Unlocking the Secrets: How a Berlin Loft Achieved a Floating Bedroom Design

Welcome to the Floating Bedroom Revolution

In the realm of home design, lofts with ultra-high ceilings offer a unique canvas for creativity. But how do you maximize the potential of a 16-foot ceiling in a space that resembles a vast box? Enter Siki Im, a fashion designer turned architect, who took on the ambitious renovation of his 1,600-square-foot Berlin apartment, aiming to create a floating bedroom.

"There are not many residences in Berlin with this ceiling height, especially in our neighborhood of Mitte, so it felt like a unique thing to do," says Im. The floating bedroom not only enhances the aesthetic but also serves practical purposes by extending the mezzanine floor to create more living space.

A Room Seemingly Suspended in Space

The design is inspired by the principles of wabi-sabi and German rationalism, aiming to counteract the prevalent grayness of Berlin with warmer materials. Im describes the result as "soft brutalism":

• He avoided load-bearing columns to maintain the open feel below, collaborating with a structural engineer to install a steel brace system capable of supporting over 2,200 pounds.
• The project required the use of a crane to lift massive beams into the apartment, necessitating the closure of the street.
• The materials chosen, including a custom-designed American oak wood bed integrated into the space, enhance the intimacy and warmth of the lofted bedroom.

The floating box resembles a sculpture and incorporates natural stone granules for the walls and ceiling. The adjustable walls allow for an airy atmosphere, facilitating a connection with the common living space below.

Embracing Cozy Spaces in Berlin

While cozy spaces may not be the first thought when envisioning Berlin, Im's design evokes a sense of tranquility reminiscent of Asian tea rooms. "The box hangs like a sculpture, and thanks to its playfully transformative nature, it gives me and my family a lot of satisfaction," he reflects.

Project Credits:
Architect of Record: Siki Im, Siki Im Architecture / @sikiim