Elegance in the Eaves
Attic Conversion with Roof Terrace in a Historic Townhouse
When Susanna Maslankowski of rooom.biz undertook a comprehensive renovation of this charming early 20th-century townhouse, the transformation of its neglected attic became the centerpiece of the project. What was once mere storage space has been reimagined as an exclusive 60 m² penthouse apartment. A generous dormer window was key to the design, flooding the space with natural light and expanding its usable area. The flat roof of the existing three-story wing proved the perfect foundation for an expansive 30 m² roof terrace—a rare urban oasis offering commanding city views. The result? A sophisticated urban sanctuary that rises above the Düsseldorf skyline, combining thoughtful spatial planning with refined finishes that evoke the relaxed elegance of a vacation retreat.
Inside, the apartment reveals a meticulously crafted interior. A cozy sleeping loft opens to unobstructed sky views, while warm materials—white-oiled oak herringbone flooring and custom joinery—establish an airy, sophisticated aesthetic. "The dramatic roof slopes made conventional furniture arrangement impossible," explains Maslankowski, "so we embraced a fully customized approach that defines the space itself." Every built-in element maximizes the compact footprint with precision. To enhance the sense of openness, living, sleeping, and kitchen zones flow seamlessly into one another. Whitewashed, matte-lacquered larch cabinetry and walls create elegant warmth throughout, punctuated by carefully chosen colorful furnishings and design icons that inject personality and vitality. Technologically, the apartment is fully contemporary: radiant floor heating, summer air conditioning, and a stylishly integrated gas fireplace ensure year-round comfort. "Despite its modest size," Maslankowski concludes, "this attic conversion delivers everything modern living demands."
Photography:
Andrea Dingeldein
www.andreadingeldein.de
(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 03|25)