In the quest for more living space within the confines of our existing homes, many of us hit the familiar roadblocks of limited outdoor space for expansions or the high costs associated with digging out basements. But what if the solution isn’t around you or below you, but above?
The Magic of Mezzanines
For those who find themselves rich in ceiling height but poor in square footage, the mezzanine level presents an ingenious solution. These large, balcony-like spaces can transform the vertical potential of a room into valuable living areas without the need to extend the home’s footprint by even a single square meter. Whether it’s crafting a cosy seating nook or squeezing in an extra bedroom, mezzanines offer a blend of functionality and flair.
Originally popular in homes repurposed from other structures like schools or barns, mezzanines have also found their way into the heart of Victorian homes. The only catch? You’ll need ceilings high enough, typically around 4 meters, to make this architectural dream a reality.
A Personal Touch
Take the example of Kate Ellison and her husband, Robert, who integrated a mezzanine into their Victorian home in Stoke Newington, North London. Designed by Emil Eve Architects, this mezzanine floats above the kitchen cupboards, lined with bookcases for a cosy reading spot that keeps the family connected. Kate praises the addition for injecting a modern twist into their home, proving that mezzanines are not just about extra space, but about adding character and a “wow factor.”
Specialist companies like Neville Johnson can tailor mezzanine designs to suit personal tastes, especially for those looking to incorporate home libraries. But remember, to maintain the flow of natural light throughout the space, a mezzanine’s size is usually capped at half the area of the room below.
Privacy in Open Spaces
For those considering a mezzanine bedroom, privacy can be elegantly managed with folding or sliding screens. Ikea and Wayfair offer stylish solutions that delineate your elevated space without sacrificing the open, airy feel that makes mezzanines so appealing.
Brightening Basements and Beyond
Mezzanines can do more than just add space; they can transform the feel of a home by enhancing light flow and defining distinct areas. Life Size Architecture showcases this beautifully with their project to connect a house to its basement flat, using mezzanines to draw natural light downwards and create inviting nooks perfect for relaxation or enjoying garden views.
A Contrast of Styles
Architect Ana Sutherland’s redesign of a flat in London’s Barbican Estate illustrates the versatility of mezzanines. By adding an oak mezzanine in a Brutalist concrete building, Sutherland created a warm, intimate space that harmonises with the bold architecture below. This project highlights the potential of mezzanines to serve not just as extra space, but as design statements that respect and enhance the original character of a home.
The Verdict on Vertical Living
Mezzanines are a testament to the creativity and innovation possible within the realm of home design. While they do require certain architectural conditions, like adequate ceiling height, their ability to create new living spaces without expansion is unmatched. Perfect for studies, play areas, or additional bedrooms, mezzanines offer a unique solution to the age-old problem of needing more space. Just remember, with their open nature to the room below, they’re best suited for areas where privacy is not the top priority.
So, if you’re looking for a way to expand your living space without the hassle of building extensions or the expense of renovations, looking up might just be the way forward.