There are a few reasons beyond the cosmetic for why somebody would choose to convert their roof into a flat roof, but one of the main reasons are the potential increase in height for their roof, so that their topmost spaces are more usable. By converting their roof, they achieve more space in their home, but converting to a flat roof isn’t the only possible solution, as roof raising is another good option.
Raising a roof is done by placing what are essentially jacks in a gaps between the roof and the wall, just like jacks for your car only with far greater precision, so that the roof can be raised and additional wall added to gain extra height.
This option isn’t well-suited to every type of pitched roof, as truss roofs can’t be raised without compromising the structure, but for ones where it is possible, the cost is likely to be far lower than any flat roof conversion; with less materials requires, and far less waste as well.