From the team behind Hampstead Renovations · Est. 2009 · Learn more
Case StudyHighgate, N6May 2025

Loft Conversion, Highgate

A rear dormer loft conversion to a Victorian terraced house in Highgate, creating a double bedroom with en-suite shower room and Velux rooflights. Haringey LBC planning permission was required as the property sat in Highgate Conservation Area.

Project Type

Dormer Loft Conversion

Duration

13 weeks

Project Value

£72,000

The Challenge

The Victorian terrace was within Highgate Conservation Area and Haringey LBC's policy required a Heritage Impact Assessment for the dormer. The original roof structure was a cut rafter type with no ridge board, which required a new ridge beam and purlin system to be installed before the dormer could be formed. The staircase position within the house was constrained — the only viable route required taking space from the third bedroom below.

Our Solution

Our structural engineer designed a new ridge beam and purlin system to be installed in sections through the existing roof coverings, minimising the period of exposure. Our architect produced the Heritage Impact Assessment in two weeks, referencing Haringey's own design guidance. The staircase was designed as a space-saving alternating-tread stair within a minimal footprint, reducing the impact on the bedroom below to a single wardrobe alcove.

Results

  • Haringey planning approval with Heritage Impact Assessment accepted
  • New ridge beam and purlin system installed in two days
  • 26m² of loft space created
  • Double bedroom with Velux rooflights and treetop views
  • En-suite shower room — Hansgrohe Croma shower, Porcelanosa tiles
  • Space-saving alternating-tread staircase — minimal impact on bedroom below
  • Estimated property value uplift: £110,000

Key Features

  • Haringey conservation area planning consent
  • Heritage Impact Assessment prepared and accepted
  • New ridge and purlin structural system
  • Double bedroom with treetop Velux views
  • En-suite with thermostatic shower and heated towel rail
  • Space-saving alternating-tread staircase

Specification

ItemSpecification
Ridge and purlin systemNew C24 timber ridge beam and purlins, structural calculations certified
Dormer claddingZinc standing-seam, pre-weathered graphite, to dormer cheeks and flat roof
RooflightsVelux Conservation GGL 3073, triple-glazed, two units to rear pitch
En-suite tilesPorcelanosa Rodano Caliza, 450×900mm, half-height to main walls, full height to shower
Shower fittingHansgrohe Croma Select S 180 MultiSync, concealed thermostatic valve, chrome
StaircaseAlternating tread oak stair with powder-coated steel string, minimal footprint design

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