Many homes have empty rooms that are seldom, if ever, used. When they are used, quite often it is simply for storage. They are called attics.
Yes, the attic is space just asking for a makeover so it can be used fully, the way all the other rooms are.
An attic can be remodeled as a new room – possibly another bedroom or study – or, as a number of people do, it can be converted into a loft to give a lower room a greater feeling of space and utility, even as it functions as an upper area of its own.
Because of the way most roofs slope, you may think you lose a great deal of space (that allows headroom) on two sides of the attic. This is often compensated for with a dormer – a structural feature that allows for more usable space because it extends out from the slope of the roof. If you are considering an attic conversion, this may be part of your renovation.
Dormers are often used as windows and skylights and can be part of a home’s original construction or are an addition put in place when you remodel.
There are other important elements you’ll need to think about too. At the top of the list are safety and insulation. You will need to plan for safety exits and you will need to ensure the attic is adequately insulated to stay warm and keep energy costs down.
You will also need to decide how the attic or loft will be heated, ensure the electrical elements are in place and also consider lighting.
Natural lighting is always a great idea – which brings us back to the possibilities that dormers allow for. You may consider a skylight or putting dormer windows in place. While allowing for the great appeal of natural light, windows also allow for airflow and fresh air.
A renovation that brings the attic into the day-to-day life of a house, either as a new room or a loft, can be a wonderful enhancement to your home. Quite apart from the joy of having a beautiful new room, it adds to value.
And its possibilities are only limited to your imagination! It could be a bedroom, an element of your living room, a media room for television and computers, a study or home office … it’s endless.
