ROOM TO RELAX

‘I really look forward to spending time in my room, which isn’t something as an adult I ever thought I’d say! It’s changed how we interact as a house, too. We appreciate the time we spend together much more because we have that separation of space – it feels a bit like a set of mini flats within a house. Despite it not being a huge project, it feels really spacious up here – if I’m feeling particularly energetic (which isn’t often), I’ll do yoga by the doors, and I’ve even had a masseuse give me a massage here! It really is like my little sanctuary.’

Lofttouted conversions are often

as a space-saving solution for families running out of room. But having your very own sanctuary in the roof for purely indulgent purposes is just as valid a reason to take on the work – after all, who doesn’t want a quiet space to slip away to when you need a bit of peace? Nicola Simpson did just that when she decided to extend upwards in the Victorian terraced house she lives in with friends. She’s quick to point out that the project was a luxury, not a necessity – but creating a selfcontained suite seems like a savvy move, giving Nicola and her friends more space for themselves and making the time they spend together more valuable. We spoke to her about how she created her dream bedroom suite.

Below Nicola integrated a small living area into her design, which doubles up as somewhere for exercise or home spa treatments.

Flooring, Wickes, treated with Woca softwood lye and colour wood oil 118. Lamps, Ikea. Mirror, The White Company