A compact self-build retrofit that uses a timber insert, integrated storage and fabric upgrades to make a one-bedroom studio feel larger and perform better.
The Studio shows how a small and inefficient dwelling can be radically improved without adding floor area. A new timber insert defines sleeping and washroom functions so the main volume can remain open for living, dining and cooking.
Integrated storage and a compact mezzanine guest nook make every part of the plan work harder. The architecture is deliberately achievable for a first-time self-builder, balancing readily available components with selected higher-quality details.
The retrofit also improves insulation, airtightness and ventilation, demonstrating that environmental and spatial performance can be improved together even on a modest budget.