Roof-space appraisal
We assess headroom, ridge height, stair position, roof structure and likely usable floor area.
Residential architecture service
Loft Conversion Architects in Middlesbrough and Teesside
Hepburn Architects designs loft conversions for homeowners in Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees, Yarm, Wynyard, Redcar and the wider Teesside area. From our North East studio, we provide roof-space feasibility, layout design, planning support and Building Regulations drawings. Headroom, stairs, structure and fire safety are considered together before the design is fixed.
Suitable for
Projects we can support.
- Rear dormer conversions
- Hip-to-gable conversions
- Rooflight conversions
- Mansard proposals
- Loft bedrooms and home offices
Our process
A structured route through the project.
Planning route
We confirm whether permitted development, a Lawful Development Certificate or planning permission is appropriate.
Layout and form
The stair, dormer, roof form and internal arrangement are developed together.
Technical coordination
Fire precautions, insulation, structure, ventilation and drainage are incorporated into the technical package.
Typical deliverables
What the appointment may include.
The final scope is confirmed in a written fee proposal tailored to the property and approval route.
Existing and proposed roof plans
Floor plans and sections
Dormer elevations
Volume calculations where needed
Building Regulations package
Fire-safety coordination
RIBA-aligned scope
Clear stages and responsibilities.
The appointment is aligned to the RIBA Plan of Work stages that are proportionate to a residential project.
Stage 0–1: roof-space feasibility
Stage 2: stair and layout options
Stage 3: planning or lawful-development submission
Stage 4: fire, structure and technical design
Indicative timescales.
- Initial appraisal and survey: usually 1–2 weeks
- Design and approval drawings: usually 3–4 weeks
- Lawful Development Certificate: statutory target commonly 8 weeks
- Technical design: usually 3–4 weeks
Proportionate fixed scopes.
Fees depend on roof complexity, the planning route, whether a measured survey is needed and whether technical design is included. A fixed proposal follows review of the existing roof and brief.
Use the fee calculatorSeparate appointments and costs.
- Structural engineer design
- Party Wall matters
- Building Control and planning fees
- Roof surveys or asbestos surveys
- Site supervision unless separately agreed
Independent client feedback
Clear advice and dependable communication.
Great service! David was on time with the plans, and his advice has been invaluable throughout the process.Verified homeownerView on MyBuilder
David was a pleasure to deal with throughout. He was easy to talk to and nothing was too much.Verified homeownerView on Checkatrade
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this service.
Do you design loft conversions across Teesside?
Yes. Hepburn Architects works from Acklam Hall in Middlesbrough, supporting homeowners across Teesside, including Stockton-on-Tees, Yarm, Wynyard and Redcar. The property address and proposed roof alterations determine the local planning checks needed.
Can I appoint Hepburn Architects for survey, planning and Building Regulations?
Yes. These services can be appointed in stages: measured survey and roof-space appraisal, design and planning or lawful-development drawings, then a Building Regulations package. Structural engineering and other specialist appointments are identified separately in the fee proposal.
How much roof volume is permitted?
The standard limits are generally 40m³ for terraced houses and 50m³ for detached and semi-detached houses, subject to the detailed conditions.
Can a front dormer be permitted development?
Usually not on the principal elevation facing a highway. Front dormers commonly require planning permission.
Will I need a protected stair?
Many loft conversions require a compliant protected escape route. The solution depends on the height, layout and Building Regulations strategy.
Is a Lawful Development Certificate worthwhile?
It can provide formal evidence that a proposed loft conversion is lawful, which can be useful for future sales, lenders and contractors.
Discuss your project
Speak directly with a residential architect.
Call now or book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss the property, approval route and likely next steps.