The instances of homeowners installing a so called “granny annexe” has increased exponentially over the last few years and one of the best ways to facilitate such an undertaking is to take advantage of unused space in the loft. A loft conversion will not only add significantly to the value of your home, it will allow you to show your parent(s) just how much you appreciate what they’ve done for you over the years. There is much to be said for allowing your parents to maintain their independence, as opposed to a care home scenario, and thousands of homeowners each year capitalise on the space that hitherto has been unused in their lofts and turn it into a welcoming and comfortable space in which to house their relatives. Carrying out loft conversions is something which should be done with the assistance of specialists in the field as they will ensure that you make the most of the space that you have and end up with the finished product that you were dreaming of.  

Once a loft conversion has been successfully transformed into a “granny annexe”, it can be a big transition learning to live with one’s parents again, especially if you have a family of your own. It is important to give your parent(s) their own space and independence and this is why a loft conversion is such an ideal solution to the issue of having your parents living with you because it offers the sort of space that they will require and a level of independence that will not impact on your current living arrangements. When carrying out a loft conversion in preparation for your parents coming to live with you, it is prudent to converse with your parents to see if there are any particular features that they want in the space and relay this to those carrying out the conversion.  

Obviously, it is very rewarding to be able to offer your parents independence in retirement and old age but it is a decision which, of course, shouldn’t be made lightly. Once loft conversions have been completed, it is a good idea to lay out a set of ground rules that will help the new living arrangements pass off without a hitch. Taking advantage of unused space with loft conversions has many benefits so far as living with parents are concerned that it really should really be one of the first considerations when contemplating such an arrangement. After completing a loft conversion as a “granny annexe” it makes sense to consider some of the following points: 

• Discussions – Speaking to your parents about living with you is crucial because they will be used to living on their own and having the degree of independence which comes with this. This is why most homeowners who choose to have their parents live with them will opt for loft conversions and granny annexes. 

• Privacy – Loft conversions really do make sense when it comes to allowing the parents to stay with you because it will facilitate the sort of privacy boundaries that you and your parents will both be looking for. 

• Patience– Obviously, coming to terms with living under the same roof as your parents again won’t be something that is achieved overnight. With a little patience and understanding, however, it won’t be long before you are all comfortable with the new living arrangements. 

• Compromise– Having your parents move into a loft conversion will clearly need a bit of give and take on both fronts and it is imperative to compromise wherever possible in order to create a pleasant living environment for both your parents and your own family.

Why Loft Conversions Make Sense as a Granny Annexe 

There are a number of ways of moving your parents into your home which can be considered but it is invariably loft conversions that make the most practical and economical sense. With this in mind, it is a good idea to speak to loft conversion professionals about the steps which need to be undertaken to convert your loft space into a functional and welcoming environment for your parents to live. Just some of the advantages of loft conversions both as a granny annexe and in general include: 

• Value – Loft conversions have consistently shown themselves as being one of the top ways of adding value to a home. So, not only will you get the sense of satisfaction that comes from providing your parents independence, you will also be adding to the value of your home in the long term by creating a functional space out of your loft. 

• Simplicity – Converting a loft space into a functional granny annexe is a fairly straightforward process when taking advantage of the skills of loft conversion professionals, who will be well versed in creating spaces to bespoke specifications.