Mansard Loft Conversion, Hampstead

The Challenge

Hampstead's Article 4 Direction removes standard Permitted Development rights for loft works, and the property sat on a highly visible terrace in the conservation area where any roofline alteration required full Camden LBC committee approval. An adjoining party wall dispute with the neighbouring property had to be resolved before structural works could commence, as the steel beam would bear on the shared party wall.

Our Solution

We engaged a specialist Camden conservation area architect who prepared design drawings aligned with Camden's Supplementary Planning Document for loft conversions. A Party Wall Surveyor was appointed, an award agreed with the neighbour, and the structural design amended to minimise bearing loads on the party wall. Planning was approved at officer level, avoiding committee, in 8 weeks.

Results

• ✓Camden planning approval secured at officer level in 8 weeks
• ✓Party wall award agreed without dispute — neighbourly relations maintained
• ✓36m² of new living space created at loft level
• ✓Principal bedroom suite with fitted dressing room and en-suite
• ✓Juliet balcony to rear elevation with garden views
• ✓Estimated property value uplift: £165,000
• ✓Building Regulations sign-off with air tightness test passed

Key Features

• ✓Full Camden conservation area planning permission
• ✓Lead-clad mansard walls matching conservation area character
• ✓Party wall award managed end-to-end
• ✓Velux Conservation rooflights to rear pitch
• ✓Bespoke fitted dressing room in painted hardwood
• ✓Travertine en-suite with heated floor

Specification