From the team behind Hampstead Renovations · Est. 2009 · Learn more
Case StudySwiss Cottage, NW3January 2025

Loft Conversion, Swiss Cottage

A rear dormer loft conversion on a large Edwardian terraced house in Swiss Cottage, creating a double bedroom with en-suite shower room. Camden LBC planning permission was obtained under the Article 4 Direction that applies across the NW3 area and the project was completed in 12 weeks.

Project Type

Dormer Loft Conversion

Duration

12 weeks

Project Value

£65,000

The Challenge

The Edwardian terrace was within the Swiss Cottage Conservation Area — part of the Article 4 Direction zone covering NW3. The existing roof had been recovered at some point in the 1970s with concrete interlocking tiles that were not in keeping with the original character of the Edwardian terrace. Camden's conservation officer required that the dormer be built alongside a reroof of the rear elevation using traditional slate.

Our Solution

We included the reroofing of the rear elevation with Welsh slate as part of the project scope — at a modest additional cost that Camden required but which also significantly improved the property's appearance. The dormer was designed in matching slate with a lead flat to the dormer top. The planning was approved in 8 weeks with the conservation officer specifically noting the improvement to the rear elevation.

Results

  • Camden planning approval in 8 weeks — conservation officer positive response
  • Rear roof reclad in Welsh slate — improvement to conservation area character
  • Dormer in matching Welsh slate with lead flat top
  • 24m² of bedroom space created
  • Double bedroom with fitted wardrobes
  • En-suite shower room with heated towel rail
  • Estimated property value uplift: £115,000

Key Features

  • Camden Article 4 Direction planning consent
  • Rear reroof in Welsh slate — conservation area improvement
  • Matching slate dormer with lead flat
  • Double bedroom with bespoke fitted wardrobes
  • En-suite with thermostatic shower
  • Velux Conservation rooflights to rear pitch

Specification

ItemSpecification
Roof slatesWelsh Cwt-y-Bugail Blue Grey slate, 500×250mm, double-lapped, copper nails
Dormer flatCode 4 lead, traditional bossed, to dormer top and cheeks
RooflightsVelux Conservation GGL 3073 triple-glazed, two units, centre-pivot
En-suiteHansgrohe Crometta thermostatic shower, Duravit DuraStyle WC, Porcelanosa Caliza tile
Fitted wardrobesBespoke painted MDF Shaker-fronted, full-height, LED interior lighting, soft-close
StaircaseOak treads on softwood carriage, painted MDF balustrade with chrome newel cap

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