9 Small Attic Rooms That Work

9 Small Attic Rooms That Work

Green living isn't just about living small, it's also about maximizing the space you already have. While most attics are empty or used for storage, with just a little creative thinking that space could be used more efficiently. By converting an attic to an extra bedroom or home office, you get the extra space without resorting to an expensive addition or bigger home - a win-win for the environment and your pocketbook!

Top Row:

1 Small attics could be a great solution for a child's bedroom. Really, who didn't dream of this kind of a thing when they were a kid?

2 A little white paint goes a long way in making an attic feel bright and airy.

3 The rich colored wood and delicate chandelier make this room feel charming, even with a mattress on the floor!

4 Pitched roofs are not mandatory, as seen in this reinterpretation of a typical attic shape.

5 Attics are perfect spaces for bedrooms. Not only are they cozy, but you really don't need tall ceilings when the main activity is sleeping.

Bottom Row:

6 Granted, most attics don't come with windows and that's why skylights and roof windows are great additions to provide natural light (and egress, if required).

7 Although narrow, this space accommodates beds and storage without feeling claustrophobic.

8 Reusing existing boards or flooring can be a great way to keep old materials from going to the landfill.

9 This space takes advantage of the awkward area where the roof meets the floor by incorporating built-in bookshelves.

10 Carved out of an existing attic, I love that the space was expressed on the outside of the building as well.

Note: Attic floors are often covered with insulation so it's a good idea (and probably required depending on where you live) to add insuation in the walls and ceiling of any space that's being converted. And if your attic is vented, you might need to maintain an airspace between the top of the insulation and the bottom of the roof sheathing. Check with your local building code to be sure.

Original article and pictures take www.apartmenttherapy.com site