From the team behind Hampstead Renovations · Est. 2009 · Learn more
Case StudyHampstead, NW3May 2025

Dormer Loft Conversion, Hampstead

A rear dormer loft conversion on an Edwardian semi-detached house in Hampstead, creating a double bedroom with en-suite shower room and Velux rooflights to the rear pitch. The project required Camden LBC planning permission and was completed in 12 weeks.

Project Type

Dormer Loft Conversion

Duration

12 weeks

Project Value

£62,000

The Challenge

The Edwardian semi sat within the Hampstead Conservation Area but not within the Article 4 Direction zone, meaning a rear dormer could in principle proceed under Permitted Development — however, the size required exceeded standard PD limits, and the street's Character Appraisal identified the roofline as a defining feature. Camden's planning officers required a full application with design justification.

Our Solution

Our architect produced a Heritage Impact Assessment demonstrating that a rear dormer set well within the roofline, zinc-clad and with a shallow-pitched roof, would have no adverse impact on the character of the conservation area. The assessment referenced comparable approved dormers in the area. Planning was approved at officer level in 6 weeks.

Results

  • Camden planning approval at officer level in 6 weeks
  • Heritage Impact Assessment accepted first time
  • 28m² of new loft space created
  • Double bedroom with Velux rooflights and garden views
  • En-suite shower room with Porcelanosa tiles and thermostatic shower
  • New staircase with oak treads and painted balustrade
  • Building Regulations completion certificate issued

Key Features

  • Camden conservation area planning consent
  • Rear dormer — zinc cladding, shallow pitch
  • Velux Conservation rooflights to rear slope
  • En-suite with Porcelanosa tiling and thermostatic shower
  • Bespoke oak and painted staircase
  • Full insulation upgrade to Part L standards

Specification

ItemSpecification
Dormer claddingRHEINZINK standing-seam zinc, pre-weathered, to dormer cheeks and roof
RooflightsVelux Conservation GGL triple-glazed, centre-pivot, aluminium-capped
En-suite tilesPorcelanosa Marmol Calacatta large-format, 600×900mm, with electric UFH mat
ShowerHansgrohe Croma Select thermostatic shower system, brushed nickel
StaircaseEngineered oak treads on softwood carriage, painted MDF balustrade
InsulationRockwool between rafters with Celotex PIR board, achieving U-value 0.18

Interested in a similar project?

We work across all of NW London. Get a free, no-obligation quote for your project.