A Walkable Bookshelf Transforms an Attic into a Home
In Stuttgart, SOMAA converted two small apartments and a storage loft from the 1930s into one functional, light-filled residence. The redesign removes non-load-bearing walls and opens the ceiling, creating a continuous flow between cooking, dining, working, and resting areas. A central kitchen anchors the plan, while hidden doors and a curtain system provide flexible boundaries without heavy partitions.
The standout feature is a custom black MDF unit that doubles as both bookshelf and staircase. It leads to a lofted sitting area and reveals the original timber beams, connecting the space vertically while keeping reading and storage integrated into daily life. The bathroom is concealed behind cabinetry, maintaining a clean layout that prioritizes clarity and ease of movement.
Natural materials like lye-washed Douglas fir contrast with the graphic black shelving and salmon-red beams, giving the apartment warmth with bold accents. Large roof windows bring daylight deep into the interior, framing views toward Stuttgart’s TV tower and nearby vineyards. The project balances openness with flexibility, transforming a cramped attic into a modern urban retreat.
Photography by Zooey Braun