Reading RG1
Part two storey, part single storey rear extension, alterations to the boundary treatment and conversion of the house into two flats, each meeting nationally described space standards.
14 Mount Pleasant is a Victorian house in the Katesgrove area of Reading. The owner wanted to convert it into two flats, which is assessed under policy H8 and the Residential Conversions SPD and needs to show good living conditions for both homes.
A part two storey, part single storey rear extension adds the space needed for two good sized flats. The two storey element is kept narrow and the single storey part extends further, a profile that respects the neighbours' daylight and is common along the street. Brickwork, windows and roof details follow the original house, and rooflights bring light into the upper flat.
Each flat meets the nationally described space standards, with layouts shown in full on the floor plans. The boundary treatment was altered to give the ground floor flat its own private garden area, and bin and cycle storage are laid out on the plans.
We prepared elevations, floor plans for both flats and the boundary treatment details. The flats' layouts were kept simple and stacked where possible so that services and noise separation work efficiently between the two homes.
Mount Pleasant lies in the Katesgrove area, where Reading's Article 4 direction removes permitted development rights for small HMOs. Converting to self contained flats is a different use and is assessed under policy H8, but the council still checks that conversions do not result in the loss of family housing in areas under pressure.
The upper flat uses the roof space for living accommodation, with rooflights that bring in light without overlooking neighbours. The roof form of the extension was kept simple so it sits comfortably against the original house.
We have also worked at 17 Mount Pleasant, and our Reading projects include further flat conversions at 2 Mason Street and 67a Foxhill Road. Each was shaped by the Residential Conversions SPD, which sets out exactly what Reading expects.
The alterations to the boundary give the ground floor flat a private garden with a defined edge, while the upper flat has access to shared space. Clear boundaries reduce disputes between occupiers and help the council see that each flat has adequate amenity.
Both flats meet the nationally described space standards, with bedroom sizes, storage and overall floor areas shown on the plans so the case officer can check them quickly.
Two new semi-detached dwellings · Reading RG30
New end-of-terrace dwelling · Reading RG6
Conversion to 3 flats with rear extension · Reading RG1
Roof raising & loft conversion · Tilehurst, Reading RG30
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