Ideas on How to Convert an Attic With a Gable Roof

Storage

• Especially in smaller homes, turning a gabled attic into a storage room makes sense. Just throwing stuff up there in boxes allows for damage to items. Build custom shelving to house books, heirlooms and other things that you have no room for but want to hang on to for one reason or another. Use the space to store seasonal items in an organized way as well. For example, place potting soil, fertilizer and other gardening supplies in buckets to prevent leakage, or wrap holiday lights up on hooks to prevent tangling.

Bedrooms

• Dormers are definitely a must to add extra light in a gable attic bedroom. Create an area for a growing teenager who wants her own space, or design the perfect guest suite that you have no extra room for in the main part of your house. Canopy beds draw the eye upwards to the shape of the roof. Custom built-in dressers, nightstands and an entertainment center offer the air of a posh hotel right in your own home. Depending on the size of your attic, plans may even be made to install a small half bathroom.

Family Room

• If your family is outgrowing the house, turn your attic with a gable roof into a family room that everyone can enjoy together. Bring in some comfortable seating, a TV and activities that your family enjoys. Custom-built shelving gives you a place to store books, movies, board games and electronic gaming systems. Have everyone get involved in designing and decorating the room to make it really feel like a part of your home.

Other Ideas

• Convert the attic into a room that fits in with your passions and lifestyle. Examples include a theater room where only movies are watched, a playroom where toys are stored (to keep them out of the rest of the house) or an artist loft to house all of your supplies. Other options include a workout space for those who have no time or inclination to go out to a gym, a game room with a pool table and small wet bar, or a library with only shelves of books and one comfortable large reading chair.