Loft Conversion

Loft Conversion

10 Must-Have Features for Your Loft Conversion

21st October 20230

Loft conversions have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Transforming an underutilized attic space into a functional and stylish room can not only add value to your home but also provide much-needed extra space for living, working, or relaxing. To ensure your loft conversion is a success, there are ten essential features you should consider incorporating. From insulation and lighting to storage solutions, we’ll guide you through the key elements needed to create a cozy and functional loft space.

Effective Insulation

One of the most crucial features for your loft conversion is proper insulation. An adequately insulated loft will maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, ensuring you stay warm in winter and cool in summer. You can choose between different insulation materials like fiberglass, foam board, or spray foam insulation, depending on your budget and needs.

Ample Natural Lighting

Natural light can make a small loft feel more spacious and inviting. Consider installing skylights or dormer windows to flood the space with sunlight. Strategically placed windows will not only brighten the room but also offer fantastic views of the outside, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

In addition to natural light, energy-efficient lighting is a must-have. LED fixtures are not only environmentally friendly but can also save you money on your energy bills. Create layers of lighting with task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting to cater to various needs and moods.

Adequate Headroom

Ensure your loft conversion provides sufficient headroom. The ideal headroom height may vary depending on your local building regulations, but a minimum of 7 feet is generally recommended to avoid feeling cramped. Consider roof-raising if your attic lacks the required headroom.

Safe and Stylish Staircase

A safe and stylish staircase is essential to access your loft conversion. You can choose from various designs, such as spiral, straight, or floating staircases. Make sure the design complements your home’s aesthetics while adhering to safety regulations.

Functional Storage Solutions

Loft conversions often come with challenging layouts due to sloping ceilings and limited space. Maximize storage by incorporating built-in shelving, under-eaves storage, or bespoke fitted wardrobes. Well-planned storage solutions are crucial for keeping your new space organized and clutter-free.

High-Quality Flooring

Selecting the right flooring material for your loft conversion is essential. Hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate flooring adds elegance and durability to the space. Ensure your choice aligns with the loft’s purpose, be it a bedroom, home office, or living room.

Adequate Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial to maintaining air quality and preventing condensation issues in your loft conversion. Consider installing roof vents or a mechanical ventilation system to ensure a healthy and comfortable living environment.

Soundproofing

Loft conversions may require extra attention to soundproofing to ensure peace and quiet. Quality insulation materials and double-glazed windows can help reduce noise from outside. Additionally, consider acoustic panels on the walls and ceiling to dampen sound within the room.

Well-Designed Layout

Finally, a well-thought-out layout is vital to make the most of your loft conversion. Consider the room’s purpose and how best to arrange furniture and fixtures to optimize space. A professional interior designer can help you create a functional and aesthetically pleasing layout that suits your needs.

Conclusion

A successful loft conversion combines functionality and style to create a comfortable and attractive living space. The ten must-have features outlined in this blog, from insulation and lighting to storage solutions and a well-designed layout, are the key to ensuring your loft conversion not only adds value to your home but also enhances your quality of life. By carefully considering these features, you can transform your underutilized attic space into a cozy and functional area that meets your needs and personal style.

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Loft Conversion

The Latest Trends in Loft Conversions: What’s Hot in 2023

20th October 20230

Loft conversions have become increasingly popular in recent years. As homeowners look to maximize their living space without the hassle of moving. With 2023 upon us, it’s time to explore the latest trends in loft conversions that are shaping the way we transform these underutilized spaces into stunning, functional areas of our homes. From design aesthetics to cutting-edge technology, this blog will keep you up-to-date with what’s hot in loft conversions this year.

Natural Light and Open Spaces

In 2023, one of the dominant trends in loft conversions is the incorporation of ample natural light and the creation of open, airy spaces. Homeowners are increasingly opting for larger windows, skylights, and even glass walls to flood their lofts with sunlight. This not only creates a warm and inviting atmosphere but also makes the loft feel more spacious. The use of light, neutral color schemes, and minimalist design elements further enhances this trend, giving the space a clean and contemporary look.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Features

As environmental consciousness continues to grow, loft conversions in 2023 are seeing an increased emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly design. Homeowners are incorporating energy-efficient insulation, roofing, and windows to reduce energy consumption. Additionally, the use of sustainable building materials and green construction practices has become a top priority for those looking to minimize their ecological footprint. Green roofs, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems are just a few examples of sustainable features making their way into loft conversions.

Smart Home Integration

The integration of smart technology into homes is a trend that has been steadily growing in popularity, and loft conversions are no exception. In 2023, homeowners are embracing smart home automation systems that control lighting, heating, and security from their smartphones or voice-activated devices. These systems not only enhance convenience but also contribute to energy efficiency and home security. Smart home integration adds a modern and futuristic touch to loft conversions, making them more functional and enjoyable.

Multi-Purpose and Flexible Spaces

The loft conversion trend for 2023 emphasizes creating versatile and multi-purpose spaces. With remote work becoming more prevalent, homeowners are looking for adaptable loft designs that can serve as a home office, guest room, gym, or entertainment space. Furniture that can be easily reconfigured or hidden, such as wall beds and foldable desks, is becoming increasingly popular. This flexibility ensures that your loft space can cater to various needs without feeling cramped or cluttered.

Industrial Chic Aesthetics

Industrial chic aesthetics continue to be a strong influence on loft conversion designs in 2023. This style features elements like exposed brickwork, steel beams, and polished concrete floors. It’s characterized by a blend of raw materials and modern finishes, resulting in a look that’s both edgy and sophisticated. Incorporating vintage and repurposed furniture pieces can add a unique touch to your industrial loft conversion. Creating a space that’s trendy and visually intriguing.

Outdoor Living Spaces

In 2023, loft conversions are expanding beyond the four walls, with the integration of outdoor living spaces. This trend often includes the creation of rooftop terraces or balconies, providing homeowners with additional areas to relax and entertain. Outdoor spaces are designed with comfortable seating, greenery, and sometimes even small kitchens or fire pits. Making them a perfect extension of the indoor living area.

Conclusion

Loft conversions have come a long way from being dark, dusty spaces primarily used for storage. In 2023, they are embracing design and technology trends that make them more inviting, sustainable, and functional than ever before. From the abundance of natural light to smart home integration and versatile layouts, homeowners have a wealth of options to create their dream loft conversion. Whether you’re looking to expand your living space, work from home more comfortably, or simply enjoy a beautiful retreat, these loft conversion trends for 2023 offer something for everyone. It’s an exciting time to transform your loft into a space that truly reflects your style and needs.

Image: https://www.majorlofts.co.uk/portfolio-items/loft-conversions-ilford-3/

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Loft Conversion

A Simple Guide to Loft Conversion: Transforming Your Space

21st August 20230

Are you looking to add space and value to your home without the hassle of moving? A loft conversion might be the perfect solution for you. Loft conversions have become increasingly popular in recent years. Offering homeowners a fantastic way to create a functional and stylish new living area within their existing property. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps of a loft conversion, helping you turn that underutilized attic space into a beautiful and practical part of your home.

Assess Feasibility

The first step in any loft conversion project is to assess the feasibility of the project. Not all lofts are suitable for conversion, so it’s essential to have a professional survey done to determine whether your loft space is suitable. Factors like the height of the loft, the pitch of the roof, and any structural considerations need to be taken into account.

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

In many cases, loft conversions can be done under permitted development rights, which means you won’t need planning permission. However, it’s crucial to check with your local planning authority to ensure that your project complies with any regulations in your area. Additionally, loft conversions are subject to building regulations, which ensure safety and structural integrity. Working with a professional architect or designer can help you navigate these regulations.

Design and Layout

Once you have the green light to proceed, it’s time to think about the design and layout of your new loft space. Consider how you want to use the space – whether it’s an extra bedroom, a home office, a playroom, or a combination of functions. Keep in mind the layout, windows, lighting, and storage options that will best suit your needs.

Structural Changes

Depending on the existing layout of your loft and the desired final result, you might need to make some structural changes. This could involve reinforcing the floor, altering the roof structure, or adding dormer windows or skylights for more natural light. Consult with a structural engineer to ensure these changes are safe and compliant with regulations.

Hire Professionals

A loft conversion involves various trades, including architects, designers, builders, electricians, plumbers, and possibly even roofers. Hiring professionals who specialize in loft conversions is essential to ensure the project is completed successfully. They can guide you through each stage, provide expert advice, and manage the construction process.

Construction Phase

During the construction phase, your loft conversion plan will come to life. Builders will work on the structural changes, insulation, electrical and plumbing work, and interior finishes. Regular communication with your project manager or contractor is key to keeping the project on track and addressing any unexpected issues that may arise.

Finishing Touches

As the construction nears completion, it’s time for the finishing touches. Paint, flooring, lighting fixtures, and furniture will transform the space into a functional and visually appealing area. Consider using light colors and clever storage solutions to maximize the perceived space and create a comfortable environment.

Final Checks

Before moving into your newly converted loft space, make sure all necessary safety checks and inspections are carried out. This includes ensuring electrical and plumbing systems are up to code and that the space is properly insulated and ventilated.

Enjoy Your New Space

Congratulations, your loft conversion is complete! Whether you’re using it as a cozy bedroom, a serene home office, or a vibrant playroom, your new space is ready to be enjoyed. Take the time to add personal touches that reflect your style and make the space truly yours.

A loft conversion can provide a cost-effective way to enhance both the living space and value of your home. With careful planning, professional assistance, and attention to detail, you can transform your unused attic space into a functional and stylish area that meets your family’s needs for years to come.

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Loft Conversion

Step by Step Guide for Loft Conversion

5th June 20230

There are lots of steps that you need to take for a loft conversion. One of the daunting tasks is to find where to start. But fear not as we are here to help make this process easier for you. In this article, we are going to share the key steps that you consider for converting your loft.

Can You Convert Your Loft?

The first thing that you need to ensure is whether the loft space is suitable for conversion or not. Many houses have permitted development, which means the owner can convert the space without planning permission. But if you are living in another area of your roof space is not tall, then the process can be complicated. You need to ask a builder, architectural services provider, or a surveyor to figure this out for you. However, there are other checks too that you need to carry out on your own.

Other Conversions on Your Street

One of the best ways to figure out whether you can convert your loft is to see similar houses on your street with loft conversions. If there are some houses, then there is a possibility that you can do this too. We will advise you to take a step further and ask them to take a look at their loft.

Head Height

Another thing to consider is the height of the head. The minimum height required for a loft conversion is 2.2m. You do not need an expert to measure it, just take a tape measure and run from floor to the ceiling. If it is 2.2 or more, then you can easily convert the loft.

Type of Roof

The type of roof depends on when your house was built. Some of the homes have roof rafters, and some have trusses. You can quickly tell which kind of roof you have by looking through the loft hatch.

The rafters usually run along the edge of the roof. They leave most of the triangular space below hollow. In the case of trusses, these are supports that run through the cross-section of the loft. If you have trusses, then it is easy for you to convert the loft, but you will need extra support for the structure to replace them. Hence, it can cost more than rafters.

Flooring

Most of the people ignore the floor under the ceiling when planning a conversion. You need to consider the place where the staircase will go and how much space they will take up. Even if you have a well-designed staircase, it will still take a sizeable space. So, make sure that you have spare space to lose.

Type of Loft Conversion

Do you know about the types of a loft conversion? Fear not, there are only four main types of conversions: dormer, roof light, mansard, and hip-to-gable. Several factors determine your choice, including age and model of the house, and your budget.

Roof Light Conversion

If you are looking for a cheap and disruptive option, then roof light conversion is what you have. The reason is that this conversion does not require any changes in the pitch and shape of the roof. You just need to add skylight windows, adding a staircase, and laying a proper floor. However, you need to have a lot of space for this type of conversion.

Dormer Loft Conversion

This type of conversion is just a House Extension that protrudes from the slope of the roof. Flat-roof dormers are very popular these days and suitable for any house with a sloping roof. This type of loft conversion is expensive than roof light but cheaper than hip-to-gable or mansard. However, it can still help you get extra floor space and headroom.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

The third type of conversion is hip-to-gable, which works by extending the slope of the roof. You need to create a vertical ‘gable’ wall. In this way, you can create more space inside the loft. However, this type of conversion is only suitable for detached houses.

If you have a detached house, then you can build a hip-to-gable extension quickly with more space.

Mansard Loft Conversion

In this conversion, you need to alter the angle of the roof slope to make it more vertical. It is the most expensive conversion, but you can get a significant amount of extra space. It is suitable for many kinds of properties, such as detached, terraced, and semi-detached houses.

How to Choose A Builder?

You can find many builders in your region, but it is always better to start with a recommendation. You can ask your friends or family, or you can search online if there is any local builder. If anyone in your neighbourhood had done a loft conversion, knock at their door and ask about the builder. When searching online, never forget to read reviews before hiring them. We will advise you to contact their previous clients and ask about their experience working with the builder.

Loft Conversion

How To Create A Loft Conversion On A Budget

6th January 20230

Really want to add more living space to your home? Here’s how you can achieve a loft conversion on a budget.  

What Is A Loft Conversion?  

A loft conversion is the process of transforming an empty attic space into a functional room. And these are usually used as a bedroom, office space, gym, or storage space. 

Will You Need Planning Permission? 

So, most conversions do not require a planning permit, this is good because it will help save money on getting the permission. However, you are required to obtain permission if you alter the roof space in any way. If the head height of the roof is above 2.2 m you should be okay. But the best way to find out if you need permission is to check with the local council or planning officer. It is also good to check because if you go ahead without permission and you end up needing it, they can fine you. And that’s not what you want when trying to stay within a budget. 

Another way you can save some money is by not using an architect and doing the majority of the stuff DIY. There is no rule saying you need to have one, but it is highly recommended that you use architectural services when it comes to your project.  

It is a lot cheaper and straightforward to do a loft conversion compared to an extension. So, it is perfect for people who do not have much time and are on a budget. A dormer conversion is the cheapest type of loft conversion.  flat and shed roof dormers have simpler styles and reduce the cost.   

What Is A Dormer? 

A dormer loft conversion is when a box-shaped structure is added onto a pitched-shaped roof. Creating walls that sit at a 90-degree angle to the floor. This expands not only the headspace but the floor space as well.  

Dormer loft conversion,
A Dormer Loft Conversion

On average it can take up to 8 weeks or as little as 4 weeks, with certain styles less complex than others.  

Not everything about the conversion has to be professionally done. The interior finish can be your project. You can paint, wallpaper, hang curtains, fit the carpets. Anything that you do yourself is cutting costs.  

If you are including an En-suite in the loft hiring a plumber is an extra cost. Try positioning the bathroom right above the plumbing below, or near it. It saves a lot of work.  

If you are on a budget smaller loft conversions can benefit from the more natural light coming in. It is also good to use natural, lighter colours when decorating because it helps give the illusion of spaciousness.  

To be able to access the loft you would need a staircase to enter. A straight staircase is the most common style and affordable to build. The highest part of the loft, in line with the roof ridge, is an ideal location for the stairs.  

Pricing Of A Loft Conversion –  

There are many types of loft conversions which means the prices can differ. For a deluxe conversion expect to pay anywhere between £20,000 and £27,000. Whereas, the cost of a basic conversion could be somewhere between £9,800 and £12,500.   

For a DIY conversion the prices are a bit different:  

  • Price range – £9,400 – £48,000 
  • Average price – £29,100 
  • Cheap price – £9,400 

Although you might have done this project on a budget, a loft conversion can increase the house’s value by as much as 20%.  

Loft conversions
Loft Conversion

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Different types of bungalow loft conversions 

29th November 20220

Bungalows offer great loft conversion potential. They maximise the roof space and create plenty of possibilities. There are four main types of loft conversion that can be appropriate for bungalows. For example: a dormer, hip to gable, Velux, and mansard conversion. Here is a guide to figure out which one if best for your home.  

Types of loft conversions –  

Hip to gable –  

Firstly, a hip to gable loft conversion is where the sloping side of the roof is converted to a vertical gable wall to create more headspace. Bungalows which are semi-detached will often have a hipped roof that slopes at the side. This can be turned into a gable and you are left with a spacious loft and a great amount of head height.  

Benefits of a hip to gable conversion –  

The biggest benefit is the space that you will gain. All this additional room should increase the value of your home, especially if you are adding a bedroom or a bathroom. Also, the staircase from the lower level should be a continuation into the loft. So, this makes the entrance easier to access and uses less living space from the floor below.  

Price – 

Furthermore, the average cost of a hip to gable loft conversion is £40,000 – £50,000.  

Dormer –  

Secondly, dormers create a box shaped structure which is added onto a pitched roof, creating walls that sit at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Also, you can have a dormer in various positions on your roof and you can add more if you want a bigger room inside.  

Price –

So, the average cost of a dormer loft conversion is around – £35,000 – £55,000.  

Velux –  

Velux loft conversions are where the existing roof space is converted into living space without extending the roof structure. There are best for bungalows that already have enough head height. In addition, a roof light or Velux window would be added into the roof to make the new room bright.  

Price –  

Velux is usually the cheapest option because, it requires the least amount of work. Prices can start from £24,000.  

Mansard –  

Finally, a mansard can add a huge amount of space to your loft. A Mansard conversion has a flat roof with a slight fall to allow water to run into the gutter and the face of the Mansard slopes back 72 degrees to create the distinctive design. 

Image credit: Jeremy Phillips

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A guide to the different types of dormers  

9th November 20220

What is a dormer roof? 

Firstly, a dormer roof is a built-in structure which adds space and height in a loft, they often always contain windows. Dormers are a popular investment because they can open up a dark and stuffy room.  

Here are some of the different types of dormers:  

Gable fronted dormer –  

A gable dormer is the most common type. It has a simple pitched roof with two sloped planes, supported by a vertical frame that rises so that a triangle section forms. It’s also known as a dog house dormer because they have a similar shape.  

They aren’t the fanciest architectural designs, but they became popular due to the light, space, and symmetry it adds to the home. Also, they help water flow down the sides and away from the windows. This helps prevent flooding, leaks and structural damage to the home.  

Image: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/283586107756021214/

Hip roof dormer –  

A hipped dormer is a roof composed of three sloped planes that rise from each side of the frame and come together at the ridge. Hip roofs aren’t as common as gable roofs because they are more difficult to construct, due to the complex system of rafters and trusses.  

Flat roof dormer –  

The roof of this dormer is a single flat plane, which is horizontal. Although, they are slightly inclined to allow water to run off. Many people opt for a flat roof because they are cheaper to build, and they allow for bigger windows.   

https://liquidapplied.co.uk/portfolio-items/grp-fibreglass-flat-roofing/

Eyebrow/ eyelid dormer –  

This type of dormer is a low wide dormer with a curved roof and no sides. They emerged in Britain when homeowners began to build small arched windows in their cottages centuries ago.  

Wall dormer –  

Rather than setting the dormer partway up the roof’s slope, a wall dormer appears to be a continuation of the wall above eaves level. They aren’t that common dormer types since they don’t add a lot of aesthetic value to the house. 

(Image credit: Chris Snook )
Loft Conversion

What are the planning rules for Terraced House Loft Conversions? 

2nd November 20220

When homeowners are looking to add more space to their homes, loft conversions are a great route to look down. According to the ONS UK housing report, there are more than 30% terraced houses in the country. Most of the houses are situated in areas, where people want to live. Which is why many people are looking to add on to their property.  

Factors that need to be considered –  

There are factors which need to be considered when having a loft conversion in a terraced house, but some of them apply to any kind of loft conversion: 

  • Budget 
  • Planning constraints 
  • Access from the floor below 

Budget –  

Before you do any type of work on your home, you need to make sure that you can fit it in your budget. Well done loft conversions can be pricey. For example, a simple loft conversion starting costs can be around £25k.  

Planning application –  

Loft conversions on terraced houses don’t automatically require planning permission as long as they stay within the bounds of what is known as Permitted Development. 

A loft conversion will fall under permitted development and does not require planning permission as long as it meets the following conditions: 

  • The head height must be above 2.2m.  
  • The new loft space won’t be larger than 40 cubic meters for terraced houses. 
  • The loft conversion does not extend higher than the highest part of the existing roof. 
  • The loft conversion does not include any verandas, balconies, or raised platforms. 
  • It is made using materials that are similar in appearance to the rest of the house. 
  • Any side-facing windows must be obscure-glazed (to stop people from seeing in and out). 
  • Any side-facing windows must be at least 1.7m above the ground. 
  • Your home is not located in certain designated areas, including national parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), conservation areas, and World Heritage Sites. 
  • A roof extension, with the exception of hip-to-gable extensions, must be set back at least 20cm from the original eaves. 
  • A roof extension must not overhang the outer wall of the original house. 
Image: https://www.absolutelofts.com/galleries/aerial-view-of-l-shaped-dormer-loft-conversion-in-hackney-e5-east-london-victorian-terrace/

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The different types of stairs you can have in a loft conversion 

23rd September 20220

When it comes to loft conversions, some homeowners might be put off the idea because they don’t think they have enough upstairs. But there are some great alternatives to put the stairs in the right place to save some space. If you want to know some of the options and ideas to work with, then keep on reading the article. 

The regulations of stairs –  

Before we get into the types of stairs, here are some of the regulations you need to know before you start your design.  

  • There needs to be 2m of clear headroom over the stairs, although the regulations allow this to reduce to 1.8m at the lowest point if the stairs are under a sloping roof. 
  • The angle of your stairs should not be more than 42 degrees.  
  • The riser of each stair should be a minimum of 150mm and maximum of 220mm in height.  
  • The top of the stairs needs to be positioned at the highest part of the loft.  
  • You must include a handrail. 

Here are the different types of stairs –  

Spiral Stairs – 

Firstly, if you have tight space in the home, then spiral loft conversion stairs can be a great option to accommodate a small area in the loft. The staircase also looks great and can save some space. They cost less compared to other solutions.  

Stairs over stairs –  

An excellent idea for loft conversion stairs are to put them above the original stairs. It is an good idea because it usually is the most effective place for the stairs and most efficient. 

Paddle stairs – 

If you have very limited space paddle stair may be the best option for you. Although this type of staircase can only be used to serve a single room and an ensuite. This is to limit the amount of traffic that the stairs would have.  

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What beginners need to know about Velux loft conversions

28th June 20220

Velux Loft Conversion 

The name Velux is after a famous brand of loft windows. It also implies that this loft conversion done by installing Velux windows. 

For converting a loft, the head height of the loft must be sufficient enough. So, a person can stand under the roof without banging its head. Furthermore, if your loft has a hipped roof, then a hip-to-gable loft conversion is the best choice. The reason is that this conversion helps in increasing the space in the loft. 

If Velux loft conversion is what you are looking for, then you should call our team of structural engineers to arrange a site visit. Our qualified engineers will assess the space in the lift and other things to provide you with an accurate quote for the work required. 

Planning Permission 

In most of the cases, you do not need to apply for planning permission. Other loft conversions required significant changes to the roof but, Velux loft conversion does not need these alterations. You can do the construction under permitted development unless your house is in a heritage or conservation site. 

Cost of a Velux loft conversion –   

The average cost for a Velux loft conversion is around £27,500. However, there are various things that will affect the cost such as: 

  • Size of windows  
  • Number of windows required  
  • Type of windows  
  • Head height and space of your loft  
  • Where you live  
  • Style and quality of finishings   

When we compare this conversion with other loft conversions such as mansard loft conversion; It is the most cost-effective. You also need to keep in mind that you are not wasting your money. Instead, it is an investment in the property. Just like any other extension or conversion, it adds value to your property. If you have plans to sell the property in the future, you will get higher offers thanks to the extra space you have in the house. 

How much value does a Velux loft conversion add? 

As a guide a well built and perfectly appointed loft conversion can add between 10–20% to the value of your home, according to Ideal Home. But where do you start? As Schlüsseldienst Berlin states from its own experience it can be an overwhelming process, especially for those of us who’ve not been through major building works previously.  

Photo: VELUX