the attic was an ideal location because of its vaulted ceilings and lofty volume. the varied ceiling height, ranging from 2 to 13 feet, challenged the creation of a design that utilized the largest possible floor area. this was achieved by placing the living room, bedroom and kitchen under the tallest ceilings; utilizing the four existing roof dormers as the locations for the kitchen, bathroom, dining room and study; and by installing built-in book shelves and storage areas around the permiter where the ceiling height is the lowest. because the dormers had the only windows, skylights were added for additional sunlight and ventilation. 

exclusive access to this apartment was added through a new interior staircase at the 1st and 2nd stories with entry from a private garden in the rear yard. by claiming some additional space at each stair level, an entry and extra bedroom were added.