|
With space in London at a premium, basement conversions are becoming an increasingly popular way to get additional space without moving. But the potential disruption building work poses to family life often puts people off from getting started. It may be helpful to know that with the right project management you can easily remain in your home while the works are completed.
Whether it’s more living space, a bigger kitchen, a games room or even a swimming pool the underground of London is a hive of activity. Families who have run out of space and do not have the funds to upscale, or those looking to add value to their home while adding comfort and lifestyle are all burrowing und
Yet all ask a similar question: “How can we live in our house whilst it’s being converted?”
Short Term Disruption = Long Term Gain
Any conversion – especially to a home residence – will impact normal everyday proceedings. Yet with a little simple forethought along with advice from professionals, it is possible to achieve the conversion you want without going through the rigmarole of moving out.
Munna Patel, a local GP based in Chiswick underwent a loft conversion, house extension and refurbishment and employed ‘Open Space’, a South West London based specialist in home conversions.
“Yes it was inconvenient for a few weeks but it was manageable and now we have a beautiful home with so much more space to enjoy.” Munna Patel GP, Chiswick, London
How was this achieved? A look into how modern conversions are built in London provides the answers.
Basements and lofts are often the least disruptive. Whilst dust and noise are to be expected, the house remains inhabitable with little or no interruption to day-to-day services. This is achieved by creating external access where possible for all materials and crew via a well or scaffolding in the case of a loft. Household living continues as normal until the final stages when the internal staircase is fitted.
“House extensions do present disruption in the short-term but any good builder should install temporary services like hobs for cooking, washing machines and sinks so life can continue within the home. Meticulous planning and weather proofing the site are essential to ensure the work is completed with minimal disruption and to deadline.” Eric Jusz Director Open Space Ltd.
While good builders would recommend their clients are close by for the majority of the project, it is becoming increasingly popular to take the family away for a short time during the most disruptive works. With prior planning, the major structural works can coincide with your annual ski trip or summer break allowing you to be back in time for decisions to be taken on fittings and finish.
But what if you’re worried that the project isn’t being handled effectively whilst you’re gone?
Communication
A particular strength of Open Space Ltd is that the director is on site every day keeping communication open between yourself and the build team. And before you go, you set the terms of how and when you would like to be contacted.
“Video calling from mobile device allows our clients to see the project taking shape adding that extra level of reassurance. Others have preferred daily email updates so they can check in on the day’s works at a time convenient for them,” Eric says.
There are always solutions
The good news for anyone thinking of undertaking a conversion or renovation to their property is that there are a multitude of options available to minimise disruption to your life. Planning is the key focus in all cases making it possible to live whilst a conversion is taking place.
Open Space Ltd
020 8834 7092
A recent basement conversion project of Open Space Ltd in Hammersmith.
Advertisement
June 18, 2013