Mid-terrace Loft Conversion

This project transformed the loft of a mid-terrace Southsea property into a generous master suite with ensuite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe. By carefully reworking the roof and internal layout, the conversion unlocked valuable space within the existing footprint, improving comfort for everyday living while adding long-term value to the home.

As the clients’ children grew older, the need for additional space within the house became increasingly clear. Rather than moving, the clients wanted to make better use of the existing property by converting the loft into a master bedroom with ensuite and dressing area.

A key concern was head height. At over six feet tall, the client was understandably wary of loft conversions feeling cramped. The brief was therefore to create a space that felt genuinely comfortable throughout — not just within the bedroom itself, but across the staircase, bathroom, and wardrobe — while remaining sympathetic to the character of the traditional Southsea property.

• Mid-terrace constraints, including shared party walls and limited working space
• Maximising usable floor area and head height without raising the existing roof ridge
• Ensuring comfortable head height for a tall occupant throughout the new level
• Careful stair integration within a tight existing landing and hallway
• Sympathetic design in keeping with the late-19th / early-20th century character of the area
• Maintaining full weather protection during extensive roof works
• Compliance with current fire safety and Building Regulation requirements
• Delivering a fully finished project through to complete handover

Works began with the careful removal of the existing roof structure. A temporary weatherproof covering was installed to protect the property during construction — a decision that proved its value when severe storms followed shortly afterwards.

The roof was reconstructed to maximise internal head height while retaining the existing ridge height in line with planning requirements. A full-width rear dormer was introduced, positioned as far back as possible to maximise usable floor space while remaining discreet within the terrace.

Internally, the new layout was formed to create a master bedroom, ensuite bathroom, and walk-in wardrobe, with particular attention given to circulation and head height. The staircase was a key element of the design, extended into the loft from a tight existing landing while maintaining compliant head heights throughout.

The clients were particularly pleased with the outcome, leading to the decision to upgrade the existing lower staircase to match, ensuring a consistent and considered feel across all levels of the house.

Given the age of the property, careful handling of the existing structure was required throughout. Roof junctions with neighbouring properties were fully addressed, with leadwork renewed where necessary to ensure long-term weatherproofing.

Fire safety upgrades were carried out to the existing floors below, including the installation of fire-rated doors, bringing the property fully in line with current regulations.

The project was carried through to completion, including all internal finishes, allowing the clients to move straight into the new space at handover.

The completed loft now provides a calm, well-proportioned master suite that feels like a natural extension of the home rather than an afterthought.

Comfortable head height, a well-designed staircase, and thoughtful detailing throughout have delivered a space that works effortlessly day to day. The clients gained the additional room they needed for a growing family, alongside a significant uplift in property value — all while preserving the character of their Southsea home.

Terraced house

Southsea, Hampshire

Loft conversion with rear dormer

Master suite, ensuite, walk-in wardrobe, upgraded staircase