The Bennett Family Loft Conversion

Introduction to the Project

At LMB Group, we know that no two homes are the same. Every property comes with its own quirks, shapes, and structural features — and that’s exactly what makes designing a loft conversion so exciting. When the Bennett family in Wimbledon approached us, they had a clear goal: to make the most of their unused loft space, no matter its unusual shape.

The Bennetts loved their home, its location, and the surrounding community, but they had reached a point where they needed more space. With growing children and the demands of working from home, they wanted a loft that could be multi-functional — a place that could serve as a bedroom, a creative space, a study, or even a spot to relax away from the bustle of the rest of the house.

Our brief was simple in words but challenging in practice: use every inch of the loft, even the awkward corners, and transform it into a bright, practical, and beautiful space.

Understanding the Client’s Vision

During our first consultation, the Bennetts explained that flexibility was at the heart of what they wanted. They didn’t have a single, fixed use in mind for the loft — instead, they wanted it to adapt to their needs over time. This meant the design had to be open enough to accommodate different layouts and purposes, while still including enough built-in features to make the space immediately useful.

The family’s ideas included:

• A comfortable bedroom area for guests.

• A quiet corner that could work as a home office.

• A place to store hobbies and equipment neatly.

• Enough floor space for the children to use for play or study.

They also wanted the room to feel light and welcoming, regardless of its unusual roof angles.

Making the Most of Every Shape

When we surveyed the loft, it was clear that the shape of the roof would be one of the main considerations in the design. Parts of the loft had generous head height, while other areas sloped down quite low. Our job was to make sure none of this space went to waste.

By using a combination of a dormer extension and clever internal planning, we were able to create a layout that took advantage of every corner. The dormer added headroom where it mattered most — over the main living area — while the lower, sloped sections of the roof were used for built-in storage.

We also planned the position of windows carefully to ensure every part of the loft benefitted from natural light. Dormer windows and roof lights were placed to bring sunlight into the central areas, while smaller windows in the gable ends helped brighten the corners.

Design and Layout

The final design divided the loft into three distinct but connected zones. The main area served as a bedroom and relaxation space, with enough room for a double bed, side tables, and a small sofa. A home office area was positioned near one of the roof lights, giving the perfect balance of daylight and privacy. The third zone was dedicated to storage, with bespoke built-in wardrobes and shelving fitted into the eaves.

This arrangement meant the Bennetts could use the loft however they wished — it could serve as a guest suite one month, a home office the next, and a children’s playroom during the school holidays.

Structural Work and Build Process

Once the plans were agreed, our team began work by reinforcing the loft floor to meet building regulation standards for a habitable room. We then constructed the dormer extension, which instantly increased the usable floor area and improved headroom.

The dormer walls and roof were fully insulated to keep the space comfortable year-round. Soundproofing was also included to make the loft quieter, particularly important if it was going to be used for work or as a guest room.

The staircase was installed in line with the existing stairs for a seamless transition between floors. We matched the design of the bannisters and woodwork to the rest of the home, so the new addition felt like it had always been there.

Interior Finishes and Features

The Bennetts opted for a light, neutral colour palette to make the most of the natural light and keep the loft feeling open. Soft flooring was laid throughout to make it comfortable underfoot, and recessed LED lighting provided a clean, modern look.

The built-in storage was custom-made to fit the irregular shapes of the eaves. This included wardrobes, cupboards, and shelving that could store everything from clothes to craft supplies, ensuring the loft stayed tidy no matter how it was being used.

The home office area was designed with a built-in desk and shelves, giving a practical workspace without taking over the room. Positioned under a roof light, it had the perfect amount of daylight for working on a laptop or reading.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the main challenges was integrating the varying roof heights into a layout that felt spacious and practical. We achieved this by placing the furniture strategically, keeping taller pieces in the full-height areas and using the lower spaces for storage and seating.

Another consideration was ensuring the loft could adapt to the family’s changing needs. By avoiding fixed features in the main living area, we left the Bennetts with a flexible, open space that could be reconfigured easily.

The Bathroom Addition

Although the original brief didn’t specifically include a bathroom, the Bennetts decided partway through the design process that having a small en-suite would make the loft even more useful. We incorporated a compact bathroom into one corner of the space, complete with a walk-in shower, wall-hung vanity unit, and modern fixtures.

This addition made the loft a fully self-contained area, ideal for guests or for use as a private retreat. The bathroom’s design echoed the rest of the loft’s clean and neutral style, keeping the look consistent.

The Final Result

The transformation was dramatic. The once-unused loft was now a bright, multi-functional space that could serve any purpose the Bennetts chose. The bedroom area was welcoming and comfortable, the office space was practical and well-lit, and the built-in storage kept everything organised.

From the outside, the dormer blended neatly with the property’s architecture, while inside, the loft felt like a natural extension of the home. The family now had a space that could grow and change with them, providing value both in terms of daily living and long-term property appeal.

Client Feedback

The Bennetts were thrilled with the finished result. They told us the loft felt much bigger than they had expected and that they loved how every inch had been put to good use. The built-in storage was a particular favourite, as it meant the room could be kept clear and open no matter what it was being used for.

They also commented on how much they appreciated our willingness to adapt the design along the way — adding the bathroom, for example, had been a last-minute decision, but one that had made the space even more versatile.

Conclusion

This Wimbledon loft conversion for the Bennett family is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can make the most of any shape or size of space. By carefully planning the layout, making smart use of awkward corners, and incorporating flexible features, we created a loft that is both beautiful and endlessly adaptable.

For the Bennetts, it’s more than just an extra room — it’s a space that can change with their lifestyle, meeting their needs now and for years to come. Contact us for a free quote.