VELUX Design Guide Outlines Strategies for Converting Attics into Habitable Spaces
On October 15, 2026, Kiana Buchberger published an article in the Spanish edition of ArchDaily, focusing on transforming seldom-used attic spaces into practical rooms such as offices and bedrooms. Featured in the piece is architect Tina Hočevar, alongside visuals provided by VELUX Group. The VELUX Design Guide underscores the critical aspects of roof shape, natural light, ventilation, and indoor climate. Converting attics in existing structures necessitates tackling insulation, ventilation, and structural challenges. A study by VELUX examined 669,000 homes in England from 2020 to 2024, revealing that approximately 530,000 could support attic conversions, with steeper roofs increasing feasibility. The guide also stresses the importance of window positioning for light and views, complying with European standard EN 17037 for brightness levels. The article was translated by AI.
Key facts
- The article was published on October 15, 2026, written by Kiana Buchberger for ArchDaily's Spanish edition
- Architect Tina Hočevar is credited, with images courtesy of VELUX Group
- The VELUX Design Guide addresses roof geometry, daylight, ventilation, views, and indoor climate for spaces under roofs
- An analysis of approximately 669,000 homes built in England between 2020 and 2024 estimated around 530,000 (nearly 80 percent) could viably host attic rooms meeting minimum area standards
- The evaluation considered roof pitch, eaves, stairs, and a minimum area standard of 6.51 m²
- The VELUX Room to Grow study estimates an average usable floor area gain of around 31 percent in detached single-family homes
- European standard EN 17037 defines target daylight illuminance levels of 300, 500, and 750 lux
- The guide recommends window lower edges approximately 95 to 110 centimeters above floor level for seated views encompassing sky, horizon, and ground
Entities
Artists
- Tina Hočevar
- Kiana Buchberger
- Björn Martenson
- Patricia Weisskirchner
- David Schreyer
Institutions
- VELUX Group
- ArchDaily
- Amunt Architects
- strobl architektur
- he und du ZT KG
Locations
- England
- United Kingdom