In the past, if a growing family meant we’d run out of space in our homes, we’d probably start thinking about buying a new one. But now with a sluggish property market and the high cost of moving, suddenly the idea of staying put and making the most out of our homes seems much more appealing.
One way to increase the space in our homes is to look upwards, into the loft. Not only will it give you extra space – but converting your loft can add to the value of your home. However, it can also be expensive. A loan may be a convenient way to pay.
With their location at the top of the house, loft conversions are usually made into extra bedrooms. When space is limited that’s a great option, but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be more creative.
So what would you do in your dream loft conversion? Here are some ideas for inspiration.
1. Home office
If you’re currently working at the kitchen table surrounded by breakfast dishes and noisy children, making the loft into an office could be ideal for you. Far away from communal areas, you’ll finally be able to work in some peace and quiet, as well as having plenty of storage space for your office equipment.
2. Bathroom
There’s nothing more frustrating than having to wait for a shower in the morning, especially when there are two beauty-conscious teenagers in the queue ahead of you. That’s why turning the loft into another bathroom can be a good option for those with large families. You may need to use a pump to boost your water pressure if you’re planning on installing a shower. Channel 4 Homes has some great ideas.
3. Children’s playroom
Lofts usually have the large amounts of floor space that are ideal for imaginative play, plus it doesn’t matter if head height is limited. Having the loft as a playroom could also solve problems in the rest of the house. A designated space for all the toys means you’ll finally be able to see the lounge floor again, while the children’s bedrooms will be able to accommodate proper-sized beds and desks for homework. The room can also change as your children grow, becoming a comfortable den with its own TV and games for your teenagers to enjoy with their friends.
4. Hobby room
Escape from the world by using your loft as your own private hobby room. You could turn it into a reading nook and library with bookshelves in the eaves, install a pool table or indulge your crafty side with sewing machines and plenty of space for your projects. Or why not make it a peaceful place to practise yoga without the kids disturbing your inner calm?
5. Home cinema
The loft makes a great space for a spectacular home cinema. Your builder can discuss sound-proofing to make sure you’re not going to disturb anyone, and an electrician can install the latest technology such as surround-sound speakers.
This is a sponsored post by guest blogger Tamsin McCahill on behalf of Sainsbury’s Bank
About Guest Author
13 Days Left 
20 Days Left 
2013/05/03
2013/04/15
I wish I had a loft I could convert! I’m currently working at a desk but it’s in the living room. So I get distracted a lot. Love your tips on what to convert a loft into!
Alison recent post: Hunter’s First Day Of School
I wish I had a loft as well! Maybe a new house instead:)
Alicia recent post: Tiny Tilla by Avon- Child’s Clothing Review
We’re hoping for that new house too =P
I wish I had a loft to convert, great ideas.
amber recent post: Starbucks Gift Card Flash #MissionGiveaway
We have a big open room upstairs. It’s not a loft but we’ve been trying to figure out what to do with it forever. These are some great suggestions! I’d love to be able to turn it into a master bedroom with bathroom.
Tesa @ 2 Wired 2 Tired recent post: Enter To Win A Trip For 4 To Disney World
That is a great idea, Tesa!
Great ideas – we built a tiny loft for storage and it has been a necessity for our tony 500 sf home!
Jeana recent post: DIY Halloween Decorations: Spooky Clothes Pin Bat
Is is sad that I secretly wish we had a loft so I could make it my office? These are some great idea.
Cassie recent post: Ride Closures at Walt Disney World this fall {#WDW}
Girl, me too!
Great tips!
Kas
Kasandria Reasoner recent post: Disney’s Frankenweenie Monstrous Sweepstakes
I just love this, I wish I had a loft area to transform.
Kristin recent post: Search for the Perfect Fit #CinderellaSlippers
We turned our formal dining room into a playroom. Great tips!
Emily @FamilyNLifeLV recent post: September 11th Remembered
That is a great idea too!
When I was growing up our loft, once the playroom, actually became a bedroom. My mom converted a third of our 3 car garage into a playroom/media room for the kids.
Amy @ Oh So Savvy Mom recent post: Wordless Wednesday: “Naughty”
That’s awesome!! I hope one day we have enough space to have a separate playroom, instead of the bedrooms.
what great ideas! thanks for sharing!
Vanessa: the queen of swag ! recent post: Yummy Garlic Chicken and Our Date Night Out with Net10 Wireless! #levantateun10
This is superb idea, loft conversion can solve to your space constraints at the same time it will enhance the beauty of your home.