Here's a brilliant idea for making the most of that extra space above your head. real living's reno guru Sarah de Lancelle shares a few ideas ...

If the clutter at your place is getting you down, it may be time to investigate the benefits of attic storage.

The first step in making the most of your attic is to decide on how you’d like to use it. If it’s storage only, then there’s very little you need to do. If you would like to convert it into an extra room, it’s likely to be more complicated.

Secondly, look at ventilation. As a storage-only space, fumigating it regularly will protect your possessions and prevent any unwanted visitors! Regardless, seal things properly when storing them for long periods of time, preferably in airtight containers. Of course, attics also make great walk-in wardrobes.

If there are windows in the space, it may be very easy to turn it into a usable room. If not, your local council will be able to provide you with the regulations necessary for construction. Remember that attics often have the potential for great views, so take that into account when planning windows.

Lastly, you need to consider access. There are many companies today offering solutions from spiral staircases to pull-down ladders. You need to look at access points within the home, quantity of traffic, frequency of use, items (and their weight) that will need to go up and down, as well as your physical ability, as some methods are quite flimsy. Shop around and do your homework before choosing your access option and booking installation. As a guide, the Attic Conversion Centre in Sydney quotes around $800 for an aluminium ladder and $900 for wood.

Don't forget that you may be able to create a loft area inside your home or apartment by utilising the roof cavity above an existing room.

There really is a wide variety of uses for this empty piece of real estate. So go exploring — you never know what you might find!