, it's definitely best to pay a professional to do it for you.

A loft conversion won't be right for everyone and in some cases building an extension - either single or double storey - is the only way to get the additional space you need.

Even if you decide not to convert your loft into habitable space, you should still make sure it is properly insulated in time for winter.

Are you planning on converting your loft? Let us know in the comments below.

Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion? This is when you do and don’t need it, according to the pros

Sarah Handley — Sun, 28 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Making better use of your home's existing footprint is a cost-effective way to ease space pressures on your home without adding an extension. If you have an attached garage that is used as a dumping ground for stuff you rarely use, then converting it into usable living space could be a sensible move. But do you need planning permission for a garage conversion?

The world of planning permission can be complex as the rules may change depending on where you live and what changes have previously been made to your home. When it comes to converting your garage, in many cases you can do this without submitting a formal planning application, but you should always check before you start building to make sure you don't fall foul of the law.

Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?

(Image credit: Future)

In general, converting an attached garage is one of those projects that you can do without planning permission. This is because the work often falls within the scope of Permitted Development.

However, this is not a blanket rule. If your home is situated in a designated zone, like a Conservation Area or National Park, then your Permitted Development rights may be restricted or removed altogether, which means you would need to apply for planning permission, which will add to your garage conversion costs.

You might also be required to apply for planning permission if your home has already been significantly extended since it was built, as your Permitted Development allocation may have been used up. Similarly, if your property is a new build, there may be limitations in place, so you should always check with your local planning authority.

Remember

Always check with your local planning authority before you start converting your garage to check whether it's classed as PD or if you need to apply for planning permission.

'In most cases, if the work is internal, uses similar building materials to the existing home and does not enlarge the building, then planning permission is not normally needed,' advises Tabitha Cumming, a property expert from The Lease Extension Company.

However, you will need to check with the council that it meets strict height criteria to class as Permitted Development.

You may also find there are also stipulations under Permitted Development in terms of where you can put windows to ensure you don't negatively impact your neighbours privacy. In most cases you can, however, add a window to the front where a door was present before the works, without needing planning consent.

Make sure you adhere to the rules to the letter, otherwise you could give your neighbour cause to stop your garage conversion plans.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Photography)

It is also important to check with your local authority whether there are any planning conditions in place on your property that may stipulate that garages can only be used for parking. If there are such conditions, you will need to apply to your local authority to have them removed.

Any additions at all to the outside of the garage will require planning permission, and if you think this applies to your project, you'll want to read these tips on securing planning permission first time round.

Are the rules different for detached garages?

(Image credit: Future/ David Giles)

If you have a standalone detached garage, then the rules may be slightly different, and you may be required to apply for planning permission to change the use.

This is because the space is separate to your home, and so changes would not count as internal works, and therefore not permissible under Permitted Development.

Does a garage conversion need building regulations approval?

(Image credit: Future)

Even if you don't need planning permission to convert your garage, it will need to meet the requirements of the building regulations on things like ventilation, fire safety, acoustics and thermal performance.

‘Even when planning permission isn’t required, it is still crucial that all applicable building regulations are followed, to ensure the structural integrity of the building is maintained, and there are appropriate provisions when it comes to ventilation, fire safety and insulation,’ says Rob Stone, Managing Director of GarageFlex.

Depending on the specifics of your project, you'll need to submit either a Building Notice or Full Plans application to your local authority's building control department. They will send an officer out at specified points throughout the project to inspect the work and ensure it is compliant and will issue a completion certificate when the work is done to confirm it meets the requirements.

FAQs

Do I need a lawful development certificate?

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

Even if you do not require planning permission to convert your garage, it may be wise to obtain a lawful development certificate.

While not a legal requirement, this piece of documentation essentially proves to your local authority and any future buyers – if and when you choose to sell – that your project was constructed legally. It also protects you if planning policies change between when you converted your garage and when you go to sell your home.

For those who would like that added bit of assurance, this could be a worthwhile option.

What happens if I convert my garage without the necessary permissions?

If it turns out that you should have applied for planning permission to convert your garage and you didn't, you could seek retrospective planning permission to gain consent after it has been built. However, this is a real risk. After all, there is no guarantee that consent will be granted and you could find yourself facing a hefty fine or having to undo the work completely.

Similarly, if you build without building regulations sign off, you could be prosecuted, face fines, have to fork out to change non-compliant work, or have to undo the work in its entirety. It could also jeopardise your chances if you want to sell your home in the future, as well as negatively impacting your home's value.

On top of all of that comes a whole load of stress that could be avoided by checking with your local authority and securing the necessary permissions before you start.

If your garage is also connected to your neighbour's home, you may need a party wall agreement in place.

15 garage conversion ideas to transform this chronically underused area into valuable living space

Sarah Handley — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

If your home is feeling cramped and claustrophobic, then making better use of what you already have can help ease those space pressures. That's where these garage conversion ideas come in.

After all, most garages are too small to fit modern cars, and end up being dumping grounds for those items that are only used a few times a year.

But before you get into the nitty gritty of how to convert a garage, it's important to have a plan for how you want to use the additional square footage so you can determine how much your garage conversion will cost. If you're in need of a bit of inspiration, we've got you covered.

1. Retain storage space with a partial garage conversion

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you are worried about losing valuable storage space by converting your garage, then it is possible to only convert part of the garage and leave some of it as is.

Usually, it is the back part of the garage that is converted, and the front (with the garage door) remains as a storage solution, with a wall separating the two.

For homes with a double garage, you could convert half into additional living space and still have a single garage to use as storage.

2. Open it up to create a large kitchen diner

(Image credit: Future/Katie Lee)

If your garage is located next to your existing kitchen, a conversion could give you the ideal opportunity to create a spacious kitchen diner, by removing the walls between the two.

For real wow-factor impact, you could combine the garage conversion with a whole ground floor remodel to utterly transform the space and make it work better for your lifestyle.

Using an architect or designer will help you make the most of the additional space. Thomas Oldham, co-founder of UK Construction Blog, says: ‘Speaking with a designer or architect early on is a smart move. They’ll help you figure out how to make the space functional and compliant with building regulations. This can include adjusting access, rethinking how the new room connects to the rest of the house, and making the most of any natural light.’

3. Convert a detached garage into an annexe

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Got a detached garage? That could become a standalone annexe that could be used as a granny flat for elderly relatives, an independent option for older children still living at home, or as a space for guests.

Planning permission for garage conversions can be complex, especially if the garage is detached and if you want to use it as accommodation so make sure you check the rules carefully before you start any building work.

4. Maximise space by extending over the garage at the same time

(Image credit: Future PLC/Photoword)

If you live in a house and want additional space both upstairs and down, you could both convert and extend over the top of the garage. This can be a really effective way to increase the size of your home without losing any precious garden space (like you would with a two storey extension).

This can be a complex project and the level of complexity will depend on the condition of your existing garage and what structural reinforcement is needed.

5. Turn your garage into a second living room

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

If you live in a busy household, a second living room can come in really handy.

Whether you're a parent entertaining guests in one, with children having control of the TV in the other, or you and your partner have really different TV watching habits, having a second lounge space can be transformative.

Other option could be to have one room dedicated to TV watching and the other as a TV-free space.

6. Convert your garage into a kids playroom

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

A playroom to keep kids toys and belongings contained can be a great idea for a garage conversion.

Rather than being closed off completely, incorporating this in an open or broken plan layout can help you keep an eye on the kids while you keep up with day-to-day tasks.

Make sure to include adequate storage and remember, this can be a space that can evolve as your child does.

7. Create a dedicated hobby room in a converted garage

(Image credit: Future)

Hobbies are great, but they can come with their downsides. So having a dedicated space where these hobbies can be enjoyed away from the rest of the house can be a good idea.

If you plan on using the garage conversion for any loud hobbies then soundproofing will be essential.

8. Turn your garage into a multipurpose space

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Photography)

There's no rule to say a your garage can only be converted into one type of space. With stud walls you can create multiple smaller rooms within your garage conversion.

You could incorporate a kids' playroom with a cloakroom or locate both a utility room and home office in a converted garage, or even add a bedroom and en-suite.

9. Convert your garage into a guest bedroom

This comfortable guest bedroom was once a double garage (Image credit: Future / David Giles)

If you don't have a bedroom to spare when guests come to visit, then converting a garage into a guest bedroom can give you the extra sleeping space you need.

Whether you choose a specialist garage conversion company or an architect to come up with the design, they will be able to advise as to how much usable space you will be left with once the roof, walls and floor have been insulated. This will help you determine whether it can be turned into a single bedroom or whether you will have space for a double.

10. Incorporate a cloakroom or shower room in your garage conversion

(Image credit: Future / David Giles)

Adding an additional WC or shower room to your home can be hugely beneficial, especially if you currently live in a one family bathroom household.

It's also really useful if you are converting your garage into a guest bedroom.

This is likely to push your garage conversion costs up though, as you will need to factor plumbing costs into your budget.

11. Carve out space for a home office

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you've squeezed in a home office where it's actually making your home feel cluttered, a garage conversion could provide an ideal and dedicated space for one.

A combination of natural light and artificial lighting will be essential for an office that works all year round. Adding a roof window will maximise the amount of daylight coming in, which will help your concentration levels.

Make sure you add enough plug sockets for any devices you need for work, as well as a sufficient WiFi connection — try this TP Link WiFi range extender from Amazon (£11.99).

12. Convert your garage into a cinema room

(Image credit: Alamy / Andreas von Eidsel)

If you're a movie buff, you could convert your garage into a cinema room. Depending on the size of your garage, you may not have loads of space for a giant sofa, but comfy seating is an absolute must. Black out blinds or curtains on the windows will help you really immerse yourself in whatever you are watching too.

Simon Tcherniak, senior designer at Neville Johnson, says: 'With bespoke fitted furniture we can house any home cinema system, streamlining the cabinetry and adding apertures for high-tech speakers to be mounted or built-in.' You'll need to ensure the space is effectively soundproofed to avoid issues with your neighbours.

13. Put a home bar in your garage conversion

(Image credit: Future PLC / Katie Lee)

According to a survey by Rated People, a home bar was sixth in the list of improvements that home owners want to spend their budget on. So f you love entertaining, then having a bar is a sure fire way to make your home the place to be.

If the size of your garage allows, your home bar could also be a games room for the ultimate Saturday night with friends and family.

14. Make space for a utility or boot room

(Image credit: Future / David Merewether)

Kitchen not big enough for all the white goods required, let alone the vacuum, ironing board, baskets, brooms and other cleaning equipment? Or maybe the noise of your washing machine on the spin cycle ruins the vibe in the hub of your home?

Instead of extending into the garden, consider brainstorming some utility room ideas or a creating a boot room with the garage space. Garages tend to be long and narrow, so this can work well if yours sits beside your kitchen.

Turning a garage into a utility or boot room can make family life much easier, when you have a dedicated space for laundry or storing winter coats, wellies or pet paraphernalia.

15. Convert your garage into a home gym

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you're wondering if you can convert your garage into a gym, it's a resounding yes.

Keep on top of your fitness levels at home by kitting the space out with your favourite equipment, so you can work out how and when you want to without leaving home or paying for a gym membership.

Effective ventilation is key to keep the room feeling fresh and if your budget will stretch, include a shower room in the design too.

FAQs

Do you need planning permission to convert a garage into a room?

Whether you need planning permission for a garage conversion depends where you live and what you want to do. In the case of attached and integral garages, the work will usually be classed as Permitted Development.

If you plan on selling your house, a Lawful Development Certificate will be useful to prove that the work was completed in line with PD stipulations.

The rules can be a little more complex when it comes to detached garages, so always check with the planning department in your area.

How long does a garage conversion take?

Garage conversions tend to be a much quicker route to extra space than an extension, but how long it actually takes will depend on what you are converting the space into, whether it's being opened up to the rest of the home, and the level of structural reinforcement needed.

'We aim to convert a single garage into living space in 10 working days,' says Jonathan Henden, County Garage Conversions. 'A garage with ensuite bedroom is generally 15 days and an annexe 20 days.'

For some more ideas of what not to do, read what happens when someone inherits a garage conversion that hasn't been designed in the best way.

Basement ideas – 15 cellar conversions to inspire your renovation

Thea Babington-Stitt — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 08:51:57 +0000

Looking for inspiring basement ideas? From a wine cellar to an airy kitchen, if you're wondering how to make the most of your conversion, we've got lots of cellar conversion ideas for inspiration.

With the cost of moving on the rise and the hassle of the housing market, we would all rather stay put and improve our homes to accommodate our expanding families and new needs. They allow extra space for a growing family, from a spacious kitchen to a family room, the opportunities are endless.

So, if you aren't going upward and converting your loft then you're definitely going down and building a basement conversion.

Experts at Resi explain more, 'Basements have been gaining popularity in recent years, especially in heavily built-up areas, such as London. Unlike rear/side extensions, they don’t require any green space to be sacrificed, and they can also add on a whole new storey of space, rather than just expanding existing spaces, such as the kitchen.'

'This makes them a great candidate for dramatically increasing the value of your home, providing you can meet the significant upfront costs. Converting existing spaces have comparable costs to extensions, however, if you need to retrofit a basement then you should be prepared to pay at least six figures.'

'As for what a basement might become, there’s plenty for a homeowner to choose from. It helps if you play to the strengths of the space. As they tend to be darker and quieter than the rest of your house, you might use this to your advantage to create either a home cinema room, bedroom, or gym. However, if you did want to make it a lighter, more liveable space, you can opt for skylights to help brighten the room.'

Here are 11 rooms that will have you daydreaming of subterranean hibernation and ways to break through those low lit, low ceiling boundaries and potentially add £50,000 to your home's value to boot. Whichever you choose, just make sure you avoid this basement conversion mistake at all costs.

1. Dig in the garden

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Jonathan Gooch)

Low level or sloping gardens are the perfect places to dig a basement as the flood of natural light and bright colours from the back yard will open up your underground room and allow for easy al fresco dining. Or include steps to the garden in your basement plan if you don't have a low level garden.

2. Contemporise your living space

(Image credit: TBC)

Create a contemporary living room with an open plan basement like this one. The large square footage allows for a multipurpose, multifunction area where all the family can socialise together.

3. Excavate the kitchen

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Everyone from movie stars to interior designers are digging for food in their super swanky kitchen basement conversions.

A basement kitchen is a fantastic and popular choice of conversion as many period properties were built with pokey galley-style ones. Create a feeling of light and space in your basement conversion, with stark white walls and light wood or large tiled flooring and a kitchen island.

4. Lighten your underbuilding

(Image credit: TBC)

Knowing how to bring natural light into a basement conversion will make or break your design.

This bright basement has floor to ceiling windows out to a small, bright courtyard to keep the subterranean room light and spacious.

5. Build glass divides

(Image credit: TBC)

If you want to create separate rooms in your basement but can't afford to chop the light in half then use glass wall dividers like this one. Large mirrors also work wonders by reflecting the light into every nook and cranny.

6. Build an escape

(Image credit: TBC)

Have you already got a family living room but you're now looking for an intimate space for adults? Then head downstairs. This den can be your quiet haven to watch movies and relax without disturbing the sleeping kids upstairs.

7. Dine underground

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

All of the coolest new bars are taking us underground so don't let your dining room be an exception. This stylish spot embraces the low lighting with pink walls and is conveniently situated beside the open plan kitchen.

8. Create a hidden den

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Brown)

For those lucky enough to boast a basement then here is your opportunity to build the ultimate underground snug. Curl up and ignore the traffic, storms and sounds of upstairs with a cosy, low level room.

9. Keep it dark and concealed

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

If your basement lacks the potential to become a light, airy room, embrace its sultry, shadowy characteristics instead. Or to create an light and airy feeling, opt for white walls like in this bright underground bathroom paired with black subway tiles and a white bathroom suite.

10. Add skylights

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Claire Lloyd Davis)

If you are completely underground and have no windows or garden light at all, then skylights are your answer. Listen to the rattle of everyday city life while you hibernate and hunker down underneath your own sky of street light stars.

11. Treat yourself to a tipple

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Mark Bolton)

Who doesn't wish for a wine cellar? Carve out a little grotto and cram it full of your favourite tipple.

Make the most of the space in your basement conversion. With careful planning it can be converted into an all-in-one guest retreat with mini kitchen, bedroom and ensuite.

Before you start on bringing your ideas to life, make sure you understand the basement conversion building regulations you'll need to meet.

How to convert a basement into usable living space (and add value to your home too)

Sarah Handley — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 09:48:29 +0000

If you live in a house with an existing but underused subterranean space, then a basement conversion could be key to a bigger home.

Converting an existing area into a usable part of your home is one of the key ways to add space to your home without extending, which can be really desirable if you don't want to sacrifice any of your precious garden.

However, unlike garage or loft conversions, converting a basement has a unique set of challenges that need to be overcome in order to ensure results that stand the test of time. This is everything you need to know, plus insight from experts, to successfully convert your basement.

What does a basement conversion involve?

(Image credit: Future)

The specifics of what your basement conversion will involve will depend on the scope of your project and how you plan to use the space. For example, to increase the size of an existing basement will involve further excavation, which will add to the timeframe, complexity and overall cost of the work.

Similarly, plans to use the new basement as a kitchen will be more complex than if you plan to create a games room to enjoy with friends and family.

As a general guide, you will need to follow these steps:

Find an architect or basement conversion specialist. They will help to give you a sense of the feasibility of your basement conversion ideas, share solutions you may not have thought of and give you an idea of how much your basement conversion will cost. They will also assemble your team of experts to see the project through.
Set your budget. With any kind of renovation project, a 10-15% contingency fund is a good idea, but as a basement conversions are complex, it's worth setting aside more if you can.
Secure any necessary permissions. Submit a planning application if you are required, or apply for a Lawful Development Certificate. You'll also need to apply for building regs for your basement conversion, so make sure you factor that in too. A Party Wall Agreement may also be required if any of your planned works involve a wall or boundary you share with a neighbour.
Structural work and basement waterproofing. If any excavation is needed, to create additional head-height for example, it will be done at this point, as well as any underpinning of the foundations that may be required. ‘Soil conditions and the water table also need to be properly investigated prior to any detailed design taking place. A clear waterproofing strategy has to be implemented,’ says Siobhan Maguire, associate director at Paul Archer Design. Forgoing this is the ultimate basement conversion mistake, so should be avoided at all costs. As part of the drainage plans, you may need to install a sump and pump system that will collect any water from the ground and pump it away from your basement to keep it dry.
Insulation, heating and ventilation. In order to make a space habitable, it needs to be warm, dry and with a steady supply of fresh air. Work with your specialist to choose the right options for your space and budget. You can also use our guide to basement ventilation and how to insulate a basement to understand your choices.
First fix electrics and plumbing. This step should be left to a professional to ensure the work is carried out safely.
Build any required stud walls, prep the ceiling and plaster. If you are looking to keep costs low and you are a skilled DIYer, it's possible to complete this step yourself.
Lay the flooring. Again, if this falls within your skillset, you could install the flooring yourself.
Second fix electrics and installation of any skirting, coving or built in furniture.
Final touches and decorating. This tends to be the most comfortable point that homeowners are happy to jump in rather than relying on professionals.

Do you need planning permission for a basement conversion?

(Image credit: Future)

Whether or not you need planning permission for your basement conversion will depend on where you live and what your plans are.

If you live in a designated zone, like a conservation area, or a listed building, it's highly likely you will need planning approval. Even if you don't need planning permission, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate, which will be useful if you plan on selling your home down the line.

Always check with your local planning authority before you start work to ensure you stay on the right side of the law.

How much does a basement conversion cost?

(Image credit: Future PLC)

There are a lot of variables involved with a project like this and so it can be hard to give an exact answer as to how much your basement conversion will cost. The price per square metre could range from £750 to £3,000, or even up to £6,000 when you include fitting out the space and any finishing touches.

Depending on the work required to convert your basement, it may not be possible for you to live at home while it's carried out. That means you'll also have to budget for alternative accommodation.

Is a basement conversion worth it?

With basement conversion prices high, it's important you consider whether it's a financially worthwhile project.

In the first instance, speak to a trusted estate agent to get a sense of how much value your basement conversion could add to your property. Alan King from estate agent Jackson-Stops & Staff explains 'a basement room can add £10,000 to £60,000 to the value of your home.'

If you are looking to make a financial return on your project investment, especially if you are planning on selling in the future, you'll want the value you add to be more than the project cost.

This is usually easier in urban areas, where space is at a premium.

If you are concerned that you might not make your money back, then weigh up the cost and potential value added against other projects, such as a garage conversion, loft conversion, or a single or two-storey extension.

What can you convert a basement into?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

There are plenty of uses for a converted basement, so it's worth carefully thinking about how this area could ease space pressures on the rest of your home.

Popular choices include:

Adding space for home entertainment, such as a games room or home cinema.
Creating a home office to keep work and home as separate as possible.
If you have younger kids, a playroom can help keep all their toys contained.
A basement kitchen could also be a worthwhile alternative to a kitchen extension.
Moving a utility room or adding copious storage can help free up space on the ground floor.
An additional living room or guest bedroom are popular, especially if you bring in loads of natural light.

How to bring in natural light to a basement conversion

It's important to consider how you will bring natural light into your basement conversion. so that the new space feels fresh and spacious, rather than dark and dingey.

‘When converting, our main aim is to find clever ways to bring light through to the lower levels' says architect Alan Crawford of The Crawford Partnership. ‘This can be done by in incorporating a light well to create a visual connection to the world above. Even a small skylight that allows a glimpse of blue sky can make all the difference.'

If the space allows, you could even create a sunken garden to be enjoyed from your basement room, with some bifold or sliding doors to flood the area with daylight.

Other key considerations

Beyond ensuring plenty of natural light, there are other key factors that you'll need to work on with your architect or designer when planning the space.

Stairs. You might want to revamp your existing access to the basement, and your designer will be able to explain your available options and their associated costs
Fire safety and escape routes. With any conversion, whether it's below ground or above, fire safety and methods of escaping in the event of a fire should be priority considerations. The building regs will stipulate what is required, and when the work is to be assessed and they will provide sign off and a completion certificate.
Ceiling heights. Ideally, the ceiling height in your converted basement will match that of the rest of your home, but if that head height is not available in the first place, you may need to excavate in order to lower the floor, which can add to the complexity of the project.
Laying out the space. You'll need to decide whether you want your basement to be a largely open plan space or a series of separate rooms. The benefit of an open-plan layout is that you give natural light the best chance of penetrating, rather than cutting it off with stud walls.
Where to live. Depending on the specific process required for your basement conversion, you may not be able to (or want to) live at home while the work is done. Research alternative accommodation early on to ensure a smooth transition.

FAQs

How long does a basement conversion take?

(Image credit: Future PLC)

As with the cost of your basement conversion, the timeline will also depend on what the project involves.

A simple single-room conversion, could take as little as two to three weeks, but if you plan on excavating further and the foundations need underpinning, those few weeks could become months.

Is a basement conversion a good idea?

If you have an existing basement, need more space, and have already converted the garage and loft (or they are not right for conversion), then converting it into usable living space can be a good idea.

If you plan on selling your home in the future, you'll need to determine whether the value added outweighs the cost to undertake the work. If you don't plan on moving, then having more space, without having to extend, might be where the value lies for you.

If you don't already have a basement, or you have a small cellar that you would need to extend in order to make it usable, then the cost of excavating and underpinning might make the project a bit of a non-starter. Building a new basement, or significantly enlarging a smaller one, is probably only a good idea if you live in a city where space is at a premium and property values are high enough that you can recoup the costs.

Can I convert a basement myself?

While there are some parts of a basement conversion product that you could undertake on a DIY basis (like building stud walls, laying flooring or decorating), the majority of the work will need to be undertaken by fully-qualified professionals with bags of experience.

This is down to the complexities around waterproofing and potential structural reinforcement, which if you attempt and get wrong could not only be costly to remedy, but could pose serious health and safety risks.

If you're keen on a conversion like this, make sure you're aware of the things you should know before you convert a basement to avoid any costly errors.

How much does a loft conversion cost? I break down what you should budget, and how much more you’ll pay if you live in London

Natasha Brinsmead — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 05:46:04 +0000

Converting your loft can ease space pressures on your home, and add value, without needing to change the overall footprint. But a key factor for anyone wanting to tackle a project like this will be to determine how much a loft conversion costs.

With so many different loft conversion ideas possible, the costs can vary wildly. But I've spoken to loft conversion experts to reveal how much the different options will cost. I've also looked at how this cost can change depending on where you live in the country, and reveal how much more you can expect to pay if you live in London.

If any of the figures make your eyes water, I've also shared my advice as an experienced renovator on what you can do to lower the price.

How much does a loft conversion cost?

(Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson)

'An average loft conversion cost can range anywhere from £50,000 - £90,000 and upwards,' explains MD of Simply Loft Rob Wood. 'The typical cost of a loft conversion is based on many factors such as size, type of loft, where you are located in the UK and any internal specifications that are required such as windows, doors, bathrooms etc.'

For example, if you are planning a loft conversion to be a new principle bedroom suite with bathroom within the conversion you will need to factor in plumbing, making it a more expensive project than if you just want to use it as a hobby room.

The price may also be affected by how suitable your loft is for conversion.

We asked Rob how much homeowners can expect to pay for different types of loft conversions. All of these estimated costings include VAT.

A rooflight conversion starts at around £50,000
L-shaped conversions start at around £50,000
A rear dormer loft conversion begins at £55,000
A hip-to-gable loft conversion starts at £60,000
A mansard loft conversion starts at £69,000.

However, if you live in London, you can expect to pay around 20-25% more than elsewhere in the country. This is due to higher labour and material costs, and potential challenges that come along with access to deliver materials or undertake the work.

To illustrate this further, let's take a couple of examples. Resi states that a mid-range, average size (45m2) rooflight conversion outside of London will cost an average of £57,500 to build. However, for the same thing in London, you can expect to pay about £70,000 for the construction (not including VAT).

For a hip-to-gable loft conversion, with no dormer, and of the same size and spec, would cost around £72,500 outside of London, rising to £92,500 if you live in the capital.

A mansard loft conversion, outside of London would have average build costs of £72,500, according to Resi, whereas the same thing inside London would cost around £87,500.

What is the cheapest type of loft conversion?

(Image credit: Simply Loft)

The cheapest type of loft conversion is a rooflight loft conversion, which should definitely be considered if you want to convert your loft on a budget. 'This is the cheapest method as it does not alter the structure of your loft roofline,' says Rob Wood. 'However, whilst this is the cheapest type of loft conversion, it may not maximise the space potential of your loft.'

Adding a dormer window might add to the costs, but could be absolutely worth it if it provides you with additional usable floorspace.

What's the most expensive type of loft conversion?

A mansard loft conversion is usually the most expensive type of project, but costs can also go even higher with a high spec modular loft conversion (where the room is assembled off-site and craned into place).

If you live in a home with a flat roof, you might think a loft conversion is impossible. But as Rob explains, it may be more possible than you think. However, it's not cheap. 'The most expensive type of lofts to build are London Valley (butterfly) roofs or flat roofs, where there is no loft cavity to convert i.e. you are effectively doing a second floor extension,' he points out. 'These start at around £80K upwards depending on size.'

What can affect the cost of your loft conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

Effective budgeting is key if you want to avoid loft conversion mistakes. If you are trying to cost your loft conversion project, you'll need to take various factors into consideration.

Where you live. Converting a loft in London will cost 20-25% more than other parts of the UK.
Type of property. The loft in a terraced property may be smaller in area than a detached house, but it could be a more challenging project, which would affect the price.
Roof pitch and structure. If you live in a house with a steeply pitched roof, you might have enough head height in order to go for a cheaper type of conversion. However, if your roof has a shallow pitch, you will need to opt for something more expensive to make the space usable. When it comes to structure, trussed roofs can be more complex to convert, which can mean additional costs.
What you want to use the new space for. If you’re interested in attic bathroom ideas or in adding a kitchen into your loft this will put up the price due to the extra expertise and labour required. Rob adds: 'Budgeting for your loft conversion all depends on the type of transformation you desire. For example, if no exterior alterations are needed it will be cheaper.'

How can you lower loft conversion costs?

(Image credit: Veronica Rodriguez)

Thankfully, whatever type of loft conversion you want, there are ways of cutting costs.

In fact, Checkatrade estimates that costs can come in as low as £27,500 for a 30m2 skylight loft conversion. If that's closer to your available budget, then make sure you follow these tips.

Shop wisely

'You can alter the price of your conversion by choosing cheaper fittings, such as your windows and doors,' explains Rob Wood.

'Avoid using blockwork or brickwork for any of the side walls of the loft,' further advises Rob Wood. 'Try and use stud work (wood) clad in tiles as this is more economical and quicker to build.' Some types of exterior cladding will also be cheaper than others, so do your research.

Stick to the plan

'You should also try to avoid changing your mind midway through a project,' continues Rob. 'The more changes you make, the longer the build will take and the more it will cost. You should aim to agree on as much of the scope with a contractor before signing up.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

DIY where you can

With any kind of renovation project, you can save money by doing some elements on a DIY basis. But it's crucial that you only attempt tasks that are within your capabilities, otherwise you could end up paying more to get a professional in to rectify your mistakes.

Keep glass to a minimum

'And, finally, avoiding lots of windows and expensive glazing in a loft conversion will also help to keep costs lower, although we do recommend a minimum of two to three windows to keep the conversion feeling bright,' concludes Rob.

FAQs

Is a loft conversion cheaper than an extension?

If you are considering building an extension instead of converting your loft you will be interested to learn that, in most cases, it is cheaper to convert a loft than build an extension. The cost of building the average extension lies somewhere between £1,500-£2,250/m². Loft conversions come in at lower than this, starting from around £900/m2, although they can rise to £2,500 in some areas and for some designs.

Unlike extensions, lofts are relatively self-contained in the early stages of building. They can be accessed from the outside – meaning you can continue living in the house while work is underway. Consider this a cost-saving bonus, there are no temporary extra living expenses to factor in.

Will a loft conversion add value?

When determining whether a loft conversion will add value, you might also be weighing up whether that's a better option than moving to a different property that may better suit your needs.

According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the cost of the average basic loft conversion equates to one third of the cost of moving to a new property with an extra room. The Institution also predicts it could increase the value of your home by approximately 25 per cent.

As well as loft conversions, there are other brilliant ways to add space without extending – sometimes a remodel of the existing layout can help. You should also take a look at some brilliant garage conversion ideas – you might just find you have the space you need for that extra guest bedroom after all.

Phil Spencer reveals the ‘key’ thing you must get right when converting a loft to add value to your home

Rebecca Knight — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 06:45:17 +0000

A loft conversion is one of the best ways to add value to your home. However, Phil Spencer warns there is one thing you have to get right with a loft conversion, otherwise the project could just be a waste of money.

The property guru regularly battles it out with co-presenter Kirsty Allsopp on Channel 4’s Love it or List. The pair compete to see whether they can persuade a family that they are better off improving their current home with the help of Kirsty, or shopping around for a new one with Phil.

(Image credit: Future plc)

While the Location, Location, Location star is often supportive of moving over renovating, there is one property conversion he is in favour of - a loft conversion.

According to Nationwide a loft conversion with a double bedroom and bathroom can boost the value of a three-bed property by 20 percent. However, the property expert warns this is only the case if it is done right.

Phil Spencer loft conversion tip

‘It stands to reason that the bigger your property is, the more it should be worth so extensions are very very good news,’ Phill explained in a video for Rated People on YouTube in 2016 about loft conversions.

‘They are good news in terms of longevity and that length of time that the property will suit you and fit you. They are also good news in terms of how much you'll enjoy living there and they're also, of course, good news in terms of the value-added,’ he said listing the values of a loft conversion.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

However, he pointed out that there are a few key issues you have to think about before converting a loft. Get these wrong and you could be forking out a lot of money for a big mistake.

‘Obviously, head height is a key issue to get right,’ says Phil. ‘Bear in mind if you're converting what is an uninhabitable room you may need to strengthen the floor joists. In doing so you can lose head height and also lose head height because you'll need to insulate the ceiling.’

‘These are things that need a careful exploration and kind of pre-planning,’ he advises.

He also points out that you will need to consider the landing beneath the new loft. ‘You'll lose space on the landing beneath your new loft in order to get the access point on the stairway up there,’ he explains.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

‘The stairways, access into the loft are absolutely vital to get right. Make sure, if you possibly can. That it feels like it was always there.’

If you are considering a loft conversion, Attic conversion experts at Abbey Lofts agree with Phil Spencer that space is everything if you want to justify the expense. They say that the maximum value increase of 20 to 25 percent will only be achieved if you are able to create the perfect self-contained sleeping space’ in your attic.

When it comes to planning a conversion if you can’t comfortably stand up in the room, or don't have the space to include an ensuite, save your money.

I’m a renovation expert and this is how I’d plan a loft conversion in 10 steps

Sarah Handley — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 12:09:13 +0000

Planning a loft conversion can be a complex process, but getting it right is essential if you want a project than runs smoothly and a successful result.

And it's well worth considering some loft conversion ideas as a solution to a home that's not currently meeting your needs. If there's one thing I've learned in my years of experience as a homes journalist writing about renovation, is that the most cost-effective way to add space to your home is to make better use of the space you already have.

Here I break down where you should start with a loft conversion, what options are available to you, how long it takes, as well as answering the common FAQs that homeowners have before taking on a loft conversion.

How to plan a loft conversion

(Image credit: Future PLC/Brent Darby)

These are the steps and decisions you can expect to make when converting a loft. By following these, you can plan effectively and hopefully dodge common loft conversion mistakes that could leave you dissatisfied with the final result and out of pocket.

1. Check your loft is suitable for conversion

Before you get your heart set on a loft conversion, you need to assess whether your loft is suitable for conversion in the first place. You will usually rely on a loft conversion expert to determine this for you, but it never hurts to be as clued up as you can be.

‘Most properties will be suitable for a loft conversion as long as the loft measures 2.3m at the highest point. Other features that will help you decide whether your loft space is suitable are the pitch of the roof, the type of structure, and obstacles, such as water tanks or chimney stacks,’ explains John Allen, managing director at Econoloft.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)

Pre-1960s buildings are often the easiest to convert, thanks to their steep roof pitch and traditional framed roof.

On the other hand, post-1960s properties often have a more complex trussed roof structure. It's not impossible to convert a roof like this, but it's a more complicated process, which will usually make it more expensive.

Regardless of the property you live in, there will always be structural considerations to be made. Most lofts need additional support from steel beams to strengthen the floor and roof. Foundations should also be checked to make sure they are fit to support the additional load. If not, then a structural engineer will be needed to determine the best solution.

2. Choose your loft conversion route

Loft conversions are complex projects so it's best to use a professional. You could use an architect or architectural designer for your loft conversion, or you could opt for a specialist loft conversion company instead.

Whoever you choose, make sure you ask the following questions:

Do you need planning permission for a loft conversion?
Do they have public liability insurance and what does this cover?
Are they registered with an official trade body?
Are they registered with a competent person scheme. Will they take care of all planning permissions / building regulation approvals?
Do they offer insurance-backed warranties?
How long have they been trading for?
Can they give you up to 3 references of recent work they’ve completed?
Do they use sub-contractors or their own employees?
What experience do their sub-contractors/employees have and are they covered by insurance?

Don't be afraid to contact their previous clients. The likelihood is that if they are pleased with the result they'll want to shout it from the roof tops, and if not, they'll definitely let you know!

(Image credit: Future)

3. Find out what permissions you need

The next step is to find out whether you need planning permission for your loft conversion and get to grips with the building regulations you'll need to meet.

In many cases, you will be able to convert your loft under Permitted Development (PD) which means you won't need to apply for planning permission.

However if you live in a listed building or a designated zone, like a Conservation Area or National Park, then you will need to apply for planning permission for your loft conversion. This is because your PD rights may have been restricted or removed altogether. It's best to check with your local authority before you begin to make sure.

If you want to build something that goes beyond PD criteria, then you will also need planning permission. These criteria include:

Materials must be similar to those used in the existing house.
The size should not exceed the original roof space by more than 40 cubic metres for terraced houses or 50 cubic metres otherwise.
The conversion must not exceed the height of the existing roof.
The eaves of the original roof are maintained (or reinstated).
You will need planning permission to include verandas, balconies or raised platforms.

Loft conversion building regulations will apply regardless of whether you need planning permission or not. If your loft conversion takes your home's usable space over three floors, then you will also need to adhere to fire door regulations.

If you live in a semi-detached or terraced property, then you may also need to have a party wall agreement in place. If you're worried your neighbour might stop you converting your loft, we asked the legal experts where you stand and what you can do.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

4. Work out your budget

Cost is a hugely influential factor when it comes to any kind of renovation, and a loft conversion is no different. So you'll need to determine how much a loft conversion costs to see what you can afford.

If you want to convert your loft on a budget, the cheapest type of loft conversion is a rooflight loft conversion (sometimes called a VELUX loft conversion), which doesn't involve any external alteration to the roof, apart from the addition of a rooflight or two.

The most expensive type of loft conversion would be a mansard loft conversion.

The size of your loft will understandably influence the cost, as will the type of property you live in and the specification you choose.

Detached homes can be relatively straightforward, but terraced properties, with their potential access issues and the fact they share walls with neighbouring properties, can see costs totting up.

5. Decide on the type of loft conversion

The best type of loft conversion will largely be influenced by your budget, current roof structure and the amount of space you are looking to create. Your loft conversion company will be able to advise on the best option for your home.

In homes that already have a steeply pitched roof, a simple rooflight loft conversion could easily be possible. If your roof pitch isn't as steep, then you might need to create additional headspace by adapting the shape of the roof, which will increase the amount of usable floorspace, with a dormer or mansard loft conversion.

6. Determine how long your loft conversion will take

(Image credit: Future)

How long a loft conversion takes will depend on the type of loft conversion you opt for, where you live and whether there are any unforeseen issues along the way. Somewhere in the region of three to four months is reasonable.

For the build itself, you are looking at anything from about four weeks for a rooflight conversion, about six for a dormer and up to eight weeks for a mansard loft conversion.

Add on to that between two and four weeks to finalise the design, around 12 weeks for planning permission and party wall agreements (if required), and another couple of weeks for finishing touches.

However, if there are planning concerns, material shortages or inclement weather, these can all cause delays to your project.

7. Assess the level of disruption you could face

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Fortunately, the disruption caused by a loft conversion is relatively minimal as most of the work will be contained to the loft space (and accessed from the outside with scaffolding) for the majority of the project. But it's still a building project, so some disruption is to be expected.

‘If structural changes are required, such as installing new beams or reinforcing the floor, it may involve some noise, dust, and temporary inconvenience, and if a bathroom or additional electrical wiring needs to be installed, there may be some disruption to existing services. However, experienced contractors can often minimise this by careful planning and co-ordination,’ says Daniel Kerley, company director at Loft Living.

If the project becomes too disruptive, you may want to decamp elsewhere if you can until the work is complete.

8. Decide on how to heat, ventilate and insulate a loft conversion

You'll need to check that your existing boiler can cope with the additional heating and hot water demand. If not, you will need a new one.

Water pressure will be a key consideration too. ‘You’ll need to check your water pressure. Adding in an extra floor means water has further to travel upwards which can cause issues. This can easily be alleviated by installing a pump to generate water pressure: you’ll need to know before plumbing things in whether a pump is required,’ says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs.

We all know that hot air rises, which means lofts can get warm. Having an openable window at each end of the new space can help provide decent air flow.

When it comes to insulation, there are two options, but Building Control will specify the type you need.

The cold roof method. This involves filling the space between the rafters with 7cm-thick slab foam insulation, with a 5cm space between the roof felt and the insulation for ventilation. Then a 3cm of slab insulation is then attached to the inside of the rafters. This gives a total of 10cm of insulation. The roof section of the loft conversion will require 30cm of mineral wool insulation, or 15cm of slab foam insulation.
The warm roof method. This method involves installing 10cm of insulation on top of the rafters, and a covering capping, followed by the tile battens and tiles. This is only really an option if the roof covering has been stripped off, like when a dormer is being added. The dormer walls can be insulated with 10cm Celotex between the studwork.

9. Choosing loft conversion stairs

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Chris Snook)

Whether you choose an architect or a loft conversion company to create a new room in the loft, they will be able to advise on the best place for your loft conversion stairs to go.

They'll make sure the stairs meet all the necessary guidelines in terms of head height, number and size of the steps, and any balustrades. They will also advise on the best location for them, and ensure they feel in-keeping with the rest of your home.

10. Inform your home insurance provider

Before work starts on your loft conversion, make sure you let your home insurance provider know, otherwise you could invalidate your policy.

Not all policies cover building work, like loft conversions, so you might need to take out specialist renovation insurance.

FAQs

Can I include a bathroom in a loft conversion?

(Image credit: Alistair Nicholls)

You can add a bathroom to your loft conversion, but it's positioning should be planned carefully.

‘The difficulty of incorporating attic bathroom ideas depends on the loft’s current layout, the available space, and the proximity of existing plumbing and drainage systems,’ says Daniel Kerley.

‘With plumbing, the cheapest and easiest way is to make sure your new bathroom sits over the top of an existing one. It makes running water and soil pipes much easier,’ adds Barrie Cutchie.

There may need to be further structural considerations too, as Barry explains: ‘Depending on the weight and load-bearing requirements of the bathroom fixtures, such as the bathtub or shower, you may need to reinforce the floor structure. This could involve adding extra support beams or joists to ensure the loft can accommodate the extra weight.'

How can I prevent my loft conversion from getting too hot?

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Hot air rises, and as a result, your loft conversion will naturally be the warmest room in the house. Therefore, it is vital to factor in cooling methods.

Sensor-operated windows – that open when the temperature reaches a certain level and close if rain is detected – are a great option. ‘Consider installing windows that can be opened to create cross-ventilation and using extractor fans or mechanical ventilation systems to enhance air circulation,’ advises Daniel.

You can pair windows with blinds or curtains to restrict the amount of light (and heat) that enters the space during the hottest times of the day.

Can I add storage to a loft conversion?

(Image credit: Hammonds Furniture)

If you store things in your loft, you might be concerned about what to do with that stuff if you choose to convert it to living space.

But fortunately a loft conversion doesn't take away all of your storage solutions. Under the eaves is the perfect place for a bit of additional storage, which can be factored in to your loft design.

Bespoke furniture that fits to the contours of a sloped ceiling will help to maximise storage space, and make the new room feel polished.

Once you'd added the physical space, follow these expert tips to make it look it's best.

14 inspiring loft conversion ideas to help you create the ultimate attic room

Sarah Handley — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:59:19 +0000

If you want to turn your loft from a dumping ground into a usable living area, then these loft conversion ideas will help you decide how to get the most out of a project like this.

If you are planning a loft conversion to ease space pressures on your home without actually extending, then you'll want to make sure the end result is worth both the cost and the disruption.

From inspiration to how you could use the new space to the design features that will add wow-factor, we've got you covered.

1. Create a master bedroom in the loft

Create a master bedroom that spans the whole width of your house by converting your loft (Image credit: Future PLC/ Nick Smith)

If you need to free up a bedroom then moving the master bedroom into the loft can free up a room on the floor below.

It could be worth reconfiguring the layout of the floor below while converting your loft. This is to make sure there is suitable space for your loft conversion stairs and to ensure the dimensions of the existing rooms meet your needs.

2. Or add an en-suite for the ultimate master suite

Add an en-suite bathroom to your loft conversion to ease congestion in the bathroom on the floor below (Image credit: Future)

If you're sick of waiting in line to use a single family bathroom every morning, then adding a bathroom into your loft conversion plans will be paramount.

Work with the contours of the roof shape when planning where best to place your sanitaryware. You'll also need to make sure you have adequate water pressure for a satisfying shower experience.

3. Add a guest bedroom

A loft conversion could be the ideal solution to add a guest bedroom to your home (Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

It may not always be practical to put a master bedroom in your attic, particularly if you have very young children. So instead, why not turn it into a fancy guest space that you can reclaim when the kids are older. Family or friends can then be kept away from your little early risers and enjoy a peaceful night's sleep – even if you don't!

4. Create two smaller rooms for kids

Use your loft to add extra bedrooms for kids, without having to move house (Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes)

There is no rule that your loft has to be converted into a master bedroom. In fact, it may be more practical to turn your attic into one or two smaller kids' bedrooms instead.

This can be an ideal solution for growing families who don't want to move, and is likely to be more affordable than moving to a larger property too.

5. Turn your loft into an additional living room

Add a second living room in your loft for an alternative relaxing space in busy households (Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)

If you want a bit of space away from the hubbub of everyday life, then an additional living room in the loft can achieve just that.

Just make sure your new loft conversion stairs give you enough space to bring in sofas and chairs.

6. Give older kids their own hangout space in the loft

Teens will love the independence that comes with having a floor to themselves (Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

If you have a teen that is crying out for their own space, a loft can provide the ideal teenage bedroom.

Depending on the size of loft you have, you could zone their room with a separate area for sleeping, studying and hanging out with friends.

7. Carve out a space for a loft home office

Use your loft conversion to create a dedicated space where you can work from home (Image credit: Future PLC/ Mel Yates)

If you've been trying to squeeze home working in around your home life, then creating a dedicated home office in your loft conversion is a good idea.

For a home office in the loft to be an effective solution, make sure there is enough natural light and adequate storage provisions, as well as numerous power outlets and a decent internet connection.

8. Solve sloped ceiling issues with bespoke furniture

Bespoke built-in furniture is a must for awkward spaces with sloped ceilings (Image credit: Hammonds Furniture)

One of the biggest loft conversion mistakes you can make is not planning enough storage. Effective storage options can help you solve the dilemma of where the things you used to store in the loft should go and keep unwanted clutter at bay. And when you're dealing with sloped ceilings and awkward angles, you'll need to go bespoke if you want to make the most of the space.

'Your loft is a unique space, so ordinary furniture won’t do the trick,' says Andy Briggs, resident interior designer for Spaceslide. 'Loft wardrobes should be designed to seamlessly fit into the contours of the room, filling every available space.

'In addition, sliding wardrobe doors can be cleverly installed to run alongside the sloped ceiling so that they utilise the floor-to-ceiling space.'

9. Utilise dead space under the eaves

Avoid dead spaces by optimising every available opportunity for storage (Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachael Smith)

The angled ceilings in a loft space usually mean that the areas along the perimeter of the room can feel like dead space. But this can actually be turned into a prime storage location.

Whether you work with an architect or a specialise loft conversion company to transform your space, they will be well-versed in bespoke under-eaves storage solutions.

10. Incorporate storage into your loft stairs

Don't forget to factor additional storage into your new loft conversion stairs (Image credit: Future PLC)

If you're worried about losing the storage space that you loft currently provides, then making sure you have plenty of alternative storage options will be key to a successful project.

You'll need to add a new set of stairs to access a loft room, so incorporate some storage in there to keep clutter at bay.

11. Add a dormer for additional head height

Create additional usable space thanks to the additional head height afforded by a dormer window (Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

Maximise the usable space in your loft by incorporating a dormer window in to your design to give you valuable additional head height towards the edge of the room.

Work with your designer on how you want to use the space so your dormer can be placed in the ideal spot that not only looks harmonious with your property from the outside, but also complements your desired layout internally.

12. Use rooflights to flood the space with natural light

Maximising natural light (and fresh air) will make your loft conversion feel fresh, bright and spacious (Image credit: Future PLC/ Maxwell Attenborough)

To ensure you are satisfied with your loft conversion, you need to have enough natural light (and fresh air) coming in.

Rooflights are a great way to make the most of daylight ingress, which not only makes your home look brighter and more spacious, it makes you feel better while you're in it too. After all, adequate natural light not only helps boost your mood and focus, but it can help maintain your circadian rhythm too.

13. Use glazing to embrace amazing views

Create wow-factor by making the most of stunning views (Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes)

Large windows in a loft conversion can be key to creating wow-factor, especially if you have incredible views to take advantage of.

You could even incorporate French doors and a Juliet balcony to enjoy those views even more. If you have the space, the doors to even open up on to a roof terrace for a real touch of luxury.

14. Decide whether to complement or contrast with your home's exterior

Don't forget to consider how your loft conversion will look from the outside too (Image credit: Future/Chris Snook)

You might be more concerned with how the loft conversion feels to live in and how it works with the flow of your home's interior. But its important it also looks good from the outside too.

Opting for something that complements your existing home is one way to go, or you can go for a complete contrast for a striking look.

When you're in the ideas phase, you'll also need to research the types of loft conversion you can opt for to see which is best for your home and budget.

How to convert your garage from a dumping ground into valuable living space, according to the pros

Sarah Handley — Wed, 26 Jun 2019 12:20:49 +0000

If your garage has become a dumping ground for stuff you rarely use, and your house isn't feeling big enough, then converting your garage into usable living space could be the ideal solution.

If you've got garage conversion ideas that you want to bring to life, you'll need to have a clear understanding of what a project like this entails to make sure it goes off without a hitch.

To help, I've used my personal experience of a garage conversion and asked industry experts for their insights to create this ultimate garage conversion guide for you to follow.

What type of garage conversion do you want?

Converting an integrated garage can be the most cost-effective garage conversion project (Image credit: Future PLC/Jonathan Gooch)

There are different types of garage conversion, and the right one for you will depend on the type of garage you have; either integrated, attached or detached and either single or double; and whether you want to retain any of the existing garage for storage.

Full garage conversion. This will involved converting the entirety of the garage into usable living space.
Partial garage conversion. As the name suggests, this route involves converting part of the garage only. In the case of a single garage, it's usually the back part that is converted, with a partition wall added, and the front part, with the garage door, is kept for storage. In the case of a double garage, a popular choice is to convert half, and keep the other half for parking or storage.
Detached garage conversion. Converting a garage that isn't physically connected to the rest of the home is not impossible, but it can be a more complex project due to heating, electrical and plumbing requirements. You may also need planning permission, which can add to the conversion timeline.

You should also think about how you will integrate the new space into the rest of your home. ‘A standard single garage is approximately 150 sq ft, which is too small to fit a family sitting room and be able to open the doors,’ says the team at the Garage Conversion Company. ‘However, that's a lot of extra living space if you convert it to become an open-plan part of your house.’

‘For those with a double garage the perfect solution may lie in what we call a 'part conversion' where typically the front or rear of the garage might be retained to house the lawnmower or your bicycle whilst the rest of the garage is converted into a useable room.’

Do you need an architect to convert my garage?

Using an architect can be a good idea, especially if you plan on converting a detached garage (Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)

You can use an architect to design your garage conversion, and this can be a great solution if you are wanting to convert a larger or detached garage. If you are looking for a more creative design, this is sensible route to take.

Thomas Oldham, co-founder of the UK Construction Blog, says: 'Speaking with a designer or architect early on is a smart move. They’ll help you figure out how to make the space functional and compliant with building regulations. This can include adjusting access, rethinking how the new room connects to the rest of the house, and making the most of any natural light. One thing people often overlook is the issue of floor levels. Garages often sit lower than the main house, and bridging that gap properly can avoid future problems with damp or uneven transitions.'

Alternatively, you could use a specialist garage conversion company that will have bags of experience in conversions of this nature, or a find a good builder to tackle the conversion for you.

Whoever you choose, make sure you vet them carefully and ask to speak to previous clients and take a look at their previous work.

If you are a skilled DIYer, you could save money by taking on a lot of the conversion work yourself. But you will need to liaise with your local Building Control department to ensure the work is up to regulation requirements.

Is your garage suitable for conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Many garages are suitable for conversion, unless they were shoddily built or asbestos-ridden, but there will be structural considerations to be made.

Firstly, the foundations will need to be assessed to ensure they can cope with the additional load. This is even more crucial if you plan on extending over the garage at the same time, or in the future. If the foundations aren't strong enough then underpinning will be necessary which can be expensive.

Thomas Oldham adds: ‘Before starting a garage conversion, homeowners need to understand what they’re working with structurally. Many attached garages in the UK were built for storage, not for living in, so you’ll need to check the existing foundations, whether there’s sufficient damp-proofing, insulation and ceiling height, and how easily it can be brought up to current building standards.’

If you are opting for a full conversion, you'll also need to block up the existing garage door. This can be a wall with a window, or can include an entrance door, which may be useful depending on how you plan to use the converted space. Matching materials and window styles with the rest of the property will help the conversion feel harmonious.

It's highly likely that the roof will need upgrading too, and this is an opportunity to add roof windows which will flood the new space below with natural light, which will make it feel bigger and brighter.

What's the best way to heat and ventilate a garage conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/Sussie Bell)

If you want to add another radiator to your central heating, you will need to check that your boiler can cope with the additional demand. If not, you may need to replace it.

Alternatively, you could choose to add electric underfloor heating to warm the new space, which can be really handy if you want the flexibility that comes from clear walls.

From a ventilation point of view, make sure you have windows and or doors that open at either end of the conversion to ensure adequate air flow. Rooflights that open can help with this too. If you plan on using the garage as a shower or kitchen, then you'll also need suitable extractor fans in place.

How do you insulate a garage conversion?

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Parmiter)

Insulating the roofs, walls and floor of your garage conversion will be a key part of the process. In fact failing to do this properly is one of the biggest garage conversion mistakes you can make. The easiest way to do this is with rigid board insulation, which is fitted to timber battens, with a damp proof course between the battens and the wall.

This will need to be added internally, which will ultimately impact the available square footage you have, so bear that in mind when planning how best to use the space.

Depending on the age and construction of your house, you may also be able to inject insulation into the wall cavity.

Ultimately, your architect, builder or garage conversion specialist will be able to advise on the best insulation methods for your specific project.

Make sure to check for any signs of damp that will need to be resolved before you add insulation over the top.

Adding electrics and plumbing to your garage conversion

(Image credit: Future PLC/Design Hunter/Npower)

Electrics. It is possible that your garage conversion can be connected to your mains unit, but you will need an electrician to assess whether your existing unit will be able to cope with the additional strain. If not, it may need to be upgraded, or you may need a new one adding.

If you are converting a detached garage, you may also need a new unit, but the cabling can usually be run underground from the main house, so you don't need to worry about trailing wires.

Plumbing. If you want to add a toilet or shower in your converted garage, then you'll need to consider how to bring water in and take it away. Checking the location of existing water and soil pipes can help you choose the most convenient and cost effective location.

Schedule of works for a garage conversion

Assess the existing structure for suitability
Produce design drawings
Check whether planning permission is required or not, and apply if consent is needed
Produce detailed design and building regulations drawings
Submit your Building Regulations application
Arrange conversion insurance to cover the new works and the existing structure
Notify Building Control that work is beginning
Strip garage back to retained structure
Make any necessary structural alterations
Damp-proof new floor, if necessary
Insulate walls, floor and roof
Pour new floor, if required
Install new window and doors
First fix joinery, wiring and plumbing
Plaster and dry-line
Fit new doors, skirting, architrave, fixed floor finishes and light fittings
Decorate

How much does a garage conversion cost?

It can be hard to pin down specific garage conversion costs, as it can depend on various factors including what structural work is needed and what you plan on using the space for.

If no structural changes are needed, and you don't plan on including a toilet or shower, it's possible to convert your garage for somewhere in the region of £7,000.

However, if you do want to include a toilet or shower room, multiple rooflights, or if significant structural changes are needed, then the cost can be significantly higher.

Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?

An additional bedroom in a converted garage could impact your council tax band so do your research before you commit (Image credit: Future/ David Giles)

In many cases, you won't need planning permission for a garage conversion, but this isn't a blanket rule.

While many integrated and attached garage conversions will be covered under Permitted Development rights, that won't be the case if you live in a designated zone like a Conservation Area or National Park or live in a listed building.

The rules are also different if you want to convert a detached garage as you will need to apply for a change of use.

It's best to check with your local authority to check what permission is needed before you start the project.

Even if your conversion doesn't require planning permission, there will be garage conversion building regulations to adhere to. If the garage shares a wall with a neighbouring property, you may also need to have a party wall agreement in place.

Not following these rules may mean that your neighbour can stop you from converting your garage, so make sure you follow the rules for a stress-free project.

Should I convert my garage?

If you have a double garage, you could convert it into a sizable additional bedroom (Image credit: Future)

In most cases, it's more cost effective to make better use of existing but underused space, like a garage, before considering building an extension. Plus, converting the garage also means you don't have to sacrifice any of your garden.

But in order to decide if a garage conversion is worth it, ask yourself the following questions:

What do you want to use the converted space for?
Does the location of the garage lend itself to this purpose?
Will it add more value than it costs?
Is the project cost cheaper than moving house?
Is the garage suitable for conversion?
Do you have a plan for how to store what's in your garage right now?
Will the conversion impact your council tax band? (It may if you add an extra bedroom, so check before you commit).

FAQs

Will a garage conversion add value?

A garage conversion could add 10-20% to the value of your home, if done well, according to Checktrade.

But before you get too excited about the extra space, it's important to consider whether losing your garage could actually devalue your home.

'For two-car families in an area where parking is zoned or at a premium, a garage will be more valuable than an extra room,’ says Rightmove’s John Woodhall. ‘But if you have plenty of space off road to park your car and the job is well done, converting your garage will pay dividends.'

It's worth also considering who will inherit the garage conversion after you move. Creating a futureproof space that is widely appealing is a sure fire way to maximise the value it adds to your home.

Is a garage conversion better than an extension?

Whether a garage conversion or extension will depend on a few factors including what you are looking to achieve, how quickly and at what cost.

Converting your garage will usually be cheaper than extending (although as mentioned above, any structural issues with the garage can increase costs significantly), and will generally be completed quicker too. This can be a huge advantage if space pressures on your home have you at your wits end.

Similarly, if you don't want to sacrifice any of your garden, then converting existing space, like your garage or loft, may be the best route forward.

However, if you live in a house rather than a bungalow and want to add an extra bedroom, it might be a deal-breaker that a garage conversion bedroom will be on the ground floor with other bedrooms on the floor above. In this case, converting your loft might be a better option.

If you need more space both upstairs and down, a two storey extension might be needed to get the results you want.

If you use your garage to park your car, then you will need to ensure you have suitable alternative parking before converting your garage to avoid devaluing your home.

If you want to maintain or improve your fitness from home, make sure you read our guide on whether you can convert your garage into a gym, and the rules you'll need to follow to do it.

Church conversions worthy of praise

Katie Garrett — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 07:13:39 +0000

Is there anything more impressive than a church conversion? We're always amazed to see the transformation of ancient churches and chapels into liveable, family-friendly homes. The design and architectural skill that goes into these grand designs is second to none.

After plenty of nosing, we're come up with a foolproof recipe for success. Combine traditional features such as Gothic-arched windows, stone walls and timber roofs with contemporary necessities. And always make the most of that grand space with a mezzanine and double height living space.

Step inside these beautiful sanctuaries, all for sale or to rent with Savills. You'll be in awe...

Church House, Fife

(Image credit: TBC)

The original character of this charming church has been retained during the careful restoration of the property. Decorative stone carved arches and pillars act as room dividers and are striking alongside the original timber panelling, stained glass windows, and vaulted ceilings. The tower has also been cleverly restored and provides incredible 360 degree views over the neighbouring farmland.

Church House is on the market for offers over £695,000

St John's Church, Hertfordshire

(Image credit: Mark.Percival@ITSB24.COM)

Is this the most picture-perfect church conversion you've ever seen? The entire property is surprisingly bright and airy thanks to its enormous stain glassed windows and clever lighting. A double-glazed glass extension, built with vaulted ceiling in keeping with the style of the church, provides further light. The renovation retains the original features while adding modern luxuries such as underfloor heating.

This five bedroom church conversion is available to rent for £7,950 per month

(Image credit: TBC)

The Old Chapel, Gloucestershire

(Image credit: TBC)

This statuesque gothic church conversion has been converted with flair and imagination. The original Gothic arched windows throughout are striking and look out to an idyllic country village setting.

This stunning conversion is on the market for £650,000

The Steeple, Angus

(Image credit: TBC)

Aside from the incredible tower with panoramic views, the oak beams and doors are the main feature of this interesting and beautifully designed church conversion. Teamed with glass panels to create the illusion of space and light, the oak beams and wooden spiral staircase are traditional yet modern.

The cheapest of the bunch, this property is on the market for £370,000

St Mary's Church, Surrey

(Image credit: TBC)

This one-bedroom conversion has maintained the church's vaulted ceiling, with its exposed timbers, but otherwise focused on modernisation and making best use of the tiny space. The living space is ope- plan, and a conservatory has been added to the side of the property. Heavenly.

This chocolate box church conversion is for sale for £645,000

Which of these church conversions would you most like to live in? Let us know in the comments box below...

7 reasons to love living in a warehouse conversion

Sarah Baldwin — Tue, 09 Jun 2015 10:36:12 +0000

Exposed brick walls, statement ceiling duct, expansive rooms... There are plenty of things to love about living in a warehouse conversion. Livingetc highlights the key reasons that you're the envy of all your pals...

1. More exposed brick than you can shake a stick at

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

Raw brick walls are one of the serious boons of warehouse interiors, whatever condition they are in. Warmth, texture, character... the pros are numerous. Whether you smarten them up with paint or leave them rough and ready, they bring serious interest to a space.

2. The rough and ready approach really works

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

From revealed joists through to exposed ceiling ducts, warehouse conversions wear their hearts on their sleeve. The good news is that the best schemes rejoice in their imperfections – nothing needs to look too polished. The same goes for light fittings: factory-style pendants with long flexes complete the warehouse look.

3. Super-size fittings are de rigeur

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

A warehouse conversion gives you room to breathe, along with room for giant, statement fittings like this stunning chandelier. In fact, you've got to go big, as anything too small will get lost. Apply this same rule to artwork and mirrors.

4. Yours is the party house

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

You are the hostess with the mostess as entertainment is a cinch in a warehouse conversion; your kitchen is plenty big enough for boozy dinner parties, and push furniture to one side and you've a dance floor for dozens. Old-school floorboards and concrete floors both lend themselves well to a serious hammering.

5. You have your dream layout

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

No awkward, hard-to-use box rooms for you! A warehouse is by nature a large single room, a blank space into which you can incorporate walls and partitions where needed. Embrace traditional warehouse style by keeping it very open (and then create zones with furniture), or use screens or walls to create well-proportioned rooms.

6. Originality by the bucket load

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

In terms of furniture, anything goes in a warehouse conversion, from salvo yard finds to slick modern pieces. Stick a massive door in a simple bedroom and you've got yourself an on-trend scheme...

7. Storage, storage, storage...

(Image credit: future PLC/Matthew Williams)

Collectoholics, this one's for you. A warehouse conversion gives ample space for walls of fitted storage. Unlike Victorian or Georgian period properties, you are likely to be working with straight walls, which means grid-like shelving like this is a breeze to fit. Time to start collecting vintage records!

See more ideas and homes from Livingetc.

Creative conversions: Can you guess which buildings these homes used to be?

Ginevra Benedetti — Fri, 29 May 2015 13:17:00 +0000

We love having a nosy around other people's homes - the quirkier and more unusual the better. But sometimes even we're surprised by the transformations we discover once we're through the keyhole of homes around the country (and world).

So, can you guess which buildings these stunning homes were in a previous life? We're giving you an interiors shot and a cunning clue before the big reveal - let us know how you get on...

1. The shape of the roof and large windows in this house might give away its former role in the local community - although it's now just got the one desk rather than rows and rows lined up ready for learning.

(Image credit: future PLC/Simon Maxwell)

...it was a schoolhouse. Yes, this charming building is a former primary school which was converted into a family home in the 1970s.

(Image credit: TBC)

2. This large open-plan apartment in sunny Melbourne was once an epic building producing a comfy bedroom essential.

(Image credit: future PLC/Tim James)

...it was a mattress factory.

(Image credit: future PLC/Tim James)

3. Rural was the name of the game for this country number back in the day, but nowadays there are more human inhabitants than animals.

(Image credit: future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

...it was an 18th
century barn building - now a five-bedroom family home in Marlow, Buckinghamshire.

(Image credit: future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

4. The windows might give this one away, but there's certainly no sign of its strict past inside.

(Image credit: future PLC/Brent Darby )

...it was a primary school - a Grade II listed former school dating from 1767 to be precise.

(Image credit: future PLC/Brent Darby )

5. The former workers of this beautiful building will be pleased the owners have a few gorgeous prints on the wall - a defining feature of its heritage.

(Image credit: future PLC/Jean-Marc Wullschleger)

...it's a former print works. This renovated printing factory in Marseilles, France, combines industrial chic with contemporary design classics.

(Image credit: future PLC/Jean-Marc Wullschleger)

6. There are three pretty major clues to this stunner's former role: Stained glass windows, high ceilings and the beautiful pulpit.

(Image credit: future PLC/Robert Sanderson)

...it's a converted church. This a grade II listed flint-and-stone church conversion in Hertfordshire now has a sitting room, dining room, kitchen, sunroom, study, utility room, cloakroom, four bedrooms (two en suite) and bathroom.

(Image credit: future PLC/Robert Sanderson)

7. Beautiful beams and sympathetic design touches mean this conversion has kept a nod to its gothic heritage throughout the property.

(Image credit: TBC)

...it's a church hall in west Yorkshire. This Grade II listed converted church hall now features a living/dining room, kitchen, mezzanine office, bedroom, bathroom and wet room.

(Image credit: future PLC/Mark Bolton )

Enjoyed this? Well, there's plenty more where that came from! Don't miss our favourite house tours from around the world.

Barn conversion ideas and designs for rustic buildings

Tamara Kelly — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:41:30 +0000

Do you dream of buying a barn conversion when you next move, or are you the lucky owner of a beautifully converted building already?

The architecture of a barn conversion can introduce interesting design elements to an interior. The property may have areas linked by glass, or mezzanine levels that have been created to make the most of soaring, vaulted ceilings and large living spaces.

Decorate your barn in a style that will flow seamlessly from one room to another. It's a good idea to create zones to break up a large living space, with spots for relaxing and a smart eating area. Also use lighting to define each space and create atmosphere. Combine striking chandeliers with sets of pendant or exposed-bulb lighting, and mix standard and table lamps to lend a cosy feel.

While barns may be located in the country, there's no rule that says you have to opt for country style when it comes to the interior design. Modern country decorating schemes will complement the exposed wood beams and rustic features of a barn conversion, however sleek furniture can also look great in large open-plan spaces with polished wood floors and high ceilings.

Make the most of beautiful views with a picture window. French windows or bi-fold doors that open on to a garden are another common feature of barn conversions, so consider your outdoor furniture and terrace as part of the overall room design.

Whether it's the architecture or peaceful countryside locations that you love, browse through our gallery of family homes and rustic retreats, which are all packed with character and original features.

Barn conversion ideas with both modern and traditional aesthetics

1. Go open-plan

(Image credit: Future PLC/Matthew Williams)

The exposed original rustic oak beams in this modern barn conversion provide a large open-plan space – perfect for family living.

2. Introduce natural timber windows for a traditional look

(Image credit: Future PLC/Bruce Hemming)

This large barn conversion features wooden windows that help create a classic look. The spacious driveway re-inforces the building's imposing appearance.

3. Open each room out onto a terrace

(Image credit: Future PLC/Robert Sanderson)

This 19th century terraced barn features large glass windows and a landscaped garden, adding an elegant, modern feel to the property.

4. Paint in black for a modern edge

(Image credit: Future PLC/Brent Darby)

The extra skylights in this 19th century barn conversion add much-needed light inside, while the large patio increases the living space outside, making it the perfect family home.

5. Leave the roof space open for an airy feel

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

The original beams in this converted barn is made even more impressive by opening up the height of the building to create a bright and airy living space.

6. Reference the building's origins

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme)

The detailing on the wooden doors and window shutters makes this converted dairy barn welcoming and cosy.

By keeping the shutters over the modern French windows, the building references its original use and you can shut out the light in a bedroom.

7. Go big

(Image credit: Future PLC/Brent Darby)

Take advantage of a larger barn's scale by creating a spacious home, and don't be intimidated.

This huge Victorian barn is the perfect country home. The exterior features traditional black clapperboard mixed with original stone.

8/14 Country bathroom barn conversion

8. Be creative with the positioning of your plumbing

(Image credit: Future PLC/Bruce Hemming)

It's likely you'll need to start from scratch with your plumbing and electrics. And this is something to embrace. It allows you to be creative when it comes to the position of a bath or en suite. Plus, you can have as many plug sockets as you like!

The exposed beams help add a rustic feel to this neutral bathroom, situated in the centre of a spacious bedroom. French windows with white shutters inject some classic country-style.

9. Use local materials for authenticity

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

When restoring an old barn, it's important to use materials that suit the aesthetic of the existing structure. Try to use local, reclaimed stone where possible on a stone building. Only will this blend seamlessly with what's there, it will also have a lower environmental impact.

This stone barn conversion features a striking semi-circular window – perfect for adding a modern touch to a country building.

Can't get enough of barn conversions? See the essential guide to barn conversions here.

10. Mix materials

(Image credit: TBC)

The grand entrance to this barn conversion creates quite the impression upon arrival. A stylish mixture of materials adds interest to the large building.

11. Celebrate the dormer window

(Image credit: TBC)

Most barn conversions will have a large pitched roof and be much longer than they are wide. Dormer windows will therefore be the best solution for first floor rooms, with a long corridor joining them on one side.

Situated in front of a perfectly manicured lawn, this barn conversion is sleek and stylish whilst still managing to retain lots of character.

12/14 Fountain centrepiece

12. Introduce grand features in your landscaping

(Image credit: TBC)

It can be difficult to strike a balance between a large building like a barn and the plot that surrounds it. It's best to be ambitious with your garden landscaping, reflecting the scale of your building in generously sized features such as fountains, flowerbeds and a sweeping driveway.

The clean-cut, modern windows in this home work beautifully alongside the traditional brick walls, and the fountain in the garden adds a touch of grandeur.

13. Embrace the wonky and uneven

(Image credit: TBC)

Many very old barns will have bowed walls, wavering roofs and beams that seemingly have a life of their own. But provided they are structurally sound, learn to love them. They are all part of the charm of the building.

This thatched converted country barn comes complete with a cow shed. Built originally around 1615, this house is packed full of history.