The Bookshelf House

Interior renovation of a Private House

The Bookshelf House, designed by Andrea Mosca Creative Studio, is an interior renovation project that showcases the innovative use of a bookshelf as a multifunctional element. The brief for the previously dark and run-down home was to create a brighter space, add an enclosed office on the mezzanine, and create a separate kitchen filled with natural light. The architect transformed the stacked bookshelf into a central feature of the home, incorporating it into various aspects of the design.

The bookshelf in the Bookshelf House serves as more than just a place to display books. It also acts as stair banisters, a screen, a room divider, and storage cabinets. The single wood element moves and transforms, adapting to the different volumes and functions of the space. This innovative approach not only maximizes the functionality of the bookshelf but also adds a unique and visually striking element to the overall design.

The main woodwork in the Bookshelf House is done with Plexwood double-sided beech panels, which not only make the construction easier but also add a touch of warmth and natural beauty to the space. The panels are oiled to enhance their durability and longevity. Additionally, the design features a stone Italiana quartz countertop that is five times stronger than marble and has a smooth, elegant appearance.

One of the design challenges of the Bookshelf House was to complete a complex project with a limited budget and only one joiner, without a workshop. Despite these constraints, the architect successfully created a space that is both functional and visually stunning. The bookshelf's ability to transform and adapt to different functions showcases the architect's creativity and innovation.

The Bookshelf House project started in October 2015 and was completed in November 2016. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted on bookshelf shape and dimensions, as well as the manipulation of the panels to create a lightweight and visually appealing structure. The architect started with paper models, then created a detailed 3D model, and finally made real-scale models with the aid of a woodmaker.

The Bookshelf House has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2017. This award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill, contributing to improvements in quality of life.