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IDEAS IN DESIGN | MEZZANINES

Sky high

STRUGGLING WITH A LACK OF SPACE AND TOO MUCH
HEAD ROOM? THE ONLY WAY IS UP

Words Rosie Duncan

he solution seems simple when a room’s foot- Amy. “Building regulations state that a mezzanine that is
print is small but its height is limitless: why not located wholly in one room should be limited to half of the
introduce an extra level to turn the awkward floor area of the main room.” If the mezzanine exceeds this, it
T proportions to your advantage? What’s involved, will be considered to be a separate storey, says Amy, and will
however, can be complex, particularly given the extensive need its own access from a first-floor landing.
structural overhaul a mezzanine inevitably calls for. From the Focus on making the most of the space you already have,
planning stages to managing cohesive colour schemes between and addressing its problems efficiently. The room pictured
each floor, attention to detail is paramount. above is flooded with light, but the vast window is positioned
“Mezzanines, or galleries, not only provide additional only halfway up the wall, missing the majority of the SieMatic
floor space but also help define and create areas that are vital Urban kitchen below. A narrow gallery counteracts the issue,
for open-plan living, while also giving opportunities for more offering a new vantage point from which to enjoy the view,
private areas within the overall space,” says architect Craig plus space for a new seating area, separate from the kitchen.

HOMES & INTERIORS SCOTLAND