Nova Habitat

1. Feasibility and initial Planning

Site Survey and Feasibility Study – A professional assessment to check if your loft is suitable for conversion (head height, structure, access, etc.).

Define Your Goals Decide the purpose of the space (e.g., bedroom, office, en-suite) and your budget.
Preliminary Design and Cost Estimates – An initial concept plan is drawn up to explore layout possibilities and costs.

2. Design and Planning Approval

Architectural Drawings – Detailed design plans, including layouts, structural elements, and staircase placement.
Permitted Development or Planning Permission? – Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development (no formal permission required), but if altering the roofline significantly, you’ll need planning approval from the local council.
Party Wall Agreement – If your property is terraced or semi-detached, a Party Wall Agreement may be required with your neighbours before work starts.

3. Building Regulations and Structural Preparations

Building Regulations Application – Submission to Building Control to ensure the conversion meets fire safety, structural integrity, and insulation standards.
Structural Calculations & Engineer Approval – A structural engineer assesses whether reinforcements are needed for joists, beams, or roof support.

4. Construction and Build Phase

Strengthening the Loft Floor – Existing joists are reinforced or replaced to support the extra weight.
Roof Adjustments (if required) – Dormers, skylights, or mansard extensions are built according to the approved design.
Installing Windows & Insulation – Roof windows or dormers are fitted, and insulation is installed to meet thermal efficiency standards.
Building the Staircase – A permanent staircase is installed for easy access, following UK regulations on steepness and head height.

Electrics, Plumbing and Heating – Wiring, lighting, sockets, and any plumbing (for bathrooms) are installed.

5. Interior Finishing and Sign-Off

Plastering and Decorating – The space is finished with plasterboard, paint, flooring, and final fixtures.
Final Inspections – A Building Control officer will check compliance and issue a completion certificate.

Handover and Move-In – Once approved, your new loft space is ready to be enjoyed.

What we love most is seeing our clients' ideas come to life. There’s something incredibly rewarding about taking someone’s vision, often just a rough idea or dream, and transforming it into a tangible, beautifully designed space. Whether it's an extra bedroom for a growing family or a stunning open-plan kitchen, being part of that journey and seeing the joy it brings to homeowners is why we do what we do.

Nova-Habitat was founded to bring trust, clarity, and creativity back into the home design and renovation process. We saw far too many homeowners feeling overwhelmed or misled by individuals and companies offering low quality services without the proper knowledge, care, or legal compliance.

These are providers who often overpromise and underdeliver leading to costly mistakes, planning issues, or poor workmanship. We created Nova-Habitat to be the antidote to that: a reliable, end to end service that guides clients from concept to tender with full transparency, high design standards, and a genuine commitment to getting it right.

1. A Seamless, All-in-One Service

We handle everything under one roof, from feasibility studies and planning applications to building regulations and tendering. Instead of juggling multiple professionals, you get one expert team managing the entire process.

2. Clear Communication and Flexibility

Many firms limit revisions and leave clients feeling unheard. We take a collaborative approach, offering video call consultations, regular updates, and a clear process so you always know what’s happening.

3. Designs That Add Real Value

Beyond great design, we focus on maximising your property’s value. With our business and financial expertise, we help ensure that your investment is not only functional but also a smart financial decision.

4. Planning and Regulations Expertise

We understand the complexities of UK planning laws and work proactively to avoid delays and rejections. Our knowledge of building regulations ensures that designs are not just beautiful, but buildable and compliant.

5. Industry-Leading Technology

Unlike firms relying on outdated methods, we use 3D site surveys, digital modelling, and visualisation tools to bring your project to life before construction even begins, helping you make fully informed decisions.

6. A Stress-Free, Enjoyable Process

Renovating or extending your home should be exciting, not overwhelming. We simplify the process, remove the uncertainty, and bring back the excitement of creating a home that truly works for you.

With Nova Habitat, you’re not just hiring an architect. You’re partnering with a team that is invested in your success from start to finish.

Yes, we offer a seamless online service for most of the process, from consultations and planning drawings to design reviews and project updates. However, we also carry out physical site visits with one of our experienced architectural designers to ensure accuracy and provide that crucial personal touch. This hybrid approach allows us to deliver both convenience and precision, ensuring every project is handled with care from the ground up.

We've embraced advanced technology to prioritise safety without compromising service. By implementing 3D site surveys and virtual walkthroughs, we significantly reduce the number of in person visits required. This not only keeps clients and our team safer but also streamlines the planning process, allowing accurate assessments and collaboration to happen remotely whenever possible.