|
MATERIALS
The former warehouse function has been a major inspiration in the use of raw and yet refined, industrial materials: Eternit and plywood covers and dominates the façades facing the street, with concrete and different-sized glass windows as modest contrasts to the plastered surface (e.g. the huge window towards the small terrace). This makes the XXS House delicate and simple in the monochrome Japanese manner without pretending to be minimalist. As a contrast, a rather luxurious material such as terrazzo is widely used as floor material and kitchen working surfaces indoors (including the sink), a strong request of the client to create a Mediterranean touch and personal memory reference.
|
|
INTERIOR
The metal staircase leading to the attic stands in the middle of the living space as a lonely piece of contemporary sculpture. The uneven steps make it look like a folding ladder – perhaps another playful reminiscent of the former warehouse function. Putting kitchen, dining, living and relaxing functions in the all–in-one-and-the–same-room compliments the idea of creating a hotel suite.
The upper floor, in the attic, just a few steps up the ‘ladder’, reveals the bedroom with two king-size beds on each side of the thin, angled iron rail. Total privacy with a view to the sky emphasises the quietness of the old, historic neighbourhood with the monastery not far away. What a perfect shelter and set-up for a monk, a travel-light nomad or anyone longing for contemplation in the middle of a busy city.
|