Loft extension advice please

[AlanG]

Been thinking of turning my loft into a mancave for many a moons now but my beams are in such a way that i've never seen before. Is it possible to do it by moving the beams (one at a time obviously lol). They come down to the centre of the cottage and there are side supports too. I don't think i need planning permission here in Scotland as it is not going to be used as a bedroom, but i'll obviously check.

Any advice as how to design the new beams layout? Can it be done?

[yak face]

Hard to see from the photo alan but it looks like theyre mono trusses , which means that you cant cut anything out without compromising the integrity of the roof . Even if its rafters , hip and purlin construction the extra bracing has been put there for a reason , builders dont usually like to use more materials than absolutely necessary ! Unfortunately id recommend leaving it as just stash storage space and maybe think about a shed or model room downstairs , hope this helps , cheers tony

[Guest]

I agree 100% with Tony.

[Guest]

In addition to that, perhaps look into getting a conservatory to work in? Since we built ours I hardly model anywhere else. The light is fantastic.
Although it gets warm in the summer, but rising early overcomes that issue.
Good luck. This is a common issue, I suspect.
DS

[minitnkr]

Anything can be done w/enough time & money. I couldn't advise you w/o more info., but my concern w/the construction shown in this very small glimpse, would be the integrity of the side walls more than the roof. I would suggest consulting an engineer before hacking & slashing. It could be as simple as replacing existing joists & braces with smaller, more numerous trusses. PaulE

[AlanG]

Cheers for the replies guys. I know a neighbour has done his loft out (unofficially) but i'd rather have everything done legally and safely. Me thinks i'll save up and get an engineer/builder to have a look at it