There are plenty of loft conversion ideas to consider before you start your project, from what you want to use the space for, to the design for the interior and exterior finishes.
Converted lofts can be awkward spaces to get right, from dealing with sloping ceilings to pockets of space that don't have much headroom, inspiration is key to getting the most from your space.
We've curated 32 of the very best modern loft conversion projects to make sure you're covered, from lighting and storage to glazing and cladding.
1. Use Loft Conversion Ideas to Explore the Best use of Space
Converting a loft into a usable room is a great idea for those who want to add some extra space without encroaching on the garden. They key to a successful design is to plan what the new area will be used for early on.
Whether it's a new master bedroom suite away from the hustle and bustle of downstairs, a home office, or an extra living room as children become teenagers, loft conversions are best designed with a firm purpose from the off.
2. Think about a Dormer Loft Conversion for Extra Head Room
While converting a loft is possible without extending, adding dormer windows will provide a little extra headroom, meaning every inch of the floor space is utilised — while saving a few bumped head along the way!
3. Include a Rooflight on a Dormer Roof Loft Extension
The deep dormer window designed by Amos Goldreich Architecture to extend this loft conversion space could have created a tunnel-like effect, but by incorporating windows around the dormer, including a rooflight above, the space is filled with light, creating the perfect spot for a bit of yoga.
Whilst this will add to loft conversion costs, the results are stunning.
4. Work With Awkward Spaces Where Possible in a Loft Conversion
If a dormer extension is not possible, make the most of a smaller space by creating features from alcoves, fireplace flues and, of course the vaulted ceiling which is included in so many loft conversions.
This example injects natural light with a rooflight and has positioned the toilet and smaller bathroom units under the eaves, freeing up space at the apex for a shower and the sink.
5. Position a New Master Suite in a Loft Conversion
While extending their Victorian terrace, Tim and Aisling Cooney added used bedroom loft conversion ideas to create a new master suite. Large sliding windows were added, as was a movable external screen made from corten steel to give the couple privacy in both the bedroom and the adjoining bathroom.
A partition wall was included behind the bed to maximise space and act as a private dressing area. Attention to detail in the new bedroom makes it a sanctuary from the busy downstairs area.
6. Decide on a Layout that Works Best from the Start
Deciding on the position of furniture right from the start will save a lot of headaches (and costs) further down the line. Work out what will be included in the new space and from there plan plug sockets, light fittings and any built-in storage accordingly.
Here, this small loft conversion has ingeniously positioned the compact radiator at the lowest point of the room, out of the way, while the route around the bed has plenty of headroom.
(MORE: How to get room sizes right)
7. Design a Split Level Loft Conversion Space
In this loft extension designed by Sean and Stephen Architects, a split level design helps to zone the open plan space, while retaining the light throughout and creating a sense of openness.
8. Don't Forget to Look at Ideas for Stairs in a Loft Conversion
Ensuring you have adequate space to comply with Building Regulations is essential, including sufficient headroom and fire safety.
Take a look at out guide to designing loft conversion stairs.
9. Tie in New Additions for Uniform Look
This loft conversion with dormer extensions beautifully unites the new additions with the existing house by repainting windows and utilising a similar rusty-coloured brick around the windows.
Finished with large sliding doors which open out to the new patio area (both in the same grey hue) has maximised the available space effortlessly.
10. Pack a Big Punch with a Small Loft Conversion
Even a small loft conversion is a new space full of opportunity so be sure to plan from the start what the new room will be used for to maximise design opportunities.
This compact loft conversion with mansard roof extension features a Juliet balcony in the boutique bedroom as well as the ultimate luxury, a freestanding tub.
(MORE: Types of Loft Conversion)
11. A Compact, Minimalist Loft Conversion Idea
Where usable space is an issue, make a feature of a streamlined design. The DHaus Company converted this loft in a Haringey home which had a turret-style roof, meaning it didn’t require an extension to achieve head height. However, it’s a long narrow room, so their design, which factors in a large, irregular rooflight, is simple, with just a bed and concealed LED lighting to illuminate the space.
12. Low Roof? Pick Rooflights for the Illusion of a Bigger Space
Many projects are unable to extend with a dormer due to budget constraints or planning restrictions but that's not to mean loft conversions aren't worth the effort.
Loft conversions with low headheights can be made to feel luxurious by using rooflights. Pair that with a smart layout, ingenious built-in storage and a freestanding tub like this project and you'll be onto a winner.
13. Highlight the Roof Line to Create a Feature
A loft conversion undoubtedly means dealing with the shape of your roof as part of the design. In this loft conversion by Syte Architects, LED lighting has been across the line of the roof to create a feature that defines the space and removes the need for bulky overhead lighting.
14. Designing Stairs for a Loft Conversion
Staircase design up to a loft conversion is often forgotten about but as they stitch together the new space and the rest of the house, they're fundamental to the success of a project.
This loft conversion and terrace extension utilised three half landings to cleverly create the illusion of extra space before leading out to the new rooftop garden.
15. Create a Before and After with Wow-factor
Before
After
Adding a dormer loft extension doubled the size of Jack Canning's dated 1960s bungalow, transforming it into a light, bright and spacious home that reflects its coastal location.
Jack reserved a large part of the new second storey for a luxurious master suite, which has a stunning vaulted ceiling, a Juliet balcony and a large rooflight overhead.
16. Create a Home Office Sanctuary in a Small Loft Conversion
Light, bright and away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, adding a home office into a loft conversion is the perfect choice for those struggling to work from their dining room table.
Working from home is now becoming the norm so a dedicated office space is up there on the list of spaces we now need.
A loft conversion into a home office is a great way to escape the main house and gives you the chance to shut down your laptop, shut the office door and go down to your relax in your home without being tempted to log back on - out of sight, out of mind!
If you plan on using your new loft space as an office you will need to consider effective storage from the outset. But with sloping ceilings and odd angles, you will likely find that standalone furniture is not up to the task.
Bespoke furniture, such as bookcases and desks, built to fit the awkward dimensions will keep the room looking stylish, while avoiding wasted space.
(MORE: Home Office Design)
17. Or how About a Home Gym?
It may not sound like the most obvious of applications for a loft conversion, but it can provide the perfect space for a home gym. Because of access issues, it’s unlikely that bulky cardio machines will fit up the loft stairs, however a loft conversion should provide ample space for a weights gym. While a proper conversion should factor in a floor that’s strong enough to deal with the extra weight of, well, weights, it’s a good idea to mention this as a potential use for the space at the start of the project.
18. Design a Tranquil Master Bedroom
Converting a loft into a bedroom or master suite is a hugely popular idea, adding value as well as useful extra space.
Particular consideration should be given to blinds when creating a bedroom — the light that comes in from roof windows tends to be bright and you don’t want to be woken at the crack of dawn.
(MORE: Loft Conversion Cost)
There are several options when it comes to choosing blinds for roof windows — but in a bedroom, a blackout blind is a must. Choose one that is designed to prevent light seeping in from the sides. Both Velux and Blinds 2go offer a large range of blackout blinds.
You will also need to provide clothes storage. Under-eaves storage, using space too low for freestanding cupboards, rails or shelving, is a great idea. Alternatively, look into having fitted wardrobes made to suit your specific space.
(MORE: Best Skylight Blinds)
19. Add a Bathroom in the Loft
It can be really useful to locate bathroom facilities in a loft conversion. A loft bedroom usually warrants more extensive bathroom facilities, whereas a study or games room might only need a toilet and basin.
A loft bathroom doesn’t have to take up much space, but make sure there is sufficient headroom. A minimum floor space of around 1 x 2.6m is sufficient for a shower room with WC and basin — head height will be required over the shower, but the ceiling can slope where the toilet cistern is.
(MORE: Bathroom Design)
20. Or Create a Whole Master Suite in the Loft
Create a hide-away from it all that's only for you by building in both a master bedroom and en suite in the loft conversion.
An extra shower room or small bathroom adds plenty of value to a house while offering a spot to release your personality on the new space, as in this quirky master bedroom.
21. Create a Living Room in the Loft Space
An extra living room in the loft space is a great idea — perhaps you have older children who might appreciate their own space or maybe you like the idea of a second TV room or just a chill out space to escape up to at the end of a long day.
22. Ideas for Dealing with Planning Permission
Adding a dormer window to your loft can be a straightforward way to incorporate more space overhead.
However, in this loft conversion by Konishi Gaffney Architects, strict planning rules within this local conservation area meant installing a conventional dormer window wasn’t possible. Instead, a low profile, long dormer was fitted meaning it has less of a visual impact than a dormer positioned close to the eaves. The addition has been clad in anthracite zinc.
(MORE: Ultimate Guide to Planning Permission)
23. Convert Your Loft Into a Den
The loft is the perfect spot for a games room, hobbies room or den. Take time to really consider what you will be using the space for — a home cinema or music room will have different lighting requirements than a hobby space, for example.
If the activities taking place here are likely to be noisy, give some thought to soundproofing. You need not only to consider footfall noise but, if you are in a terrace or semi-detached house, the transference of noise from one house to the next. There are plenty of ways to add soundproofing:
- Thermal insulation in walls, ceilings and floors provides noise insulation, as well as thermal
- High-density acoustic plasterboard acts as a good sound blocker
- A high-density acoustic membrane helps prevent sound transfer between walls and ceilings
- Mineral wool between floor joists also helps — acoustic mineral wool offers triple the density of standard loft insulation, giving a good sound absorbing layer and thermal insulation
- In music rooms, adding foam tiles to walls and ceilings will increase sound absorption
- Consider triple-glazed windows where the new room will generate high noise levels
- Use carpet as opposed to hard flooring
- Any new plumbing should include acoustic pipe insulation
24. Loft Conversion Lighting Ideas
In this top floor master suite, Neil Dusheiko Architects concealed dimmable LED lights have been fitted along the perimeter to give the timber structure a soft glow.
When planning your loft conversion, make sure you fully consider the lighting design to achieve a higher-quality space which can be enjoyed at any time of day.
25. A Kid-friendly Loft Conversion Idea
A great idea for a loft conversion idea is turning the space in the eaves into a den or children's bedroom. They can use the space to sleep, play and hang out.
Bespoke built-in storage will help to keep clutter under control, and keeping walls and floors light will help a smaller space feel bigger. Bursts of colour on feature walls (or ceiling slopes) can help to zone the room, while bean bags and cushions in contrasting colours will provide flexible comfort.
26. At-Home Entertaining Loft Conversion Idea
With more of spending time at home, having a dedicated space to entertain is on the wish-list. A home bar is a quirky idea and will work in any size loft space.
Sloping ceilings and odd angles will work to your advantage when it comes to storage or seating.
Go bold with colour, plants and soft furnishings, or keep things neutral for a more understated look. If you have opportunity to create a roof terrace, then choose the same flooring for both the indoor and outdoor area to make them feel like one cohesive space.
27. Create a Loft Room With a View
Maximising natural light is a great idea for a loft conversion and being up high provides a great opportunity to take advantage of your views.
Think about whether you could incorporate some full-height glazing, either fixed or opening, or rooflights. French or sliding doors opening out to a Juliet balcony mean light, fresh air and a sense of space can all be achieved, but the feasibility of adding these will depend on the type of conversion you are carrying out.
28. A Multi-functional Loft Conversion Idea
If you have older children, housemates or relatives living with you, then creating a self-contained space for them in the loft can be a great use of space.
Equally, if you live in a flat and own the loft space, moving your living space up-top can offer a great opportunity to create a multi-functional space that's full of light and can take in the views.
29. A Luxurious Loft Conversion Idea
Darker tones can be paired with metallics to create a luxurious yet cosy feel in an attic master suite — and in this example, the bespoke dark grey low-level partition cleverly conceals a dressing area from the large-format window opposite while still letting in the light.
30. How to Use Alcoves and Recesses in the Design
When Mustard Architects created a modern open-plan home office on the top floor of this home they utilised the alcove in the existing brickwork to provide a handy space for storing office paraphernalia.
31. Turn a Loft Conversion Into a Rooftop Sanctuary
There’s no reason why the top storey of your house shouldn’t benefit from access to outdoor space. Designed by Edward McCann Architects, this loft extension to a terraced house opens out onto a small outdoor terrace. Folding doors have been used to maximise the width of the aperture, establishing a bright and breezy feel inside.
32. Cladding Your Loft Conversion
This ply-lined attic space provides a tranquil reading room for the two academics who live here. Shelving has been incorporated in the eaves to display the owners’ eclectic array of ornaments and artwork. The scheme was completed by Studio Octopi under Permitted Development rights.
