What's in your loft right now? Holiday decorations are a mainstay of lofts, along with toys, and probably some junk you've been meaning to get rid of. Lofts don't have to be wasted spaces.
A loft conversion can turn that space into a useful room.
Dave Maratos from Pretoria Builders shares loft conversion ideas you can try.
1. Sitting area
You can use your loft to create a fantastic sitting area. Being at the top of the house means the loft is usually a quiet spot.
Make the most of this by turning it into a welcoming, quiet sitting area where you can relax and chat with friends or family, or just enjoy some alone time.
Deck out your loft conversion in soft, muted colours and add plenty of comfortable seating, throws and floor cushions for a relaxed sitting area.
2. Spare bedroom
If your home doesn't have a spare bedroom for guests, why not build one in the loft? A loft conversion will create a light, airy space that's perfect for your guests to relax in.
It will also give a bit of privacy, so both you and your guests can enjoy each other's company while still having space when you need it.
From a clean, modern look to sweet, traditional flowers and embroidery, the choice of decorating ideas for a loft bedroom is limited only by your imagination.
3. Study area
A loft makes for a fun study area for kids and teens. Your kids will have their own space for studying and schoolwork, set aside from the distractions of a busy house.
Add a desk and chair, and plenty of shelf room for books. A cupboard for stationery supplies and good lighting provide great finishing touches.
Let your kids have a say over how to decorate their new study area. It will feel like theirs and encourage them to use it.
4. Games room
Turn your loft into a games room to get the maximum fun out of the space. Even a small loft will easily fit a table and chairs for card or board games, and a dart board.
Larger spaces can be used for everything, from a table tennis set to a classic arcade game.
Add some bold, bright colours or fun posters to bring your games room to life.
5. Chill out zone
The loft is usually a quiet space. Make the most of that by creating your own chill out zone.
Try adding yoga mats and soft rugs, with neutral colours and some potted plants for the ultimate zen zone.
Take your chill out zone a step further with a water feature, a cooler with mineral water, or even a shelf of books on mind, body and spirit health.
6. Home office
Whether you work from home or you want to keep the daily family paperwork in good order, a loft makes a great home office. You can retreat to the top of the house and get some much needed peace to work on your latest project, or even run a business from home.
Furnish your home office with ergonomic office furniture, and don't forget to add a soft seat for times when you just need a break. Why not also add a tea-making corner so you can work uninterrupted for longer?
7. Reading nook
If you love reading, you can use your loft space to create a relaxing and cosy reading nook. This is a great idea for small lofts too as all you need is a comfy chair, some good lighting, and space for books.
If your loft is on the larger side, you can add more seating and shelving, plus a table for your own personal library.
8. Cosy bathroom
A bathroom at the top of the house might seem unusual but, with a bit of plumbing, you can turn your loft into a beautiful bathroom sanctuary. You'll feel like you're getting away from the world when you climb the stairs and relax into a hot tub after a long day.
Aim for luxury with a beautiful freestanding bath, rich colours and plenty of space for candles and flowers, and you'll soon forget your troubles.
Your loft doesn't have to be wasted space, or used just for storage. With a loft conversion you can enjoy your home even more as you add a room you love to your house.