Loft Conversion Types – Which One Fits Your Home?

Thinking about turning that dusty attic into extra living space? You’re not alone. Homeowners across the UK love loft conversions because they add room without a big garden extension. The trick is picking the right type. Different roof shapes, budgets, and planning rules mean one size doesn’t fit all.

Dormer Loft – Extra Headroom Made Simple

A dormer adds a vertical window that sticks out from the sloping roof. It gives you a lot of headroom, so the space feels like a proper room instead of a low‑tech attic. The construction is pretty straightforward, which keeps costs moderate. You’ll need planning permission if the dormer changes the roof silhouette dramatically, but many small dormers qualify as permitted development.

Best for: Bedrooms, home offices, or a small bathroom where you need standing height. Expect a cost range of £15,000‑£30,000 depending on size and finishes.

Mansard Loft – Maximise Floor Area

A mansard conversion reshapes the roof into a near‑vertical back wall, then adds a new flat roof on top. This creates the biggest floor area of all loft types, often up to 60% more than a simple hatch conversion. Because the roof line changes, you’ll definitely need planning permission and a structural engineer’s sign‑off.

Best for: Large families who want an extra bedroom, a studio, or a full‑size bathroom. Price can climb to £35,000‑£60,000, but you get a whole new floor that can boost your property’s value.

Hatch (Simple) Loft – Quick and Budget‑Friendly

The simplest option is a single hatch with a staircase. You just open the roof, add insulation, and fit a floor. No major structural changes, so it’s usually covered by permitted development. You’ll still have limited headroom, so the space works well for storage, a small walk‑in closet, or a low‑tech gaming nook.

Best for: Adding storage or a modest hobby space without breaking the bank. Costs hover around £8,000‑£12,000.

Hip‑to‑Hip Loft – Open‑Plan Appeal

A hip‑to‑hip conversion keeps the original roof shape but adds a wider opening across the whole width. This gives a spacious feel while retaining the roof’s aesthetic. It’s a bit more involved than a simple hatch, so you’ll likely need a building control approval.

Best for: Open‑plan living areas, such as a home cinema or a combined bedroom‑office. Expect costs of £20,000‑£35,000.

When choosing your loft conversion type, ask yourself three quick questions: Do you need standing height? How much floor space do you want? Can you handle planning permission and higher costs? Answering these will steer you toward the right style.

Once you’ve picked a type, talk to a qualified loft conversion specialist. They’ll check the roof’s condition, load‑bearing walls, and insulation needs. A solid plan avoids surprise expenses later and keeps the project on schedule.

Bottom line: Whether it’s a modest hatch or a full‑blown mansard, the right loft conversion can add value, extra room, and a fresh feel to your home. Pick the style that matches your space, budget, and future plans, and you’ll love the new area for years to come.