Clada Architecture
Brighton and Hove
(1)
Brighton and Hove
(1)
Chartered Architectural Technologist working throughout Brighton & Hove and London. Free Quote Calculator, Free Consultation, 3D Rendering services. If you have any question you can go onto my site, clada-architecture.com
1 customer review
Edward O Connell
Andrew has a wealth of experience and a vast skillset. Having worked with Andrew in the past I can say not many people have his keen eye for detail or his dedication to achieve perfection.
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How can someone tell if their loft is suitable for conversion?
Head Height: The most critical factor is the available head height. Measure the distance from the top of the ceiling joist to the underside of the ridge beam at the highest part of the loft. A minimum height of 2.2 metres is generally considered suitable for a loft conversion.
Roof Pitch and Structure: The pitch of the roof affects the headroom available and the feasibility of the conversion. A higher pitch usually provides more space. Traditional cut and pitched roofs are often easier to convert than modern truss section roofs, which may require additional structural support.
Access and Stairs: There must be enough room to fit a staircase to the loft, adhering to building regulations. This often means sacrificing space from a room below.
In the UK, loft conversions must meet specific building regulations for safety, including fire safety, structural stability, and sound insulation.
Consider how you will bring natural light into the loft. Options include roof lights or dormer windows, the latter often requiring planning permission.
Adequate ventilation is also needed to prevent condensation.
Think about how you will extend services like electricity, heating, and plumbing to the loft.
You might need to consider soundproofing
Run us through the different stages in the loft conversion process - what’s involved?
Initial Assessment and Design: This includes assessing the suitability of the loft for conversion and creating a design that meets your needs and complies with building regulations. During this stage, you might consult with an architect or a specialist loft conversion company.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations: If required, you'll need to obtain planning permission from your local council. Regardless, the design must adhere to UK building regulations, for which you'll need to submit detailed plans.
Structural Assessment: A structural engineer may need to assess the loft to determine if additional support is required for the new load of the conversion.
Preparation and Clearing: Before construction begins, the loft needs to be cleared out and prepared. This might involve installing scaffolding for external access.
Floor Reinforcement: The existing loft floor is generally only designed to bear light loads, so it usually needs reinforcing to support regular use.
Installing Windows and Dormers: Depending on the design, this stage involves fitting Velux windows or constructing dormer windows to provide natural light and extra headroom.
Roof Alterations and Insulation: The roof may need alterations, particularly for dormer conversions. It’s also at this stage that the roof is insulated.
Staircase Installation: A suitable staircase is constructed for safe and convenient access to the loft.
Electrical and Plumbing Work: If your design includes electrical and plumbing elements, these systems are extended from the main part of the house.
Plastering and Flooring: Once the main structure is in place, the loft is plastered and floored.
Final Touches and Decoration: This includes painting, fitting internal doors, and finishing any built-in furniture or storage solutions.
Building Control Sign-Off: Finally, a building control inspector will need to check the conversion to ensure it complies with all relevant regulations. Once approved, you'll receive a completion certificate.
What do you love most about your job?
Jumping from one activity to another, it's not boring.
What inspired you to start your own business?
Mid-life Crisis :) I've also wanted to do this for a long time. I've got more freedom to learn other skills and bring more to the services I provide such as rendering, animation, architectural photography, topographical surveys and photogrammetry. Not things you would normally learn in an office.
Why should our clients choose you?
I'm new to self-employment and I aim to please. With about 15 years of experience in the field varying from Interior design to Residential to commercial.
Can you provide your services online or remotely? If so, please add details.
I can provide both, especially in the Sussex and London areas.
Technical Drawings and Documentation
Technical construction drawings and take-offs
Building Control/Building Regulations
Services for Building Control/Building Regulations drawings and documents and applications
Planning Applications
From small rear extensions to large commercial
3D Visuals
From basic to photorealistic
Architecture Design
From concept designs to reality
Listed Buildings and Conservation areas
Delicate planning applications taken care off.
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