The Whitmore Family Hip to Gable Conversion

Introduction to the Project

At LMB Group, we are regularly approached by homeowners who want to unlock the full potential of their property without having to move. The Whitmore family in Guildford came to us with exactly that goal. Their semi-detached home had a hipped roof, which meant their loft space was small and awkward, making it unsuitable for a full conversion without some structural changes.

After discussing their needs and assessing the property, we recommended a hip to gable loft conversion. This design would allow us to extend the roofline, create a much larger internal space and give them the opportunity to add a completely new floor that could meet their growing family’s needs.

Understanding the Client’s Vision

The Whitmores loved their home and the surrounding area but were running out of space. They wanted a loft conversion that could provide an additional bedroom and a modern bathroom, along with storage solutions that would help keep their home tidy and organised.

They were also keen for the new space to feel like a natural extension of their house, with plenty of natural light, clean lines and a layout that would suit their family for years to come.

Why a Hip to Gable Loft Conversion

In properties with a hipped roof, the loft space often narrows sharply at the sides, making it difficult to achieve a usable floor area. By converting the hip into a gable – effectively extending the side wall of the property up to the ridge height – we could create a much more spacious, square-shaped loft.

This change meant we could fit in a full-sized bedroom and bathroom with comfortable head height throughout. It also gave us flexibility in the layout, allowing us to design the new rooms exactly as the Whitmores wanted.

Planning and Design

We began by surveying the property to confirm that the hip to gable extension would work structurally and to determine how best to integrate it with the existing roofline. As the changes would alter the shape of the roof, we guided the Whitmores through the permitted development checks and planning considerations.

The final design featured a large rear dormer alongside the hip to gable extension. This combination created maximum usable floor space while giving the exterior a balanced, cohesive appearance. Inside, the new bedroom was positioned at the rear of the house, with wide windows offering views over the garden. The bathroom was designed with a modern walk-in shower, stylish fixtures and finishes that would be easy to maintain.

Structural Work and Build Process

The first stage of the build was to remove the hipped roof section and extend the side wall up to the ridge height, forming the new gable end. We then constructed the rear dormer, which added even more internal space and allowed for the inclusion of large windows.

The new roof structure was fully insulated to meet modern energy standards, ensuring the loft would be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. A new staircase was fitted directly above the existing one, maintaining a natural flow between floors. The staircase was finished to match the existing woodwork in the home, blending old and new seamlessly.

Interior Finishes and Features

The bedroom was finished with a light, neutral palette to maximise the sense of space and brightness. Built-in wardrobes were fitted into the eaves to provide generous storage without encroaching on the floor area.

The bathroom was a standout feature of the conversion. The walk-in shower, finished with modern tiling and a frameless glass screen, gave it a contemporary look, while underfloor heating added comfort. A wall-hung vanity unit kept the space open and easy to clean, and carefully positioned lighting completed the sleek design.

Challenges and Solutions

The main challenge in a hip to gable conversion is ensuring the new gable end blends perfectly with the rest of the property. In this case, we matched the brickwork and roof tiles to the original materials, so the extension looked like it had always been there.

Another consideration was managing the build to minimise disruption for the family, who remained in the house throughout. Careful scheduling and maintaining a tidy work site meant the project progressed smoothly and with minimal inconvenience.

The Final Result

The transformation was remarkable. The Whitmores’ home gained a spacious new bedroom and a modern bathroom, both filled with light and finished to a high standard. The hip to gable extension and rear dormer combination maximised the available space while keeping the property’s exterior balanced and in harmony with neighbouring homes.

Inside, the new floor felt like an integral part of the house, with a staircase and finishes that tied everything together. The family now had the space they needed without having to leave the home and community they loved.

Client Feedback

The Whitmores were delighted with their new loft conversion, describing it as “a game changer” for their family life. They were particularly impressed with how much space the conversion created and how well the new rooms blended with the rest of the house. The bathroom’s modern design and practicality were also highlights for them.

Conclusion

This hip to gable loft conversion in Guildford shows how a clever design can completely transform a home. By altering the roof shape and adding a dormer, we turned a cramped attic into a spacious and modern top floor, perfectly tailored to the Whitmore family’s needs.

For the family, it means more space, comfort and functionality. For us at LMB Group, it’s another example of how thoughtful planning, skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail can deliver outstanding results that enhance both the lifestyle and the value of a home.