Loft Conversion Designs – A Beginner’s Guide to Loft Conversions

Thinking of a Loft Conversion? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

At first glance, getting a loft conversion might feel like a long and complicated journey. With planning rules, building regulations, and design decisions to navigate, it’s no surprise that many homeowners don’t know where to start.

But don’t worry — that’s exactly what we’re here for.

At Melrose Designs, we’ve helped countless clients in Wigan and the surrounding areas make the most of their unused attic space. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to converting your loft and help you figure out whether your home is suitable.

Can My Loft Be Converted?

The first thing to check is whether your loft can actually be converted. Most homes in the UK come with what’s called Permitted Development rights, which allow certain types of loft conversions without needing full planning permission. However, not all properties qualify, and there are rules about the volume of space you can add and how the conversion impacts the outside of your home.

If you’re unsure, the best thing to do is speak to your local council or consult a professional in architectural design — especially if you’re in or near a conservation area.

But before you reach out to anyone, here are a few things you can check yourself:

Is there enough headroom in your loft? You ideally need at least 2.2m from floor to ridge.
What type of roof does your house have? Traditional cut roofs are generally easier to convert than trussed roofs.
Do you have any obstacles like water tanks or chimneys in the loft space?

Do I Need Building Regulations Approval?

Yes — even if you don’t need planning permission, you will need Building Regulations approval. This ensures that the conversion meets safety, insulation, and structural standards, including:

Structural strength of the new floor
Fire safety (especially safe escape routes)
Sound insulation
Stairs and access
Electrical work and ventilation

At Melrose Designs, we can guide you through these requirements and work closely with structural engineers to ensure everything’s up to code.

Types of Loft Conversions

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to loft conversion design. The right option will depend on your budget, roof structure, and how much extra space you’re looking for. Here are the three most common types:

1. Roof Light Conversion (a.k.a. Velux Conversion)

This is the most cost-effective option and involves adding roof windows to bring light into the existing loft space. There’s no change to the roofline, which means minimal disruption and no need for major structural changes. However, it only works if your existing space has enough headroom.

2. Dormer Loft Conversion

Dormers are extremely popular because they add usable floor space and head height by extending out from the roof. A rear dormer conversion is often allowed under permitted development, while larger or side dormers may require planning permission.

This type of loft conversion is perfect for adding a spacious bedroom or home office — often becoming the largest room in the house.

3. Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

This option is ideal for semi-detached and detached homes with a hipped roof (sloping sides). It involves extending the side of the roof vertically to create a gable end, allowing for a full-width loft conversion.

It’s a more structural approach but adds substantial space and can even support an ensuite bathroom or multiple rooms.

Look at Your Neighbourhood

Wondering whether your loft conversion idea is realistic? Take a look at the street scene. If similar houses on your road have dormers or full conversions, it’s a good sign that you’ll be able to do something similar.

Better yet, have a friendly word with a neighbour who’s had work done — they might even show you around and share what they learned.

Roof Shape and Headroom

Some roofs are easier to convert than others. The most important factors are:

Roof height: Ideally more than 2.2m
Roof pitch: Steeper pitches offer more usable space
Internal structure: Whether you have a traditional cut roof or a modern trussed rafter roof

A good architectural design Wigan professional can measure and assess your space to determine what’s possible.

Planning the Floor Below

It’s easy to focus entirely on the loft, but don’t forget the floor below. You’ll need to fit a staircase into the layout, which can take up a surprising amount of space.

Think about where it will go and how it might affect the room below. With some clever design, it’s possible to create an elegant stairwell that looks like it’s always been part of the home.

Ready to Start Your Loft Conversion?

Whether you’re looking to add an extra bedroom, a home office, or just make use of unused space, a loft conversion is one of the smartest ways to increase the value and functionality of your home.

At Melrose Designs, we specialise in home extension planning, loft conversion drawings, and coordinating with structural engineers to bring your vision to life — smoothly and stress-free.

📍 Based in Wigan, we proudly serve homeowners across Greater Manchester and Lancashire.

Get in Touch Today

If you’re unsure where to start or want to chat about the possibilities, we’re happy to help.

📞 Contact us today to book a free consultation

🌐 www.melrosedesigns.co.uk

Let’s make your loft conversion dream a reality.

Loft Conversion Designs – A Beginner’s Guide to Loft Conversions