This time, we would like to introduce you a tiny apartment in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, which is owned by a pair of retired architects. Spending most of their time in the countryside, they asked the French studio FREAKS Architecture to convert their 30 sqm (323 sqft) typical Parisian style workshop into a city home where they could spend weekends. The clients also wanted to have a living space that could evolve through the day according to their changing activities.
The architects used the high ceiling of the former workshop and arranged the second level above the kitchenette and bathroom, where they organized a bedroom area with two beds. The rest of the apartment is an open space featuring a mobile multi-functional unit, which organizes the space in many configurations depending on where it is positioned.
This arch-shaped unit was inspired by the tournette, a rotating stage element used in theatrical productions in order to quickly change the stage scenery. It also gave the name to the apartment – La Tournette.
One side of the unit is occupied by grid shelving, while the other side houses a fold-out dinner table. Standing in the center of the apartment, the unit divides the more public front from the more private rear. However, it can be moved to one of the walls, offering more floor area when the pair, for example, wants to invite friends. The table can also be turned towards the kitchen, serving as an extra counter for preparing food.
This article is a part of the ‘Compact Living’ series. You can read about other designs of compact houses and apartments on this page.
YEAR: 2017-2018
LOCATION: 13th arrondissement, Paris, France
FLOOR AREA: 30 sqm (323 sqft)
ARCHITECTURE: FREAKS Architecture
PHOTOS: David Foessel