Attic bedrooms have their own special charm, with their sloped eaves and lots of natural light. Converting your unused attic space into a bedroom is extremely useful. Whether you want to make a private master suite or just want to maximize the unused space in your home to accommodate your growing family, this is one of the ways to do it. Before you jump in and start transforming your unused attic space into a new bedroom take the time to learn about the conversion process. Learning the ins and outs will answer many common questions about using attics as bedrooms.
How to Convert an Attic to a Bedroom
Converting this unused space into a bedroom isn’t something you can just jump into. It is a transformation that requires some planning and often times some professional help.
Assess the Space
Before diving into the conversion process, it’s crucial to evaluate your attic’s potential. Head up into the attic with a measuring tape so you can check the ceiling height. You will also want to inspect the floor space and structural integrity. Most local building codes require ceilings to be at least 7 feet over at least 50% of the floor area. Before doing anything else ensure that your attic can accommodate this requirement.
Reinforce the Floor
Attics are often designed to bear less weight than typical living spaces. You may need to reinforce the floor joists to support the additional weight of furniture and foot traffic. Reinforcing the floor is done for safety reasons, as you don’t want the new bedroom to come crashing down through the ceiling. It’s best to hire a professional for this step of the attic conversion, as it ensures the job is done right.
Insulation and Climate Control
Proper insulation is essential in attic spaces as they are prone to temperature extremes. Consider installing high-quality insulation in the walls and roof to maintain a comfortable temperature year-round. You may also need to extend your home’s HVAC system to the attic or install a separate heating and cooling unit.
Add Windows and Ventilation
Two things that you must have for a comfortable bedroom are natural light and fresh air. Dormer windows or skylights can flood the space with light while providing ventilation. Proper airflow in the attic is important as it prevents moisture buildup and helps maintain air quality.
Install Proper Lighting
Given the unique architecture of attic spaces, lighting requires some planning. A combination of recessed lights, wall sconces, and strategically placed around the room will work best to illuminate the space. Floor or table lamps create a warm and inviting atmosphere while accommodating the sloped ceilings.
Create Access
If your attic doesn’t already have a proper staircase, you’ll need to install one. In some situations, you are going to have to reconfigure the area to create proper access. It might not sound like fun, but it’s necessary for safety and convenience.
How to Furnish an Attic Bedroom
Furnishing an attic bedroom presents unique challenges due to sloped ceilings and potentially awkward spaces. However, with a little creativity and smart design choices, you can convert your attic into a beautiful and functional room.
Choose the Right Bed
The bed is the centerpiece of any bedroom, and in an attic, its placement is crucial. To maximize the headspace available in the attic you want to p[lace your bed under the highest part of the ceiling. For spaces with very low ceilings, a low-profile bed or even a floor mattress can work well. In rooms with dormer windows, positioning the bed between two dormers can create a cozy nook.
Maximize Storage
Storage can be quite the challenge in attic bedrooms. To overcome the unique storage challenges of an attic bedroom you can turn to built-in solutions. Custom cabinets that fit under the eaves can provide ample storage without taking up floor space. Consider incorporating drawers into a platform bed or using trunks and chests that double as seating.
Use Multifunctional Furniture
In smaller attic bedrooms, multifunctional furniture makes all the difference.. A desk that doubles as a vanity, a chest of drawers that can also serve as a bedside table, or a daybed that functions as both seating and sleeping space can help maximize functionality without cluttering the room.
Embrace Sloped Ceilings
Rather than view sloped ceilings as a limitation, use them to your advantage. You can create a reading nook or work area under a sloped section or use the space for storage.. Hanging artwork or mirrors on the sloped sections can add visual interest and make the room feel larger.
Choose a Cohesive Color Scheme
A well-chosen color scheme can make an attic bedroom feel more spacious and cohesive. One of the best things about using light colors on walls and ceilings is it helps brighten up the space and makes it feel more open. Consider using a monochromatic color scheme or soft, neutral tones to create a serene atmosphere.
Can an Attic Be Considered a Bedroom?
Choose the Right Bed
The bed is the centerpiece of any bedroom, and in an attic, its placement is crucial. To maximize the headspace available in the attic you want to p[lace your bed under the highest part of the ceiling. For spaces with very low ceilings, a low-profile bed or even a floor mattress can work well. In rooms with dormer windows, positioning the bed between two dormers can create a cozy nook.
Minimum Size Requirements
Most building codes specify a minimum floor area for a room to be considered a bedroom. This is typically around 70 square feet, with a minimum width of 7 feet.
Ceiling Height
As mentioned earlier, the ceiling height is crucial when determining if your basement room is considered a bedroom. The standard requirement is that at least 50% of the ceiling must be a minimum of 7 feet high.
Means of Egress
Safety is paramount, and bedrooms must have at least two means of egress. This typically includes the door and a window large enough for emergency escape and rescue. Keep in mind that the window must meet specific size requirements and be easily accessible to be in compliance with local building regulations.
Heating and Ventilation
A bedroom must have adequate heating and ventilation. In some cases, this means access to the home’s heating system and a window that can open for ventilation. In others, it means upgrading the homes heating and cooling system to include the attic.
Electrical Requirements
Most building codes require at least two electrical outlets in a bedroom. These outlets should be on opposite walls.
If your attic conversion meets these criteria, it can generally be considered a legal bedroom. However, it’s essential to consult with local authorities and possibly a real estate professional to understand how your specific attic bedroom might be classified.
The question of whether an attic can be officially considered a bedroom often arises during conversions. The answer to this simple question depends on several factors and can vary based on local building codes. However, there are some general criteria that most jurisdictions use to define a legal bedroom.
Conclusion
Converting your unused attic into a bedroom gives you the chance to add an extra room without adding an addition. Whether you’re adding an extra bedroom for a growing family, creating a private master suite, or just maximizing your home’s potential, an attic bedroom can be both practical and charming. With a little bit of know-how and some help, you can turn your attic into a beautiful and functional bedroom that adds value to your home and enhances your living experience.
Remember, while DIY projects can be rewarding, many aspects of attic conversion require professional expertise. Always check with architects, builders, and the local building department to make sure your attic bedroom is safe, comfortable, and up to code. Your attic can become the cozy retreat you’ve always dreamt of with some careful planning and creative design.