Room to Improve?
Top tips for making more space in your home
If you’re feeling inspired to make the most of your property, the National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, which is hosting a dedicated Making More Space Weekend (12th & 13th July), has the following tips and ideas for making more space in your home:
1) Build an extension
Most properties that have not already been modified have Permitted Development Rights attached. Depending on the type of property, an extension of 10-20% of the external dimensions of the property (including roof space and out-buildings within 5 metres of the property) can be built without formal planning approval. (Remember that building control approval will always be required.)
2) Build a conservatory
Conservatories (up to a certain size) outside the heated envelope of the house do not need building control approval and may be allowed under Permitted Development Rights, negating the need for formal planning permission.
3) Transform wasted space
Older properties in particular can have large areas of space which can be put to good use. Clever designs allow en suite shower and wet rooms to be fitted into a remarkably small floor area, so even the space under the stairs can be utilised for a w.c. or a study/office.
4) Outdoor Living
Make the most of your outdoor space as well, by adding decking or a patio to create an outdoor seating area or even a garden room. Folding doors are a great way of bringing internal and external space together. (Remember that if added in as part of a renovation project, you need to support the wall above.)
5) Convert your basement
If your back garden is too small for an extension, consider a basement conversion; it’s a great way to add space and value. Cost-effective basement conversions have been made possible thanks to improvements in damp proofing and water ingress management techniques. Converting an existing cellar is the easiest, and cheapest option at around £15,000.
6) Convert your loft
If your roof pitch is above 35 degrees, you may be able to convert your loft into habitable living space. Loft conversions provide the best value for money and return on investment. Bedrooms with en-suites work best, but you can also use it as a home office or study. Expect to pay in excess of £15,000 for a standard loft conversion.
7) Convert your garage
Some integral garages seldom play home to a car, and are full of all kinds of clutter. If you do have alternative parking, then a garage can be converted, usually without planning permission, into any number of things, e.g. a home gym, bedroom, or an office.
8) Add a balcony or roof terrace
Converting your loft or building a two-storey also gives you an opportunity to add a balcony or roof terrace; however, you will need to make sure that they are specifically approved in your planning, and by building control, as they have an external impact on the property. To incorporate an inconspicuous balcony, build in a full-height folding roof light such as those made by Velux as part of its Cabrio range (pictured).
9) Go open plan
Modern living styles have moved inexorably towards bigger space, communal areas and family living. Always take professional advice before knocking down internal walls to ensure that supported structures are not compromised.
10) Invest in clever storage solutions
By having a good spring clean and general de-clutter, you can probably get back some additional space, such as a spare bedroom, a loft or a garage. When building a new property, you should design in fitted wardrobes, by incorporating stud walls in the bedrooms. Existing homeowners can make the most of every nook and cranny with bespoke or integrated storage solutions that neatly hide away belongings, and maximise free living space.
