Loft Conversion, L-shaped Dormer, Hackney, East London, E5

Result

London Victorian terraces are ideally suited to loft conversions. As well as having a sizeable loft which can be turned into extra rooms, a terrace attic conversion often falls under ‘permitted development’ rights. This means you can extend the existing roof space up to 40 cubic metres without having to apply for planning permission. Depending on the terrace’s position, you may be able to opt for a Dormer loft extension – a roomy box-shaped structure built into the roof. This has the advantage of creating ample headroom and letting in plenty of natural light. 

 With this mid-terrace conversion, we were able to build a spacious, split-level L-shaped Dormer, comprising two box-like structures joined together.

Although it wasn’t necessary to gain planning permission, we advised our clients to get a ‘lawful development certificate’ LDC) from the local planning authority.

The certificate confirms that the alterations carried out satisfy legal requirements. This is valuable as it proves to potential buyers (and anyone else who wants to know) that your loft conversion was legally constructed.

We applied on our client’s behalf early in the design process, with the certificate granted a few weeks later.

To protect our client’s and their neighbours’ interests, neighbours either side had Party Wall Award documents drawn up by a surveyor.

A Party Wall Award (also known as a Party Wall Agreement) sets out details of the proposed work and steps that will be taken to safeguard the party wall – the wall shared between the properties. This gives peace of mind to all parties and, as everyone understands their rights and responsibilities before work begins, helps prevent disputes arising.

Victorian Loft Conversion Ideas 

 After discussing what our clients wanted, we set about planning their perfect loft rooms.

Keen for their loft lounge to maximise natural light, we installed three Velux windows and stylish French doors. The feature Juliet balcony gives splendid views and allows the double doors to be opened safely to let air in.

The new master bathroom replicates a swish 5-star hotel en suite. Lavish ‘His and Hers’ showers provide an indulgent showering experience. Large marble tiles – with distinctive grey patterning – enhances the decadent interior.

The addition of an oval bath – positioned under the impressive full-width window – is ideal for long, luxurious soaks.

The final touch was to give the little ones a space of their own. We converted the front gable into a cosy den. A low door accesses the room for extra ‘secret squirrel’ appeal!

On-Trend Black Finishes

 The conversion is the perfect mix of old and new. On-trend black aluminium windows and grey exterior tiles give the period conversion a crisp, contemporary edge.

Smaller elements, like the matt black radiators, taps and shower heads, create a sense of luxury throughout.

 To stamp our clients’ style on the new space, we decorated using limewash paint. The paint’s textured, aged appearance adds interest to block coloured walls. Plus, the bold paint colours – in this case terracotta and grey – really make the furniture and floor ‘ping’.

Our loft conversions are more affordable than you think – check out latest costs here.

 What rooms would you create? A stylish loft office? A boutique bedroom? Check out our loft conversion ideas here.