This 3 bed semi needed some investment and has certainly been transformed. Sycamore were contracted to extend the rear, add a utility and upgrade the kitchen. At that time, little did we know our clients would also ask us to add a downstairs shower room, a front porch and convert the attic while we’re at it!! But the best decision was to deck their steep garden from the extension into the beautiful trees behind. It really feels like a tree house now.
Extra space made special, upstairs and down in this project for an attic conversion and a garden room extension.
Bringing the outside in, we created a room for all seasons, a new living space for relaxing and making the most of the sunny aspect. The feature of this year round room is a high, long window bringing in plenty of light.
Making double use of extra space we converted the attic for a spare bedroom come hideaway. Incorporating spray foam insulation in the roof rafters for sound proofing and energy saving, this space is now warm and very quiet. The beautiful and imaginative glass balustrade connects the original and new upstairs rooms while adding yet more light and a sense of space and openness.
In our experience at Sycamore, there are a few preparatory steps which save our clients a lot of hassle in the long run: A scaled drawing, a firm idea of what you would like priced and your own budget expectations. “You don’t want a design for something you can’t afford…” Hiring a professional like an architect or quantity surveyor is about “spending money to save money.” Before you speak to a bulder, an architect (or designer) should be the first port of call.
“Instead of asking how much will it cost, you should ask how much can you spend.” From The Irish Times – Life & Style – Joanne Hunt – Thu, Apr 16, 2020.
Tailoring a renovation to our client’s budget is our specialty. It is beneficial to know what’s possible within a range rather than discussing ideas and expectations which may be unachievable once the bottom line becomes clear. It is refreshing to see this article distinguishing between market rates for new extension work and all the other costs which come into play once you alter an existing house.
Loft conversions are a great way to carve out that much sought after extra space. In her article, Alanna Gallagher outlines the various types of attics and their pros & cons as well as the regulations guiding this work.
Consider access, light & ventilation options and of course, sign off & insurance
