I grew up sharing a pass-through room, so privacy was always scarce. When the attic became available, I decided to renovate it myself. The space started as a storage area with visible roof beams, no insulation, and damaged flooring. Halfway through my father, who initially planned to help, injured his leg, so the project became a solo effort informed by his remote advice.
Planning and Demolition
I began by clearing the space, mapping existing electrical runs, and sketching the new layout. The plan broke the renovation into phases—insulation, utilities, surfaces, and furniture—so I could focus on one discipline at a time.
Envelope and Insulation
Insulating the roof was the first major task. I installed batts between rafters, added a vapour barrier, and ensured proper ventilation to avoid moisture issues. Drywall followed, turning the open rafters into finished walls and creating a clean canvas for the rest of the work.
Electrical and Lighting
Running new circuits alone required careful preparation. I installed outlets, ceiling fixtures, and switch loops while adhering to safety guidelines. Everything was tested with a multimeter before connecting to the main panel.
Flooring and Windows
The subfloor had to be repaired before laying new planks. I replaced damaged boards, levelled the surface, and installed laminate flooring. To brighten the space I upgraded the existing roof window and added a second one opposite it.
Custom Furniture
The centrepiece is a 2.4 metre extendable bed designed for the odd room dimensions. Built-in storage and modular components make it adaptable while leaving enough floor area for study and relaxation. The project also produced shelving and a compact wardrobe tailored to the sloped ceiling.
Lessons Learned
- Breaking large projects into disciplined, sequential stages keeps momentum high.
- Accurate measurements and documentation prevent costly rework—especially when you cannot rely on an extra set of hands.
- Resourcefulness matters: reusing materials and adapting tools helped maintain the budget.