Roofs are underestimated as far as home design is concerned. Not only does it characterise a building but also affects its practicality, space and value in general. However, the mansard style of roofing has been getting the spotlight with the traditional European-style roof being thought about as a fashionable and practical roof-style. This is one architectural solution that homeowners are turning to in search of balance between the two things: aesthetics and efficiency, especially when renovating and extending structures. In this blog, we discuss what distinguishes the mansard roof, why people find it attractive even today, and the considerations to consider when installing one.
Mansard Roofs: A Stylish and Practical Roofing Option
The mansard roof is notable because of its special, two slope, design. The lower slope exists as a vertical / steep slope, whilst the upper slope is essentially a flat slope giving a building that provides maximum internal space within the roofline. This type of design does not only lie in the aspect of beauty but it changes an attic into a complete living unit most often converted into an extra bedroom, study, or a lounge. A mansard loft conversion architecture is suitable to city dwellers in London and other urban environments where a square footage can be a hassle.
Other than functionality, the mansard roof is very classy. A classic palette enhances the sleek dimensions and fits in with both older and contemporary structures. Mansard roofs have become a hallmark in most heritage neighbourhoods as a way of providing harmony between traditional aesthetics and the needs of the modern world.
What Is a Mansard Roof and Where Did It Originate?
The mansard derives its origin to 17th century France and is strongly linked to the architect Francois Mansart whom it is named after. It was this style that was popularised in grand townhouses in Paris and palaces in Paris by Mansart. The style soon gained popularity throughout Europe and came to be the sign of travel and functionality.
Mansard roofs are also typical in the UK during the Georgian and the Victorian era especially in London and other towns. They were commonly selected in the architectural sense as a clever way to circumnavigate harsh height restrictions in order to create an additional story on homes without the place looking unnaturally tall. Nowadays, the mansard roof is used on the same principle it had long ago: the mansard is another thoughtful solution to increase the living area without violating proportion and beauty.
Why Choose a Mansard Roof for Your Home Renovation or Extension?
A mansard roof has a number of advantages to homeowners undertaking a renovation or expansion. The advantages of the design are the most evident in the headroom and utilisation of floor area, as they are superior to that of conventional pitched roofs. Rather than the awkward sloping ceilings, the steep lower slope of the mansard roof produces nearly vertical walls giving the space much more flexibility.
Windows, dormers or even Juliet balconies can be put in to further increase natural illumination and natural ventilation. This does not only make the new space functional but also comfortable and satisfying the eye. In the case of growing families this may allow a spare bedroom or home-office without a subsequent extension.
The other major factor to consider is the mansard roof is its potential of adding value in the long run to the property. In the regions where the gross size determines the value of a property, such a transformation as converting a loft into a large room may actually add substantial value to a given house. The architectural features of the mansard roofs are also a selling point since many individuals will be attracted to the distinctiveness of your house when compared to others on offer.
Planning and Design Considerations for Mansard Roof Conversions
It is important to plan sufficiently well so that the whole undertaking does not run into problems. There are some cases in the UK when installing or converting mansard roof needs permission of planning authority, especially to buildings in conservation areas or on listed buildings. The development should meet the detailed requirements of the local councils so the services of the experienced architects and planners should be sought at the initial stages of the process because it might pertain to the architectural character of the streets.
The designing stage is also key to be followed selecting materials that contrast with the structure, but do not seem out of place will help the mansard roof integrate into the rest of the property. The natural slate tiles are classic, but it is also possible to find modern offers despite the high quality of the finish. The position of windows should be carefully thought out to make the most of the daylight environment, and maintain privacy.
Mansard roofs have long been adopted by architects as a measure balancing the need to be pragmatic and the restrictions that planners place in London and other over-populated cities. A mansard designed efficiently could convert a not so great design into a nice looking structure.