Transforming a Family Home in Stockport: A Sensitive Loft Conversion
Transforming a Family Home in Stockport: A Sensitive Loft Conversion
At Dempsey + Gannon Architects, we recently had the pleasure of working on a transformative project for a beautiful detached family home nestled in a leafy suburb of Stockport. Our clients, a growing family, had fallen in love with this charming house for its ideal location and stunning architectural features. However, as their family expanded, so too did their need for additional space to accommodate both their immediate family and visiting guests.
Understanding Client Needs
From the outset, our engagement with the clients was rooted in understanding their vision and needs. The family adored the original character of their home and wanted to ensure that any additions would enhance rather than overshadow its existing charm. Through collaborative discussions, we crafted a brief that focused on a loft conversion. This conversion was envisioned to add a new habitable floor to the home, thereby creating additional living space in an area that was previously underutilized.
Designing with Sensitivity
The core of our design solution involved the addition of three dormers along the length of the roof at the rear of the house. This strategic placement not only maximized the interior space but also maintained the home's aesthetic harmony from the street view. To further optimize the living space under the new sloped areas, we subtly increased the height of the eaves and ridge of the roof. This adjustment was crucial in carving out comfortable headroom within the new upper floor.
Harmonious Material Palette
In selecting materials for this project, our focus was on complementing the existing structure while introducing elements that speak a modern architectural language. The material palette included standing seam zinc, clay roof tiles, and aluminium windows, all chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. These materials were unified in color and tone, allowing the roof and dormers to present a cohesive architectural expression that blends seamlessly with the original structure.
Our Role as Contract Administrator
As contract administrators for this project, Dempsey + Gannon played a crucial role in ensuring the project was executed according to plan, within budget, and to the highest standards. Our responsibilities included overseeing the contractual relationships, managing any arising issues, and maintaining communication between all parties involved. This role is vital in any construction project, as it ensures that the vision of the client is realized meticulously and that the project adheres to all agreed specifications and regulatory requirements.