Maximizing space inside, is on one of most homeowner’s top priorities. Whether it’s living space, an extra bedroom, or a home office you need, there are plenty of ways to turn unused space into beautifully integrated and functional rooms.
In the last 12 months our homes have had to serve as a stay-at-home office, school room, home gym and restaurant, in addition to the demands of everyday living. And even as our county opens again to ‘Covid normal’ we’ve come to value our own space more than ever before, and renovation fever is in the air.
Loft conversion ideas are everywhere. Home extension builders are helping homeowners achieve their renovation dreams and transform their living spaces into highly efficient and comfortable zones for everyday use.
So, let’s take a closer look at some of the best ways to create more space without breaking the bank:
1. Loft Conversion
If you have an empty attic space, you’re in luck! Loft conversions are one of the most popular methods of creating extra space without altering the footprint of your home.
You can convert your loft area into a bedroom suite, playroom, gym area, second living zone, spare bedroom, or extra bathroom…The possibilities are infinite! And the best news is that loft conversions are generally one of the most cost-effective ways to gain more room.
Loft conversions come with a few challenges too: space for a staircase, soundproofing and possibly adding a dormer to create enough headroom are few of the common hurdles to be overcome.
2. Add a Dormer
Adding a dormer to an existing loft conversion is a great way to increase the practicality of the space. The extra headroom, straight walls and flat ceiling means that the area can be turned into a fully functional room that’s suited to nearly any need.
3. Garage Conversion
Do you have a garage that could be re-purposed to create extra living space? Garage conversions are another popular renovation project – it’s generally not hard to turn this area into a beautiful and functional living zone, particularly if it’s under the main roof of the house.
4. Open up
Open plan living has become more popular in Britain over the last decade, and for many homeowners, removing internal walls to create a free flow living area has increased the practicality and functionality of the property dramatically.
Talk to your renovation team about which walls in your home are load-bearing, and which ones could be removed to create a light, bright and airy living zone.
If you’re thinking of building an addition to your home, here are a few styles to consider:
5. Side Return Extension
Do you have unused space at the side of your property? A side return extension is a great way to increase the space inside the semi-detached end of terrace houses – even a few feet can make a huge difference.
Be aware that side return extensions can involve party wall issues, however, these can often be resolved peacefully, especially if you’re on good terms with your neighbours.
6. Rear Extension
If you can spare some of your garden, a rear extension might be your best option for adding an extra family area or larger kitchen to your property. Your extension could be a single storey or a double storey one, depending on your needs and the size of your budget.
Rear extensions offer the opportunity to add a more contemporary living zone at the back of an older property, without compromising the street appeal of the home.
7. Wrap Around Extension
Adding onto the rear and side of the home, commonly known as a wrap-around extension, is a great option for homeowners who need the space but don’t want to sacrifice too much of their garden.
This style of addition has many possibilities – kitchen, laundry, bathroom, living zone or casual entertaining area… whatever suits your needs and your lifestyle.
8. Close in the Patio
Enclosing an existing patio is a great way to create an all-year-round entertaining area or living space. Patios can be closed in with minimal disruption to the rest of the house, and they’re typically a cost-effective way to make the most of what’s already there.
9. Build a Garden Getaway
If your garden is large and you can spare the space, building a separate small dwelling that can be used as a studio, craft or hobby area or a home office is another great choice.
Many people choose to use this opportunity to provide extra income too: a separate room that can be used as an Airbnb is a great way to bring in a few extra pounds for your household (and help to cover the renovation costs too)!
Will Your Renovations Add Value?
Before you jump in with all guns blazing, it’s important to ensure that any home renovation project you undertake will add genuine value to your property. Do your sums. Research thoroughly. Talk to your home renovation specialist and ask for their advice.
If you’re renovating with a view to selling, here are a few sure-fire ways to take your home to the next level in the eyes of your potential buyer:
- A kitchen refresh is a guaranteed drawcard. And you don’t need to stretch the budget too far to bring it up to scratch.
Replacing benchtops, re-tiling the floor and a good dose of paint to walls and cabinetry will go a long way towards refreshing the whole room. New handles and draw-pulls will add the finishing touch and …. Bingo! Your kitchen looks amazing!
- The bathroom is another important area to focus on, and one that your prospective buyer will quickly notice if it’s not up to scratch.
To avoid extra costs, don’t alter the existing plumbing plan. New tapware, a fresh coat of paint and some new tiling will transform the look and feel of your tired old bathroom.
Adding an ensuite is a great way to boost the value of your property – homes with an extra bathroom are on buyer’s bucket lists.
- Light, bright, and airy: think about maximizing the amount of natural light inside your home by adding in a window or replacing a solid door with a glass one. A skylight or roof window is a great option for internal rooms.
