The complete reconstruction of a small-scale attic apartment was based on the principle of opening and unification, because the original layout completely ignored the potential of the space. Everything except for load-bearing structures was removed and two new windows were created. Removal of suspended ceilings has revealed the trusses, opened and lit up the space. Chaotic partitions were replaced by the compact sanitary core in the middle of the layout, which defined the new continuous space, double room for children and the minimum bedroom for the parents.
The continous line of furniture defines the space. As its integral part, it unifies the attic from the entrance hall to the working area. It transforms out of the closet through the storage drawers, kitchen cabinets, fridge and sofa up to the desk. A subtle rotation of the refrigerator visually enlarges the living area and separates it much better from the kitchen. The opposite steel grid adapts to the books, the gramophone, the fuel wood and the flue awhile reducing visual conflict of a stove and TV. It also forms the (material) whole with a trio of robust, custom made tables. The only direct view from the living space is framed by generous, unsplit window. The placement, height and type of lighting fixtures accentuate the character of the attic.
The material is dominated by birch plywood and solid oak. Old truss structures were left in the original colour, while the new beams are gently painted white. The grid and the tables are made of natural matte steel. The entrance area, sanitary and technical rooms are defined by the dark floor tiles. Minimum space has led to it‘s consistent use: very low beds with storage space under the slope of the roof, a very deep socket passing through a rung, bath with shower around the corner etc. The result was achieved also thanks to great cooperation and understanding from the clients.
The complete reconstruction of a small-scale attic apartment was based on the principle of opening and unification, because the original layout completely ignored the potential of the space. Everything except for load-bearing structures was removed and two new windows were created. Removal of suspended ceilings has revealed the trusses, opened and lit up the space. Chaotic partitions were replaced by the compact sanitary core in the middle of the layout, which defined the new continuous space, double room for children and the minimum bedroom for the parents.
The continous line of furniture defines the space. As its integral part, it unifies the attic from the entrance hall to the working area. It transforms out of the closet through the storage drawers, kitchen cabinets, fridge and sofa up to the desk. A subtle rotation of the refrigerator visually enlarges the living area and separates it much better from the kitchen. The opposite steel grid adapts to the books, the gramophone, the fuel wood and the flue awhile reducing visual conflict of a stove and TV. It also forms the (material) whole with a trio of robust, custom made tables. The only direct view from the living space is framed by generous, unsplit window. The placement, height and type of lighting fixtures accentuate the character of the attic.
The material is dominated by birch plywood and solid oak. Old truss structures were left in the original colour, while the new beams are gently painted white. The grid and the tables are made of natural matte steel. The entrance area, sanitary and technical rooms are defined by the dark floor tiles. Minimum space has led to it‘s consistent use: very low beds with storage space under the slope of the roof, a very deep socket passing through a rung, bath with shower around the corner etc. The result was achieved also thanks to great cooperation and understanding from the clients.
Apartment in the attic
Realisation: 2014 – 2016
Photo: Traga
Publication: Home, Bydlení, ASB
Furniture production: Josef Nedorost
Tables and grid production: eisen.cz
Team: David Neuhäusl, Matěj Hunal