Five hundred square feet may be perfect for an artist’s studio. Yet it can be a real challenge for a home that provides any interest or privacy without feeling claustrophobic. Or it may be an incredible opportunity for suspense and creativity. This split level open space, in the southern Parisian suburbs of Montrouge, was taken to new heights – despite or perhaps because of its small size.
The home is divided right down the center of its length by a change in height. A stream-lined bath and a narrow kitchen share the upper level with the dining room.
In the very middle of the space lies a bedroom enclosed by three walls and completely open to the dining room. In fact, this bedroom cube is suspended from the ceiling and never touches the floor. It’s just at the right height that you can easily sit on the edge and I imagine friends sitting there before a dinner party, discussing how utterly fabulous the apartment is!
The bedroom cube may lack privacy though it creates suspense and seclusion for the lower level living space. From above you get only tiny glimpses of day light and color of what lies beyond the cube. Narrow stairs stretch down both sides of the living area, their width also determined by the cube.
The entire volume is covered in white and bathed in light from large windows at both ends. Bright pops of solid color modern and funky furniture and art appear to be on display against the book case lined walls. It just delights me that a simple yet genius and fresh outlook can be so suspenseful.
Architects: ecdm architectes
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