From the team behind Hampstead Renovations · Est. 2009 · Learn more
Case StudySt John's Wood, NW8December 2024

Dormer Loft Conversion, St John's Wood

A rear dormer loft conversion on a Victorian end-of-terrace villa in St John's Wood, creating a generous master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite. Westminster City Council planning permission was obtained and the project was completed in 14 weeks.

Project Type

Dormer Loft Conversion

Duration

14 weeks

Project Value

£78,000

The Challenge

St John's Wood Conservation Area falls within Westminster, which has a particularly design-conscious approach to dormer conversions. The property was an end-of-terrace villa where the side elevation was also visible from the street, meaning both the rear dormer and any rooflights had to be carefully positioned to satisfy Westminster's conservation officers. An adjoining property had recently had a dormer refused.

Our Solution

Our architect reviewed the refused neighbour application to understand Westminster's specific concerns and designed accordingly: a rear dormer set in from both side returns, clad in lead, with a parapet-style front face to reduce the visual mass when viewed from the street. Rooflights were positioned on the rear slope only. Westminster approved in 9 weeks.

Results

  • Westminster planning approval in 9 weeks — first submission accepted
  • Lead-clad dormer with parapet face — conservation officer praise noted
  • 32m² of loft space created
  • Master bedroom with bespoke fitted walk-in wardrobe
  • En-suite bathroom with underfloor heating and rain-head shower
  • Estimated property value increase: £145,000
  • Building Regulations completion certificate issued on schedule

Key Features

  • Westminster conservation area planning consent
  • Lead-clad rear dormer with recessed parapet face
  • Walk-in wardrobe — bespoke fitted joinery
  • En-suite with Duravit sanitaryware and underfloor heating
  • Velux Conservation rooflights to rear pitch only
  • Acoustic insulation package for party wall

Specification

ItemSpecification
Dormer claddingCode 4 lead, traditional bossed method to cheeks; lead roll to parapet coping
RooflightsVelux Conservation triple-glazed, two units to rear pitch only
En-suiteDuravit D-Neo wall-hung WC and basin, Hansgrohe Raindance shower, Porcelanosa tile
UFHWarmup Foil underfloor heating mat under porcelain throughout en-suite
Wardrobe joineryBespoke painted Shaker-fronted wardrobe, full-height, soft-close throughout
Acoustic treatmentRockwool RWA45 between party wall joists, Gypframe resilient bar to ceiling

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