DRAB ATTIC BECOMES A FAB LOFT TO COMPLETE HOME’S OVERHAUL
After nearly 50 years in their Dow’s Lake-area home, the homeowners had renovated almost every square inch of the 1947 single, detached, frame-and-brick dwelling — with the exception of the attic, which was home to a collection of old books and squirrels that were chewing up the electrical wires.
So, they evicted the squirrels and hired Revision Built to create a third bedroom loft, complete with an ensuite and a fantastic view of the surrounding neighbourhood.
“From the start, Phil Coe took an immediate interest in the project, understood what we wanted, including — importantly — budget constraints. And working in close co-operation with our imaginative architect, John Riordan, realized the project to our full satisfaction,” said the homeowners.
Revision Built solved a few problems along the way and made changes that worked well, such as relocating a window in the gable to the opposite wall to allow more sunlight into the room. They also maximized insulation value by applying spray foam in the entire roof structure and installing triple glazed windows. By doing this, the heat from the main floor rises to the loft, leaving the owners comfortable year-round. They seldom need to use the ductless heating unit and, in the summer, with the skylights and windows open on all sides, there’s no need for the A/C.
The reno company also added some affordable luxury items, such as in-floor heating in the ensuite and LED tape lights on the collar ties to reflect light off the ceiling for an added “wow” factor. Architect John Riordan also came up with some great ideas for the space, such as using strategically-placed skylights to allow headroom at the top of the stairs.
“Phil’s uncompromising standards were evident throughout the project. His advice regarding materials and finishings were always well-informed and helpful,” said the homeowners. “In short, he’s a professional who knows his stuff: A quality amply demonstrated by his work on this project, which, we are happy to say, far exceeded our expectations.”
The team tended to each detail and transformed a drab, lifeless attic into a light-filled spacious loft, which is now used as a master bedroom. The homeowners are thrilled with the final result — they love their new space, the exercise that comes with using the stairs and the sense that they’re sleeping up high in the trees.