Space-Savvy Solutions

Project Details:

Homeowner had a tiny studio flat and needed a practical built-in cabin bed. This project took 5-6 days of carpentry and it was built on-site.

Materials Used:

MDF, pine wood and hand-painted.

What was the room like before?

“The flat was a very small studio; one small room for living, sleeping and the kitchenette, and one mid-sized bathroom. The previous owners had actually used it as a “London crash pad” so all they had was a sofa bed and a table and chairs in the living area when I first saw the property. I had been looking to buy a small flat for myself on and off for the last couple of years. Although my budget did stretch to a one bed, as it was the first property I was buying and I was buying alone, I was more interested in doing something creative with a smaller, more cost effective flat.

I had seen properties with mezzanines on pinterest, instagram etc. previously, and stayed in a few quirky airbnbs overseas, but it was only when I saw this flat in person and how high the ceilings were, that I started doing serious research on topics such as small houses, tiny houses, furniture to maximise space etc. and planned out where a mezzanine could feasibly be built before I put an offer in to purchase the flat.

The appeal of a mezzanine is that the bedroom area would be completely separate from the living area and have an element of privacy and cosiness, and the living area itself is now a great size (for a city-based property) for one person to live in”.

What was the room like after?

“It’s really spacious and bright, especially considering how small the dimensions of the main living space actually are. I do also have a lot of books so having bespoke furniture like the bookcases lining the walls are a really good way to maximise what space the flat does have left.

The stairs which also double as storage is one of my favourite parts because it doesn’t take up too much floor space from the room and it gives the flat a lot of character. I’ve had a few handymen, electricians etc over to the flat since and they’ve all been fascinated by it! I also like that there’s a really good differentiation between the living area below – where I’m able to have friends/guests over – and the sleeping area above.
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