Project Type
Mansard Loft Conversion
Duration
14 weeks
Project Value
£92,000
The Challenge
The property sits within Belsize Conservation Area, subject to Article 4 Direction, meaning that standard Permitted Development loft conversion rules did not apply. The previous planning application by another contractor had been refused due to insufficient attention to the streetscape impact. The structural complexity of the existing Victorian roof, which featured a series of original timber trusses, required careful engineering to preserve while creating the new space.
Our Solution
We appointed a planning consultant with extensive experience in Camden Conservation Area applications and a structural engineer who specialised in Victorian residential properties. The mansard design was drawn to Camden's design guidance — lead cladding to the mansard walls, flush Velux rooflights on the rear pitch, and zinc-clad dormers set back from the front parapet. Planning was approved at committee in 7 weeks. The structural engineer designed a steel frame that distributed loads without removing the original Victorian trusses.
Results
- ✓Planning permission approved at Camden Planning Committee in 7 weeks
- ✓38m² of new liveable space added at principal bedroom level
- ✓Master bedroom with full walk-in wardrobe fitted in bespoke joinery
- ✓En-suite bathroom with natural stone and underfloor heating
- ✓Estimated property value increase: £180,000
- ✓All work completed within agreed 14-week programme
- ✓Building Regulations Completion Certificate issued
Key Features
- ✓Camden Conservation Area planning approval
- ✓Mansard construction with lead-clad walls
- ✓Original Victorian trusses preserved
- ✓Bespoke fitted joinery throughout
- ✓Porcelain tile en-suite with underfloor heating
- ✓Triple-glazed rear dormer windows
Specification
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Roof structure | New steel beam frame with original Victorian trusses retained and sistered |
| Mansard cladding | Code 4 lead — traditional method matching conservation area character |
| Dormer windows | Triple-glazed timber units, RAL 9005 external finish |
| En-suite tiles | Porcelain large-format stone-effect, 600×1200mm, underfloor heating below |
| Fitted wardrobes | Bespoke painted MDF, Shaker profile, soft-close fittings |
| Staircase | Oak treads with painted balustrading, matching existing property staircase |
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