Minimalist Yurikago House With Multiple Levels

This house in Barcelona is built with multiple levels and sublevels to use every inch of space

This house in Barcelona is built with multiple levels and sublevels to use every inch of space

Architecture studio Mas-aqui has transformed an apartment in Barcelona into a multi-level home lined with wood and ceramic tiles. The half levels were used to create more space on the upper storey and to start using a previously unused lower level.

The project is called Yurikago House after the Japanese word for a cradle. The name references the shape of the wooden structure that supports part of a new mezzanine, and also works as a reinforcement for Yurikago House’s frame. The cradle-like mezzanine is made of slatted wood that allows light to filter down onto the ground floor dining area. This space adjoins a recessed kitchen, while a bathroom is tucked away behind a wooden door panel.

The living room meanwhile is on a raised platform with tall arched windows and doors that open onto a balcony. This level is accessible via a pair of wooden steps: one set rests on a tiled floor and the second is perched on a concrete plinth that doubles as a fireplace. The sunny lounge area looks out over the balcony and enjoys a high ceiling vaulted in the traditional Catalan style. A wooden structure covering a staircase doubles as a table. On the other side of the dining area, another step leads up to a long wooden platform that connects with a flight of cantilevered wooden stairs. This platform can double as a bench.

The topmost level of Yurikago House is divided into several sections. A study area sits in the wooden cradle, the taller side forming a half-wall that acts as a balcony overlooking the living space and the windows beyond. Floor-to-ceiling glazing allows natural light to flow unimpeded into the adjacent main bedroom, which is accessed via a sliding door. Two small rooms either side of the bedroom contain a toilet and shower room respectively.

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The kitchen and dining space are united, the kitchen is done with grey cabinets and the dining zone shows off a wooden table and black chairs

The kitchen and dining space are united, the kitchen is done with grey cabinets and the dining zone shows off a wooden table and black chairs

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Much wood and plywood are used for decor, and the ceiling here is done with wooden slabs

Much wood and plywood are used for decor, and the ceiling here is done with wooden slabs

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The mini living room is done with a grey sofa and a quirky chair plus a large entrance to the balcony

The mini living room is done with a grey sofa and a quirky chair plus a large entrance to the balcony

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The bedroom and home office are upstairs, they are filled with natural light

The bedroom and home office are upstairs, they are filled with natural light

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Every corner and nook that you might call awkward is used to advantage here

Every corner and nook that you might call awkward is used to advantage here

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This bedroom shows off a tiny floating sink

This bedroom shows off a tiny floating sink

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The spaces are clad with wood and with terracotta tiles to make them look warmer

The spaces are clad with wood and with terracotta tiles to make them look warmer

Source: dezeen