PROJECT PLANNING - Mezzanines

NEED MORE SPACE? LOOK UPWARDS. A NEW LEVEL CAN ADD LIVING, SLEEPING OR WORKING AREAS TO YOUR HOME…

- JENNIFER MORGAN

Amezzanine can transform the internal space of your home, often solving the problem of how to add that extra sleeping, seating or office area you crave. All you need is a relatively high ceiling - the higher the better - and you can effectively create another level out of otherwise wasted space.

‘A mezzanine can be a fantastic addition to any home and one that I think more people should consider,’ says Julian McIntosh of Julian McIntosh Architects (julianmcintosharchitects. co.uk). ‘By using vertical space, it can provide more square footage, create an elevated vantage point and add a level of theatre to your living area. On the other hand, it can also offer privacy and separation.’

WHAT TYPES ARE THERE?

‘There are two types of mezzanine,’ explains Elizabeth Calder, founder and design director of Biddis Lifestyle Design (biddislifestyle.com). ‘The first is a loft-bed style, where a very simple structure adds space, usually for a raised bed; this doesn’t need a great deal of headroom. The second is more traditional, where you add an entire first or second floor, which can become a bedroom with an en suite, for instance.’

WHAT TYPES ARE THERE?

‘There are two types of mezzanine,’ explains Elizabeth Calder, founder and design director of Biddis Lifestyle Design (biddislifestyle.com). ‘The first is a loft-bed style, where a very simple structure adds space, usually for a raised bed; this doesn’t need a great deal of headroom. The second is more traditional, where you add an entire first or second floor, which can become a bedroom with an en suite, for instance.’

WHAT IS THE IDEAL DESIGN?