Bathing Under the Stars
A loft conversion opens up entirely new dimensions of space and light.
Loft conversions do more than simply expand a home's floor area—they can completely transform a house's character. This 1950s family home in a Bergisch-Gladbach residential neighborhood is a perfect example. Externally, it displays classic period architecture typical of its era. But the owners envisioned something new: converting the upper floor and attic into a bright, modern, generously proportioned living space with abundant natural light and dynamic spatial experiences.
The owners commissioned Badtke Architects from Bergisch-Gladbach to design and execute a renovation that respectfully honors the original structure while embracing modern design. Two major challenges emerged: managing the roof's structural demands, and navigating the fact that the lower floors remained occupied throughout construction. The architects took a bold approach—completely dismantling the existing roof, fully renovating the upper story and attic, and introducing an ingenious new roof design. Rather than adding a traditional dormer structure, they inverted the concept: they opened up a section of the roof and folded it upward, then clad the resulting surfaces entirely in transparent glazing. This simple yet sophisticated solution floods the interior with light and fundamentally reshapes how daylight moves through the home. Complementary roof windows were added elsewhere for additional illumination. The upper floor now houses the master suite, dressing room, bathroom, and children's room. Warm materials—solid wood flooring, custom cabinetry, and strategic color accents—create a modern sensibility that never feels cold. The children's room stands out for its collage-like arrangement of furniture steps that climb toward the attic's peak, creating a breathtaking perspective that seems to reach toward the sky. All spaces have gained dramatically in luminosity, as architect Stefan Badtke notes: "Throughout the day, changing light creates an ever-shifting experience within the home—from invigorating dawn brightness to a contemplative soak beneath starlight."
Photography Credits:
Axel Hartmann Photography
www.ah-fotografie.de
(From CUBE Cologne Bonn, Issue 03|20)
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