Highfield Close, Caerleon
Rear dormer conversion creating three bedrooms, with structural alterations and a reworked upstairs layout.
This rear dormer conversion in Caerleon reworked an upper floor already used as living space. The aim was to create three bedrooms and relocate the bathroom to the front, where the house already had a dormer.
The original plans proposed two bedrooms and a small bathroom within the new dormer. After discussing the layout with the customer, we explored using that space for three bedrooms instead, freeing up an existing front bedroom to become a larger family bathroom.
An existing window conflicted with the proposed steelwork. Working with the structural engineer, we developed a revised solution using a steel goalpost, rebuilt supporting brickwork and a new structural stud wall. The window was reduced in size, with shelving incorporated into the altered opening.
We removed a chimney, strengthened the floors and rebuilt and repointed areas of existing brickwork. The new dormer received an insulated EPDM warm roof, windows, fascia, soffit and guttering. Roof tiles were renewed, the overhanging gable soffit rebuilt and the existing front dormer’s fascia and soffit updated to bring the exterior together.
Inside, new insulation and plasterboard formed the rooms, while an oak and glass balustrade replaced the landing’s half-height stud wall. Bespoke beds helped make use of the available space, and a loft hatch retained access to storage. Our electrical subcontractor rewired the upstairs; the customer arranged plumbing, tiling, plastering, cladding and flooring through his own contacts.
The finished rear dormer complements the existing front dormer and provides three well sized bedrooms. Reworking the upstairs layout also released a larger room for the customer’s bathroom fitter to create a family bathroom, while retaining useful storage.