The Thompson Family Mansard Conversion

Introduction to the Project

At LMB Group, we specialise in creating high-quality loft conversions that transform how our clients live in their homes. The Thompson family, based in Epsom, Surrey, came to us with a clear challenge. Their beautiful period home had character and charm in abundance, but it lacked the space they needed as their family grew. They wanted a full new floor that would give them generous bedrooms, a stylish bathroom and a layout that maximised natural light and storage. After assessing the property and their needs, we recommended a mansard loft conversion – a design perfectly suited to their style of home and their space requirements.

Understanding the Client’s Vision

The Thompsons loved their home and its location in a quiet residential part of Epsom. Moving was not on their agenda, but with two children sharing a room and a lack of guest space, something had to change. They wanted a loft conversion that would provide at least two spacious bedrooms and a large bathroom, while keeping the style sympathetic to their property’s period look.

They also placed a strong emphasis on light. Although a mansard loft conversion creates an almost full-height room across the entire loft floor, careful planning is still needed to ensure windows and skylights are placed to capture daylight throughout the day.

Why a Mansard Loft Conversion

A mansard loft conversion was the best choice for the Thompson home for several reasons. Structurally, a mansard involves raising the party wall on one or both sides of the property and altering the roof slope to create a near-vertical rear face. This dramatically increases usable space compared to a standard dormer and allows for more versatile room layouts.

For the Thompsons’ property, it also had aesthetic benefits. The mansard design blended beautifully with the rear elevations of neighbouring houses, many of which had undergone similar conversions. This meant the finished result would look as though it had always been part of the original home.

Planning and Design

Mansard conversions usually require planning permission, and this project was no exception. Our in-house design and planning team prepared detailed drawings and handled the application process, working closely with the local council to ensure the design met all necessary requirements.

The agreed plan featured two large bedrooms on the new floor, positioned at either end of the loft space. Between them sat a generous family bathroom, complete with a full-sized bath, walk-in shower and plenty of storage. We incorporated large rear-facing windows into the mansard wall, and added skylights to the front slope of the roof, allowing sunlight to reach all areas of the new floor.

Structural Work and Build Process

The build began with strengthening the existing loft floor joists to meet building regulation standards for a habitable space. We then raised the party walls and constructed the mansard roof, carefully tying it into the existing structure. The change in roof angle transformed the space from an awkwardly shaped attic into a floor with almost full-height ceilings from wall to wall.

Insulation was installed to a high standard, ensuring the new rooms would be energy-efficient and comfortable year-round. The exterior was finished with materials chosen to match the style of the house, ensuring the new structure felt like a natural extension of the property.

The staircase was designed and built to flow seamlessly from the first floor, positioned to avoid taking space from existing rooms. We matched the detailing of the new staircase to the original bannisters and woodwork, keeping the period character intact.

Interior Finishes and Details

The two new bedrooms were finished in a light, neutral palette to keep them bright and versatile. Built-in wardrobes were fitted into the eaves, making the most of every inch of space while keeping the rooms clutter-free.

The bathroom became a standout feature of the project. With space for a bath and a separate walk-in shower, it offered the Thompsons both luxury and practicality. Underfloor heating, modern tiling and high-quality fixtures gave it a contemporary edge, while the choice of colours kept it timeless.

Lighting was carefully planned, with recessed LED lights throughout and feature wall lights in the bedrooms. Combined with the generous natural light from the windows and skylights, this gave the whole floor a fresh and welcoming atmosphere.

Challenges and Solutions

A mansard conversion is one of the more involved types of loft work, and the main challenge here was ensuring the structural changes to the roof and party walls were carried out without disruption to the neighbours. Clear communication and careful scheduling meant the work went smoothly, with minimal inconvenience to those living next door.

We also had to work within the restrictions of the property’s plot, ensuring the new structure did not overshadow neighbouring gardens or affect their privacy. Our design team used creative positioning of windows and roof slopes to comply fully with these requirements while still delivering an open, airy feel inside.

The Final Result

The transformation was dramatic. The Thompsons’ home went from a two-storey house with a cramped attic to a spacious three-storey property with a full extra floor of living space. The two new bedrooms were comfortable and bright, while the bathroom provided a touch of luxury for daily life.

From the outside, the mansard roof blended seamlessly into the street scene, complementing the period architecture and looking as though it had always been part of the house. From the inside, it felt completely natural – a true extension of the home’s existing style and flow.

Client Feedback

The Thompsons were delighted with the results, telling us the new floor had transformed how they lived as a family. Their children now had their own rooms, guests could be accommodated with ease, and the extra bathroom made mornings far less stressful. They also remarked on how the light in the new rooms made the whole space feel uplifting and welcoming.

Conclusion

This mansard loft conversion in Epsom is a perfect example of how the right design can unlock a home’s potential. By choosing a mansard, the Thompsons gained maximum floor area and ceiling height, all while keeping the new structure sympathetic to the property’s period style.

For the family, it means more space, more comfort and a home that will meet their needs for many years to come. For us at LMB Group, it was another chance to show how thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship and careful planning can deliver exceptional results.