Dormer loft conversions
A box extension built out from the roof slope
Loft conversions
Shell loft conversions in Nottingham & Derby
We build the structure and make it weatherproof, from the steelwork and floor to the windows, staircase and roofing. You finish the inside at your own pace and budget.
What is a shell loft conversion?
A shell loft conversion, sometimes called a first-fix conversion, covers the essential building work: the structure, the windows and everything else needed to create a weatherproof, structurally sound space.
Once the shell is complete, you take over the interior, such as plastering, electrics, plumbing, heating, flooring, lighting and decorating, either yourself or with your own trades.
From the first design consultation to sign-off, we guide you through the structural build with clear communication and a focus on finishing on time.
- Roof change
- Structure and weatherproofing done, fit-out left to you
- Best for
- Homeowners who want to finish the interior themselves, or in stages
- Suits
- Terraced, semi-detached and detached homes, subject to a loft assessment
- Planning
- Often permitted development. Larger structural changes or homes in conservation areas may need approval
What’s included
We build the shell, you make it yours
We build
- Structural steelwork
- Strengthening the floor and laying the new floor
- Roof alterations and a dormer if required
- Dormer windows or rooflights
- Insulation and ventilation
- The staircase
- External roofing work
You finish
- Internal plastering
- Electrics and plumbing
- Heating
- Flooring and lighting
- Decorating
The benefits of a shell conversion
Cost savings
Focusing on the essential structure can make a shell conversion more cost-effective than a full conversion.
Your design, your way
Finish and style the space to suit your taste and your budget.
A phased approach
Get the structural work done now and complete the interior as funds allow.
Why Top Mark
One team from the first drawing to final sign-off
20+ years’ experience
Two decades of designing and building loft conversions across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Designed around you
We listen to your ideas, suggest improvements and plan the space around the way you live.
Approvals handled
Private building control, structural engineer’s calculations and building regulations are all part of the service.
Clear quotes and updates
Detailed quotes that include building control fees, and clear communication as the work goes on.
Our process
How your loft conversion comes together
The same proven sequence on every project, from the first steel going in to the final sign-off, with you involved at the moments that matter.
- 01
Steel fabrication & structure
Work starts on day one with steel fabrication and the new structure, creating a strong framework to safely support your new living space.
- 02
Stair fitting
With the structure finished, we fit your new staircase so the loft is safe and easy to reach from the floor below.
- 03
Last-minute design
Once the stairs are in, you come up and see the space for yourself. Planning rooms and windows while standing in the loft is far easier than working from a drawing.
- 04
Plumbing & electrics
First-fix electrics and plumbing go in, and you can talk through ideas for your bathroom and main room with our electricians and plumbers.
- 05
Insulation & boarding
We insulate, plasterboard and build internal walls while our roofers and bricklayers work outside, keeping the time on site to a minimum.
- 06
Completion & sign-off
Plasterers, second-fix joiners, electricians and plumbers complete every detail on site, leaving you with a transformed home you’ll love for years to come.
Reviews
Rated 5.0 out of 5 by homeowners
From 31 reviews on Google. Here’s what a few of our customers had to say.
5 out of 5 stars
Highly recommend Top Mark Conversions Ltd They listened carefully to our ideas offered valuable suggestions and delivered exactly what we wanted The quality of the craftsmanship was impressive and our new living space has added both comfort and value to our home
William 5 out of 5 stars
We recently had a loft conversion completed by the team at Top Mark Conversions Ltd and couldn’t be happier with the results. From start to finish, they were incredibly helpful, professional, and clearly very experienced. Nothing was ever too much trouble for them – they were always happy to answer questions, offer advice, and make sure everything was exactly how we wanted it. The quality of workmanship is excellent, and the whole process felt smooth and well managed. I’d highly recommend TopMarkConversions to anyone considering a loft conversion. A great team delivering a fantastic end result!
Daniel H. 5 out of 5 stars
Mark and his team were fantastic throughout our project. From the initial meeting with Mark to discuss and price for the job he kept us informed at every step. The whole team were professional and nothing was too much trouble. With the access to various trades at his disposal, any requirements we had were able to be met. Would thoroughly recommend.
Calvin E. 5 out of 5 stars
Highly professional work from Mark and his team. All trades,material delivery,waste disposal and any loose ends were taken care of by Mark promptly Great communication, always on the other end of the phone to answer any questions Highly recommended
A G. 5 out of 5 stars
Mark and his team was truly amazing! The whole team was friendly , polite and helpful. Nothing was an issue for them. Helped us to design and achieve the most out of our loft. The space they have created is unbelievable. Highly recommend them! Trustful and professional service. They look after every single step of the work. We didn’t have to deal with anything. Hard to find such genuine contractors like them! 👌
Alexandra G. 5 out of 5 stars
Outstanding craftsmanship from Mark and his team, from day 1 Mark kept us informed and updated on the progress. We are so grateful for following Marks advice and years of experience, because we now have a loft space that suppresses all of our expectations and more. I can't thank you all enough. Highly, highly recommend. Thank you so much
Clare C.
5 out of 5 stars
Top Mark Conversions Ltd transformed our unused loft into a bright spacious and beautifully finished room. From the initial consultation to the final handover the team was professional organised and easy to work with The workmanship was exceptional and the project was completed to a very high standard
Brandon P. 5 out of 5 stars
Mark and his team were brilliant from start to finish. They completed the shell loft conversion efficiently while keeping the quality of work to a very high standard. They explained every step clearly, gave helpful advice and recommendations, and dealt with any issues that came up without any hassle. We’ve been left with a fantastic loft conversion and me and my wife couldn’t be happier with the result. Thanks again!
Michael D. 5 out of 5 stars
Mark and his team were incredible. It was unbelievable how quickly our cold dusty loft was transformed into a light and spacious luxury en-suite bedroom. Mark was always available to talk me through each stage of the conversion and help me make decisions when I had no idea what I wanted. I now have a beautiful bedroom and feel like I’m on holiday in my own house. Would highly recommend
Alison P. 5 out of 5 stars
What can I say! Nothing but high praises for Mark and his team! We moved out and handed over the keys and came back to our vision becoming a reality! Mark and his team were 100% professional from pre-contract to completion. Not once did I feel that any question, call, concern or request was unanswered or ignored! An absolutely talented team and brilliant company who I’ve recommended and would continue to recommend over and over again! Thanks again Mark and your team! You really did deliver a Top Mark Conversion!
Charlene G. 5 out of 5 stars
Very pleased to have found Mark and the team to do our loft conversion. From the moment of receiving the quote to the end we have always received the best service - the level of professionalism and expertise is second to none - nothing was too much trouble! We have managed to add on two extra bedrooms and a bathroom - just what our family needed - so pleased with the end result. Highly recommend!
Lynne D. 5 out of 5 stars
Mark and the team were brilliant! They completed my loft conversion, creating a third bedroom in my terraced house, to an excellent standard. From the start of the project they kept me upto date and nothing was too much trouble. Really lovely guys and I couldn’t recommend them highly enough. Thanks!
Claire O.
FAQs
Shell loft conversions: your questions answered
Can’t see your question? Our team is always happy to talk it through.
Ask us a questionWhat is included in a shell loft conversion?
Typically the structural steelwork, floor installation, roof alterations, a dormer if required, windows, the staircase and external roofing. Internal plastering, electrics, plumbing and decorating are usually done separately.
Why do homeowners choose shell loft conversions?
A shell conversion can reduce the overall cost and gives you the flexibility to finish the interior design and fit-out at your own pace.
Do shell loft conversions require planning permission?
Many fall under permitted development rights. Larger structural changes, or homes in conservation areas, may need planning approval.
Is a shell loft conversion suitable for all properties?
They suit many property types, including terraced, semi-detached and detached homes. A professional loft assessment is usually needed to confirm your loft has enough height and is structurally suitable.
What is the difference between a shell and a full loft conversion?
A shell conversion focuses on the structural build, while a full conversion also includes all the finishing work, such as plastering, electrics, plumbing, flooring and decorating.
Free quote
Let’s talk about your loft
Tell us a little about your home and what you have in mind. One of our project managers will get back to you to talk it through and arrange your free quotation.
- Mobile07925 891 170
- Landline0115 677 7496
- WhatsAppSend us a message
- Emailmark@topmarkconversions.co.uk
- Address131 Norman Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, DE7 8NR
- Opening hoursOpen 7 days, 9am to 5pm