Space is like the wind: You can't see it, but you can feel it. People tend to look at the space in a home in terms of quantity-either there is too much space or, more likely, too little. Architects, on the other hand, see space as a way of creating an experience in a structure, a commodity that should be shaped to fit the needs of the people who occupy it.

One way to make the most of a home's space is through effective use of the attic. An unused, dusty old attic can be transformed from wasted space into a lovely vaulted ceiling, a spacious loft, or additional upstairs bedrooms. Renovation Design was able to incorporate all three of these features into the Bates's unusually wide attic (see related article in this newsletter). The previously unused attic space has been turned into two children's bedrooms with walk-in closets, a vaulted ceiling for the living room, and a large loft that overlooks the living room on one side and the family room on the other. The new vaulted ceiling also allowed for the addition of a 6' x 9' arched window in the living room, which lets wonderful light into the area.

What could be done with the attic space of your home? There are many factors to consider, including the pitch of the attic, the addition of a staircase to access the area, strengthening ceiling joists to support livable space, upgrading roof joists to hold insulation, and earthquake safety requirements. Renovation Design can examine these factors for your attic and help you determine whether finishing your attic is feasible. We'd love to help you turn your wasted attic space into usable space that enhances the beauty and functionality of your home.

Annie Vernon, Renovation Design Group
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