Tag: house extension

Creative loft conversion ideas that just make sense

Creative loft conversion ideas that just make sense

One home extension that’s become more popular in recent years is the loft conversion. Homeowners are seeking to make as much as they can out of their existing home space, and converting the loft and other areas of the home has become the new norm, whether you’re looking to add a bedroom or you’re hoping to create a home office for remote working.

A loft conversion can make a big difference to your home and to your comfort. You can go with ingenious storage solutions, or you can go with an innovative design concept, but whatever you choose to do, your loft conversion is going to be stunning as a result. With that in mind, let’s have a look at some creative loft conversion ideas that just make sense.

  1. A loft studio. If you’re a creative, then a loft studio is a great idea. You can transform the space into a multipurpose studio that allows you to adapt your ever-changing needs. Whether you need more light from the skylights to be able to paint or you are looking to create a personalised yoga retreat, you can create a studio space that will reflect who you are. You can divide the loft into distinct zones for different activities too, using area rugs, furniture placement and partitions to help.
  2. A loft bedroom suite. If you’re done with the standard main bedroom in the main floors of the house, then converting your loft into a bedroom suite is going to be a game changer. Elevating your loft into something luxurious that exudes elegance and comfort will make you feel more comfortable. You can add more skylights and maximise your natural light, and you can illuminate the space as a result. You can pick a platform bed and built-in storage to make sure that every corner of your loft conversion is lit up and comfortable. Furthermore, you can even design a corner of the loft as a private en-suite bathroom. This will allow you to have somewhere to go so that you don’t have to walk downstairs every time you need to use the bathroom.
  3. A new entertainment area. Whether it’s a teenage hangout or somewhere for you to keep your gaming, creating a loft space that’s dedicated to relaxation and entertainment is a great idea. You may feel like it takes you away from the rest of the house, and it will, but for a good reason. You could install a built-in multimedia centre with a large TV surround sound system and ample storage, or you could opt for versatile seating options like modular sofas or even large floor cushions. If it’s for your teenagers, you could give them somewhere to play in peace without disturbing the rest of the house, and you could even choose to be soundproof so that they don’t disturb if they’re talking to other people online.
  4. A new office. You can create your new office with a view by adding more roofing, windows and skylights. You can have sunlight bathing through the room. Transforming your loft into a functional as well as inspiring a Home Office that maximises your productivity and comfort is a great idea. You could have as much natural light come in as you’d like, and you can keep yourself away from the rest of the house. So, if you’re sharing an office space, you can have somebody working downstairs while you work upstairs. You could include storage, just make sure that you have your flooring converted so that you can have an office chair without snagging any carpet.
  5. Your own loft library. Are you an avid reader? Having a space where you can have your books on large shelves and a comfortable chair to recline into is really going to be a game changer for you. Book lovers would love a reading nook, but what about an entire library that’s dedicated just to your favourite things? You could line the walls with floor to ceiling bookshelves to showcase your collection, and you can install a very plush, very thick armchair or window seat with soft cushions and throw blankets. Once you have good reading lighting, you will be comfortable.
  6. A playroom for the kids. Whether you have kids now or you’re planning to have kids later, transforming the playroom for the children is a great idea. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of their space and imagination, and it allows you to put the toys somewhere that’s out of the way and not scatter all around the house. You could consider designing a loft that includes a designated sleeping area, as well as a play zone, a study desk and more.
  7. A wellness space. We talked about a yoga studio, but you could create a loft that has your own gym and a Wellness space. If there’s enough ceiling coverage, choosing a durable and shock resistant flooring to support different workout activities is a good idea. Rubber flooring with interlocking foam mats and even specialist equipment is a good plan. Choosing fitness equipment that is versatile and suits your workout routine will mean that you are comfortable no matter what you do.
  8. A hang-out area for your friends. What if you installed your own bar in the loft? A chic loft bar can turn your loft into a social hub for gatherings with friends and family. You can create an amazing, inviting atmosphere and have a stylish bar counter using materials like granite, marble or even reclaimed wood. You can even install bar stools that complement the bar’s design while providing comfortable seating. With good lighting and an entertainment system, you can hang out with your friends in your own space.

The sky is the limit when it comes to loft conversion ideas, so really have a good think about what it is that you want the most from your space. The best thing that you can do is invest in something amazing.

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Top architects in Richmond for house extensions & renovations

Top architects in Richmond for house extensions & renovations

Wanting to create a great impression in Richmond using an elegant extension of your house, or looking for a new and trend-setting home improvement idea? Richmond is the right market for a home renovation that can capture the historic part of the house while incorporating the comfort of a contemporary living. However, to realise that dream, one must have the right architect on the side. If you’re enlarging your kitchen area, or redesigning the entire house, you’ll need the services of the best architects in Richmond. Let’s investigate the reasons why hiring a professional architect is a game-changer, what their role is in your project, what architectural styles you should consider and some recommendations for working with firms like Extension Architecture.

Importance of hiring a professional Richmond architect

When it comes to hiring an architect for your house extension and renovations, it’s not just about aesthetics and appearance, it’s about efficiency, practicality and regulations. Richmond contains many conservation areas and listed buildings and, as such, planning policies in this region can be quite stringent, and thus your project should have an architect who understands these requirements.

With planning permission being as complex as it is in the area, a professional Richmond architect will be able to guide you and ensure that the design you undertake is what you want and also meets the necessary planning permission regulations. They’ll also propose new concepts, innovative and effective designs and possess the experience of making the best use of limited space, awkward shapes and natural light.

Commissioning the services of an architect is cost-effective in the long run. They can save you from making mistakes that are financially costly and create designs best suited to your budget. Whether you’re having a kitchen diner or a loft conversion installed, an architect will make sure the designs are thought through properly so that your house is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

The role of an architect in house extensions and renovations

An architect’s role in creating extensions and renovations is far from just that of a planner. They’re the designers of your change and work hand in hand with building contractors to ensure that the work is properly implemented. Their task begins with ascertaining your requirements, your lifestyle and the goal that you have for your extension or remodel.

Architects are visual experts who design workable solutions in form and content that are both beautiful and efficient to employ. They will survey your space, consider how the rooms can be designed to admit the most light, integrate into the existing types of layout and usage, and design an efficient and aesthetic vision that fits within your options. For example, they can tell which is more applicable – a side extension or a rear extension, or how they can design the area to incorporate aspects such as energy-efficient windows.

Furthermore, an architect bears responsibility for the technical aspect, where your home is structurally sound at all times. They’re involved in consultant appointment, coordinate with the structural engineers/contractors and acquire the necessary approval from local authorities and building regulation.

For instance, at Extension Architecture, the personnel reveal that they are involved in the design and planning of the project as well as in the actual building work. Their focus, innovation and expertise guarantees that the process runs smoothly, and the final product is as per the client’s brief and expectation.

Architectural styles for house extensions and renovations

Modern day house extensions and renovation in Richmond are formed by various types of architectural designs, and while most of the homeowners emphasise a lot on modern styles, the region has a rich traditional feel.

Modern minimalism: The style that has received lots of attention from homeowners who want to expand their homes is the minimalist style of home decoration and architecture, with features such as simplicity, and large clear glass windows for enhanced light penetration. Contemporary glass and steel, the idea of building a new house, for example, behind a period residence within the frame of the old architecture is stunning but doesn’t violate the spirit of the house.

Victorian and Edwardian: This area has many Victorian and Edwardian houses, and many homeowners opt to extend, retaining their original features. They can be reinstated where a homeowner wishes to retain the historical appearances such as sash windows, intricate brick works, architraves, and cornicing but offer convenience of the 21st century.

Extension Architecture has a remarkable feature because it weaves its designs to fit all the kinds of architectural styles that are common in Richmond homes and still come out with a distinctive feel. They know how to approach the modern style while using architectural imagery that will reflect the ideas a client has, as well as embrace the traditions of the area.

Tips for working with an architect

Here are a few tips to ensure the process is smooth and enjoyable:

Communicate clearly: Begin with describing your vision and thinking it out in detail. The more detailed you can be within each of these categories, the more easily your architect will be able to design he or she is going to be designing for you. For example, Extension Architecture provides an evolutionary approach whereby the client is involved fully in the creation of the design.

Be open to suggestions: It’s always good to have a vision but, at the same time, keep in mind that your architect is knowledgeable as well as experienced. Listen to them and be willing to accept their ideas for enhancing your opinion or present them with some other option. Just like artistic home additions, extension architecture is well-acquainted with providing solutions to any design question, or to the point, how many homeowners make the most of space, light and utility in a manner they hadn’t thought of.

Plan for the unexpected: It is common to find yourself encountering problems with structure, foundation or even planning problems when undertaking extensions and renovations. Ensure that you have a kind of spare time or extra amount of money to give when such circumstances arise. The team at Extension Architecture understands the local area well and thus can help avoid obstacles that may affect the success of your project and cause delays.

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5 practical reasons to expand your home

5 practical reasons to expand your home

Are you wondering what benefits you would get from adding to your home? Home extensions are a great way to transform the style and functionality of your building. These projects can increase your home floor space and enhance comfort. Overall, when you plan to expand your home, it allows you to design a better space that caters to your and your family’s needs. If you need more convincing, here are some practical reasons to consider this project.

Unlock specialised space

Expanding your home for such a purpose can be rewarding if you seek a designated space like an entertainment room, home office, gym, or sunroom. Rather than cluttering your bedroom, you may consider extensions to meet your special needs. Adding a music room may require extra insulation and soundproofing features. For homeowners working from home, having a dedicated workspace is ideal. So, why not add an office? Building a specialised playroom for your kids is another extension project that can benefit your little ones greatly.

Get more storage

Like many homeowners, you probably have many items you often use but lack room for storage. Expanding your home will increase your storage capacity for various supplies such as toys, craft materials and photography equipment. Organising your home is easier when you have enough space to accommodate your belongings.

Accommodate new household members

It’s a good idea to design a home that suits your current and future lifestyle. Sometimes life presents you with new circumstances to which you must adapt. For example, you may want more kids. Extending your spaces allows you to add new household members without any hassle. Whether you intend to create a new room or extend an existing one, adding more liveable spaces to your home is a good investment to offer family members their much-needed comfort.

Increase your property value

Virtually all property owners want to profit significantly from their investment when selling. Thankfully, installing a new extension is an effective upgrade to boost your home’s value. However, the amount depends on the remodelling job that you undertake. If you’re unsure what additions will greatly impact your property value, consult home extension experts for more information. They can examine your unique residential situation and advise you on the most profitable home improvement projects.

Personalisation

Extensions don’t only offer you a rare chance to build new spaces, they also enable you to personalise your home. Your ageing home may need a complete facelift to accommodate your lifestyle. Irrespective of your goals and budget, you can customise your home with additions ranging from a new kitchen to extra bedroom construction. Any experienced home addition contractor can give you valuable ideas to add more personality to your home.

Maximise energy efficiency

Your current home design may be contributing to your rising energy bills. The good news is remodelling is a smart tip to maximise energy efficiency and reduce your living costs. Poor insulation in your walls, ceiling and flooring can create efficiency problems, likewise poor quality windows and doors. Once you know the areas that affect your energy bills, a professional builder can implement the right upgrades in your extension or even update your existing units to conserve energy.

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How to plan a home extension

How to plan a home extensioncredit

Building an extension to your home is the best way to increase your property value. Not only do you get the added convenience of more living space or an extra bedroom or bathroom, you also gain a boost in equity. You could then release this to fund further home improvements.

Just about any home can have an extension of some kind. If you have the space to add a garage with an added bedroom on top you can send the value of your property soaring.

Get in contact with local builders

The best way to research your options is to get some advice and estimates from local builders and handymen. Experienced builders can advise you on the structural elements of the extension, but you’ll also need to finish the interior of the new space.

With MyBuilder, it’s easy to contact a handyman in the area that can work out the cost of outfitting the interior of your extension. This is an important part of the build for which many people forget to plan. When you’re searching online for a ‘handyman near me’, remember that there are online resources to help you find one, and it includes verified customer reviews, so you can pick a handyman upon whom you know you can rely.

Build a budget

Now you have a better idea of what you can achieve with your extension, and an estimate of the costs of building and finishing, you can start to put together a budget. On paper this is easy, but finding the money to cover the cost is the hard part.

If you already have equity in your home, you should consider releasing some to help finance this build. A home extension is a perfect use for equity as you’re investing the money back into your property. You also need to budget for planning costs. Paperwork like building plans and planning applications will all need to be completed and you should get the help of a professional.

Get your home ready

The final piece of preparation work is getting your home and the surrounding grounds ready for the building work. You may need to clear space in the garden or at the side of the home so there’s access for contractors, supplies and equipment.

The area that’s being extended needs to be cleared of your possessions and prepared for the work to begin. The room may be exposed to the outdoors when the building work is being completed, so take some steps to protect the indoor space. Use plastic sheeting to cover parts of the room that will be exposed, this will prevent plasterwork on the walls or the floor from being damaged by rain water.

With plenty of planning and preparation, and the help of some experienced professionals, extending a room in your home can be an easy project. This is one of the highest-value home improvements you can make to your house and the right design with a high-quality finish can pay for itself in property value.

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