How to Turn the Unused Space in the Attic into Beautiful Living Space

That unused space in your attic can become a beautiful addition of living space to your home with a little time, work, and know-how.

The Preliminaries

The first thing you need to do is decide what you want to do with the attic space. The options include things such as rental space, an art studio, a craft/sewing room, a dance studio, a home gym, a meditation room, a study/den, a mini observatory, a game room, a home office, and another bedroom/a guest room.

As part of the decision process you will need to explore your attic. Take notes of what work is already done in the space such as electrical wiring, flooring, insulation and sheetrock, light fixtures, and ceiling panels. How many electrical outlets and switches are already installed, and where are they located? Check to ensure they each work. Check the lighting and windows. You want to ensure you have adequate lighting in the right places.

Remember to check for plumbing, heating, cooling, and ventilation. Heat rises, so in the summer your attic may become sweltering hot. Finally, check carefully for any sign of pests like mice/rats, spiders, termites, and bees/wasps; mold; asbestos; wood rot; and similar problems. You will want to resolve all of those issues before you begin renovation.

Once you have decided what you want to use the attic space for, you will need to check into local laws and ordinances regarding permits, licenses, fees, and regulations regarding your project, especially if it involves construction, renting the space, or running a business from home.

The Budget

When determining your project budget, get free information from a local realtor regarding property values in your neighborhood. For re-sell purposes, you do not want your project to put the value of your home above that of neighboring homes. You want to stay within the same price range as the results of the realtor's findings.