In the heart of Madrid’s Hortaleza district, a compact apartment has been ingeniously transformed by CumuloLimbo Studio, showcasing the remarkable potential of inexpensive materials to create sophisticated living spaces. This transformation story, dubbed UpHouse, is a testament to innovative architectural design that optimizes space, function, and aesthetic appeal within the constraints of a modest budget.
The project was initiated by a young couple seeking to expand their living area in a way that defied the typical limitations of apartment living. Their vision was to increase the apartment’s vertical space by adding a second level, thereby creating a distinct separation between public and private zones within their home. With a budget cap of $39,000, the challenge was not only to fulfill the spatial requirements but also to ensure that the newly created spaces were well-lit, airy, and visually appealing.
CumuloLimbo Studio’s solution was both imaginative and practical. Instead of opting for a conventional full-floor addition, which could potentially make the apartment feel cramped and dark, the architects proposed the creation of a mezzanine. This strategic choice allowed for the expansion of usable space without compromising the openness and light quality of the apartment.
The execution of this concept involved the removal of the existing plasterboard ceiling above the central bathroom area, making way for the insertion of the mezzanine. This new loft space, designed to accommodate a bed, closet, and vanity, is a marvel of material reclamation and aesthetic ingenuity. It is supported by steel columns and beams, which were deliberately left exposed to add an industrial charm to the space. The flooring and walls were clad in deconstructed plywood shipping crates, previously used for transporting electronic equipment, repurposed here to bring warmth and texture to the interior.
A defining feature of the loft is its open sides, which overlook the lower level of the apartment, save for a few strategically placed cables. This design choice not only maintains visual connectivity between the two levels but also facilitates the flow of natural light throughout the space.
Access to the loft is ingeniously integrated into the apartment’s layout, with a staircase leading up from the kitchen counter. This unique arrangement emphasizes the studio’s commitment to maximizing the functionality of every square inch of the apartment. A black step stool complements the staircase, providing a practical solution for reaching the mezzanine and can be conveniently stashed away when not in use.
The introduction of the mezzanine effectively divides the ground level into distinct zones, delineating public and private functions within the apartment. This spatial organization is further reinforced by the thoughtful selection of materials. The east side of the apartment, which houses a revamped kitchen and living area, features white walls that reflect light from an adjoining patio, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is modernized with open shelving and a striking graphic backsplash made from black tiles.
On the opposite side, a music studio has been created, where walls covered in plywood lend an intimate ambiance to the space. Addressing the challenge of lighting the upper level, CumuloLimbo Studio installed an innovative feature in the music studio: mirror-lined wooden slats suspended from the ceiling. This installation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also serves a functional purpose by reflecting and multiplying natural light, thereby illuminating the loft above.
The bathroom, too, received a significant upgrade with the addition of geometric tiles and a new vanity, contributing to the overall coherence and modernity of the apartment’s design.
CumuloLimbo Studio’s work on UpHouse is a masterclass in the transformation of limited spaces using budget-friendly materials. The project stands as a shining example of how creativity and strategic design can overcome the constraints of space and budget, resulting in a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The use of salvaged materials not only underscores the studio’s commitment to sustainability but also adds unique character and story to the apartment. UpHouse, with its thoughtful design and innovative use of space, serves as an inspiration for urban dwellers everywhere, demonstrating that even the most compact of apartments can be transformed into a spacious, light-filled home with the right architectural vision.
Photos by Javier de Paz García (estudioballoon.es).