The formerly ?prison-like? home was outfitted with a large window, sleeping loft, and a stunning wood-beam ceiling Natural light can make or break a space. For this tiny home built in an old Beijing alley, it made all the difference. Squished between five other older buildings and accessed through a small courtyard, the 300-square-foot abode was hampered by poor light access and a low ceiling, giving it an unappealing, cave-like atmosphere.

Before the renovation

But with the addition of a new glass wall, outdoor table space, sleeping loft, and restored cathedral ceiling, the home was transformed into a chic and modern abode.

Architects OEU-ChaO began by creating a covered path through the courtyard from the ?lobby? to create a more directed entry point into the home. Then they entirely removed the front wall, slightly expanding the home into the courtyard with a wall of windows. Counter-height tables were placed on both sides of the glass, allowing for a more coherent connection between outside and in. The dropped ceiling was removed to expose elegant traditional beams in the living space. The new height meant that a child?s sleeping loft could be added above parent?s bed. Clean-lined wooden furniture, minimal decoration, and industrial touches?like the concrete floor?combine to create an open modern space.

Via: Inhabitat, Arch Daily

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