Having learned that loft conversions are one of the biggest ways to boost a home’s value, it’s easy to see why the trend for extending upwards has not slowed in recent years.
According to a survey conducted by the Nationwide Building Society in 2014, a person can add around 21% to the value of their home by simply renovating their loft.
If you’ve done the sums and decided a loft conversion makes financial sense for your home, it’s time to start planning! You may be stuck for decorating ideas. Luckily, we’ve put together a guide to 2017’s biggest trends – all selected because they lend themselves perfectly to loft conversions. Ideal for snuggly second living rooms, cosy new bedrooms or swanky office spaces.
1) Hygge / Cosy
Hygge has exploded in popularity over the last two years. If you missed the memo, “Hygge” is a Danish word that roughly translates to “cosiness”.
“In essence, hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Friends and family – that’s hygge too.” – VisitDenmark.co.uk
If you’re using your loft conversion to create a quiet little hideaway, consider adding a few “Hygge” touches to the room. Think thick knitted blankets, fairy lights and candles.
Get the look:
- Cable knit throw – John Lewis
- Jo Malone Candle – John Lewis
- House Doctor String Fairy Lights – Trouva
2) Scandi modern
Although the Scandinavian design movement emerged in the 1950s, a modern version has seen a resurgence in recent years. Simplicity, minimalism and functionality characterise Scandi design. Choose whitewashed walls, a natural wood floor and large windows to let in extra light. Remember that less is more when choosing accessories. Give Scandi style a modern update for 2017 by sticking to a cool grey and plum purple colour scheme:
Get the look:
3) Beautifully Bohemian
Bohemian rooms look as if the owner has curated furniture and furnishings over a long period of time while travelling the world and visiting far-flung locales. Add a subtle boho vibe to your loft conversion by filling the room with handcrafted furniture and artisanal-made accessories. Use bold colours to offset otherwise plain walls. Don’t be afraid to mix and match jewel tones. Colourful lanterns and fairy lights will give the space a cosy, glowing atmosphere at nighttime. Add plenty of greenery to the room too – a bohemian-style room can never have enough plants.
Get the look:
4) Industrial chic
Industrial chic is another style of decorating that gets more popular by the day! Think urban design mixed with raw, stripped back materials. The style lends itself perfectly to newly converted lofts and works particularly well for office spaces.
Your loft conversion should feature brick walls, exposed beams, plenty of wood and lots of stainless steel accessories. Think industrial lighting, filament bulbs and wire mesh shelving units.
Get the look: