conversions basement

ADDING A BASEMENT CONVERSION IS A FANTASTIC WAY TO MAKE MORE SPACE AND INCREASE YOUR PROPERTY’S VALUE

An option if you’re looking for a way to create extra space without moving, not all basement conversions involve digging under the entire garden. Many Victorian and Edwardian houses have cellars with sturdy foundations that are ideal for conversion. Basement conversions are particularly good if you live in an urban area where land values are high and you don’t want to sacrifice part of your garden.

Since integrating ventilation and natural light is a lot trickier when you’re going underground – and more expensive – clever design and careful planning are essential.

PLAN THE SPACE

Create a design brief, summing up what you intend to use the space for and the overall aesthetic you’d like. ‘Without careful planning, it would be easy to end up with a large, poorly-lit zone that has limited uses,’ says Richard Gill, an associate at Paul Archer Design.

The problem with any subterranean space is always going to be light. ‘When converting, our main aim is to find clever ways to bring light through to the lower levels,’ says architect Alan Crawford of The Crawford Partnership. ‘This can be done by incorporating a light well to create a visual connection to the world above. Even a small skylight that allows a glimpse of blue sky can make all the difference.

‘Whether you are converting a cellar below the house or digging out part of the front or back garden to create the new basement, consider excavating an extra 200-300mm to increase the floor-to-ceiling height of the new space,’ advises Alan. ‘Maintaining the flow like this won’t push up the cost of the project dramatically, but it will instantly make the room you create feel less claustrophobic. Especially when planned in combination with a light well or skylight.’ CONSIDER AN ARCHITECT

While many basement construction firms offer their own in-house design services, employing a recommended designer

“clever design and essential” careful planning are

could make the difference between a merely efficient basement and a spectacular one. ‘Engaging an architect shifts the focus to the creation of beautiful spaces,’ says Richard.

‘They will be able to address issues such as how to connect the basement

with the main house and how to maximise natural light, while making the space aesthetically pleasing, too.’ THE PLANNING PROCESS

It’s wise to get your neighbours on side from the outset. ‘Unlike regular extensions, basement projects can cause massive issues with neighbours,’ says William Mcguinness, director at UV Architects. ‘This will be largely based on stories they might have heard about developments going wrong.’

At one time, it was possible to create a basement extension under Permitted Development. These days, however, the chances of that are highly unlikely. ‘A lot of authorities have clamped down,’ says William. ‘In some London boroughs, any subterranean development automatically requires formal consent. Or if you introduce a light well, for instance, that will necessitate planning permission because of the alteration to the exterior.’

If your house is on a flood plain or at risk of flooding, it’s likely you’ll be refused planning permission. You’ll have to get Building Regulations Approval, and if your home is listed, you will also need Listed Building Consent. For more information on exactly what is required, visit planningportal.gov.uk.

ADD A LIGHT WELL (OR TWO) Bringing in daylight is key to creating a beautiful space. Here two light wells connect the basement room with the relaxing green of the garden. MAKE THE MOST OF A STAIRCASE Glass panels (instead of a solid barrier) at the side of the stairs allow even more daylight through than the staircase access would on its own.

INCORPORATE AN OUTSIDE SPACE This unusual, elegant winter garden design allows light in via glass walls, while adding a view of greenery that basement spaces can often miss out on.

CREATE FLEXIBLE LIVING SPACE Combine work and play, with a home office below the skylight for extra inspiration. This large light also allows daylight further into the space when it’s time for fun and games.