Living room with high ceiling makes space country house more emotional and expressive. What to think about when planning a two-level living room so that later there will be no unnecessary hassle? What nuances should be considered when organizing lighting, heating and ventilation? And what about unwanted acoustic effects?

3 Use height wisely

Make a gallery or mezzanine. There you can place a corner for secluded relaxation, an office, a library. The gallery can serve as a passage to other areas of the house.

5 Architectural elements

Beautiful staircase- leading to the second floor, to the gallery or to the mezzanine. It can become the main decoration of a high light space. Beams and bearing structures the mezzanine can also be played in the interior.

Photo: staircase 02 from the Santo Passaia factory.

4 How to arrange

Style unity. All rooms visible from the living room and adjacent to it - including those located on the mezzanine - must be decorated in the same style. Match colors and materials carefully to each other.

6 How to heat

Sophisticated heating system. It is difficult to heat a large volume: this requires considerable energy costs and all kinds of measures to reduce heat loss.

Plan a window on the mezzanine. Otherwise, due to natural convection, warm air from below will rise upward and it may be too stuffy on the mezzanine.

7 Windows and curtains

Special mechanisms and automation - will be needed to open and close tall windows, as well as control the curtains. The most convenient models are with a remote control. To clean the windows, you will most likely have to call a cleaning company.

Supply valves - install them so that the windows do not fog up and condensation does not appear on them. Usually one valve is installed on one leaf.

8 Smells

Requires forced ventilation. Without it, smells (for example, food or cigarettes) will rise from the bottom up - from the living room and dining room to the second floor, where bedrooms and a nursery can be located.

9 Noises

Acoustics can be unpredictable. A high ceiling often serves as a resonator and amplifies even the quietest sounds. It is recommended to install noise-absorbing doors in the premises of the second floor.

For home theater, call a specialist - so that when installing the equipment, he would adjust the acoustics in a room with a complex volume.

10 Additional daylight source

Roof windows. They will be very useful if there is a sloped ceiling in the two-level living room. The roof structure - beams, floors - can be left open.

11 Artificial lighting

You will need more light than in an ordinary living room. Consider the location of your main light and backlight source. In any case, you cannot do without it. Particular attention is paid to the niches under the mezzanines and under the stairs. Difficulties can arise when attaching a chandelier to a sloped ceiling and when replacing bulbs at high heights.

Examples of interiors with double-height living rooms

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A kitchen combined with a living room is a popular solution today. How to plan the interior of a kitchen-living room when the owners need a lot of work surfaces, but a separate one is not required dinner Zone?

What difficulties can you face and what should be considered when planning an open space? Experts from the Pobeda Design Bureau will tell you about the intricacies of combining a bedroom with a living room.

Is it possible to equip a living room for 10-12 square meters? Of course! To make a room look spacious, you don't need to use the entire arsenal of design techniques - understand the basic principles.

The close proximity of these two zones is convenient for small apartments with one owner, but the degree of autonomy can be different and depends on the owner's preferences and life scenario. Consider 8

The presence of a separate large dwelling - for many earlier this idea seemed only a dream. A few decades ago, two-level residential apartments seemed like an unprecedented luxury. However, today, having changed the same type of layouts, such apartments are present in almost all new buildings.

Large square meters, located on two floors, make it possible for everyone to feel like an aristocrat, to realize all designer fantasies and create a home that is completely suitable both in style and in comfort.

The layout of a two-level apartment allows you to organize individual space for each family member, and also arrange areas for joint pastime.

Features of duplex apartments

When buying an apartment with two floors, you should understand that these buildings have a number of technical featuresthat cannot be ignored.

The main feature is a clear and static layout, as a result of which some areas of the living space cannot be moved during the redevelopment work.


If redevelopment or repairs are planned in an apartment on two floors, then the following elements cannot be transferred:

  • entrance doorway;
  • kitchen area;
  • bathroom and toilet;
  • staircase construction.

Layout plan of duplex apartments

The layout of the two-storey apartment is based on the goal of delimiting the entire space into public and private territory. The public area is usually the first floor. It is here that the kitchen room, living room, dining area, hallway, office for work and guest bedroom... Upstairs, a family living space is organized with adult and children's bedrooms, a bathroom and a wardrobe.

It is very convenient to group rooms according to their direct functional purpose, that is, an office with a library, etc.

The main attribute of any interior of a two-level apartment is a staircase. It is not only a functional structure, without which it is simply impossible to get to the upper floor, but it is also the central exposition in the house.

Traditionally, the staircase is located either in the central part or near the wall panel on which it rests. When designing stair steps, the correct width and length of the landings should be measured so that it is safe and convenient to move around the structure.

Staircase options

Marching products - made from natural or artificial materials, usually wood or stone. The main advantage of such models is impeccable safety.

Having decorated such a staircase with wooden decorative props, you can safely include it in classic interior... The disadvantage of the marching design is that they are large in size, on average they occupy about 20 squares of area. These models are suitable for country style, and for modern or art deco.


Console models - visually, such stairs "soar" in airy weightlessness. Therefore, they look very stylish and modern. These stairs can be equipped with handrails. The main disadvantage is that cantilever structures are erected only near the wall.

Screw products - occupy a leading position in the market. This is due to their compactness, and therefore ease of use. There are many spiral variations of such products, so such stairs can be entered into any room. Will organically fit into modern stylistic concepts of high-tech, modern, empire, etc.

Forged staircase structures are distinguished by their exclusivity. Look great in modern interiors.

Products on bolts - such structures do not have a frame, and fastening is carried out to the railing using bolts. Suitable for complementing interiors of any style. The designs are distinguished by their ergonomics, they are quite strong and durable. The steps are made of materials such as stone, metal and glass.

Design decoration

The design of a two-level apartment should be carried out according to the main principle: the chosen style should be present throughout the home, creating a single design concept.

When choosing a style direction for your home, you should pay attention to the fact that in the final version you should get a cozy home in which it is pleasant to relax, work, and just live.

Designers identify several of the most popular styles that are suitable for decorating two-story apartments:

Minimalism is a restrained style, in the design of which a minimum amount of decor and furniture elements are used. In order not to overload the house with various details, you should seek the help of professionals who will develop a competent project in a minimalist style.

Hi-tech is a triumph of high technologies. The shapes are clear, the lines are simple and straightforward. The main role is assigned to high-tech innovations in technology.

Loft - the direction is as restrained as possible in decoration. Here, the basis of the decoration is made up of open communication networks, beams, pipes and brickwork on the walls.


Avant-garde, like art deco, is very bold and provocative styles, which is understandable when looking at photos of two-level apartments made in these styles. No classicism and traditional techniques. Each element is an experimental challenge to reality.

Each direction of the interior style has a lot of small nuances and features. Since duplex apartments have a considerable area, on which it is very important to organically and comfortably place many items, it is better to entrust the design and development of a design project of such apartments to professionals.

A two-story apartment must be well lit. Otherwise, you will get a dark boring decoration, in which it will not be comfortable to be.

A large panoramic window canvas can become the central element of lighting. In addition to its main functional role to illuminate and fill the house with light, it will be an important design element.


Two-storey apartments are undeniably very original and attractive because of their size and layout. However, they have disadvantages that cannot be ignored.

Firstly, these are the costs of utility bills, because such areas will pull a considerable item of expenses in the family budget.

Secondly, with frequent redevelopment manipulations, such housing will quickly fall into disrepair, so any repair here is a rather serious and responsible business.

Photos of duplex apartments

Duplex apartments are a dream come true for most people who prefer a space with separate areas. Only in apartments of this type can you find the feeling of your home in the center of a huge metropolis. In this case, it is customary to place a classic bedroom on the second floor, but the guest area, study, kitchen with dining room are on the first.

Advantages of duplex apartments

Apartments of this type have a huge number of advantages.

  • The first is the possibility of zoning.
  • Secondly, the presence of a staircase, which is not only an irreplaceable attribute, but also part of the decor.
  • Thirdly, a large amount of free, and at the same time open space. Moreover, in last years also common small apartments, consisting of two levels, but made of small apartments with standard ceilings.

Of course, when choosing a layout for a two-level apartment, you need to understand that there are structural features. For example, it is especially important that all the floors are strong, and when planning the premises located on the second level, accurate calculations are indispensable.

It is important to think in advance about the location of ventilation systems for water supply, as well as electricians, so that everything is done in accordance with standards and norms. This will allow you to avoid various inconveniences during your stay in the future.

The indisputable advantage of a modern two-story apartment is the ability to simultaneously use several styles in the interior, where the role connecting link a staircase protrudes. It is she who is the main element of decor in the house and in no case should be left without interesting solution designer.





Depending on your preferences, you can choose a straight, cantilever or any other type of staircase. It can also be done due to materials such as glass, wood, metal or any other. In addition, in the past few years, designers have even offered to equip stairs with an additional slide, which is designed for children to play.

Features of a two-level apartment of a technical nature

A clear layout with mandatory static is the main difference between almost any two-story apartment from any other. There are a number of elements that are prohibited from being moved elsewhere. It turns out that in a two-story apartment they must in any case remain where they were originally designed.

So, under no circumstances will you definitely be able to change the layout during the design of a two-story apartment. front door, a bathroom with a toilet, stairs, and a space dedicated to the kitchen. This is an important point that must be considered before purchasing an apartment.

Layout of a new two-story apartment

A project of this type of apartment is almost always based on the mandatory division of the entire area of \u200b\u200ban apartment into two spaces: private and public.

The second space is usually understood as: the first floor, which houses a kitchen with a dining room, a room for receiving guests, a storage room, a work space in the form of an office, bedrooms for guests who decide to stay overnight with you.

An important point. Ideally, rooms are grouped by functionality. For example, from the dining room there is a direct exit to the kitchen, and from the study to the library.

In the case when the area is small enough in the apartment, the ideal option is to use decorative partitions... It is with the help of them that you can easily divide rooms into functional zones.

There are two-level economy class apartments, the peculiarity of which is a small area of \u200b\u200babout 70 square meters... It is such apartments that usually require a truly ideal layout of two-level apartments, in which it is necessary to take into account the real estate of certain elements and use them in the most harmonious way.

How to choose a staircase for a duplex apartment

Considering various photos of two-level apartments, it is impossible not to notice that the main attribute of any construction project is the staircase. In apartments of this type, it acts rather as a functional necessity, while it is a contender for the title of the main part of any interior.




Traditionally, it is located in the center or next to a wall that can serve as a support. The width and height of the steps always comply with building codes, and are also chosen depending on the wishes of the tenants of the apartment. At the moment, it is always worth paying attention, because the safety of not only the owners of the apartments, but also all the guests, directly depends on this seemingly very small nuance.

Types of stairs

Marching staircase. This view stairs are usually made of either wood or stone. Its main advantage is safety. In addition, if you use curly supports made of high quality wood species, then in this way you can perfectly complement almost any interior.

It is important to note that this type of ladder has a significant drawback. Usually it occupies at least 20 square meters, so it is not suitable for all apartments. Moreover, if you like styles such as modern, country or art - far away, then this model is an ideal option.

Cantilever ladder. From the outside it may seem that such a ladder is literally floating in the air. That is why she always looks stylish and very modern.

If desired, the staircase can be built without railings. The only drawback is that it must be fixed near the wall. This significantly affects its operational capabilities.

A spiral staircase is one of the most popular options because it is quite compact. They are presented today in the most different variations almost any shape. Styles such as modern, hi-tech can ideally fit. The only drawback is the inconvenience to use.

Forged staircase. Artistic forging simply cannot be underestimated. Any of the combinations will look just perfect in modern style. Therefore, if you like exclusive, and also often use metal as a material, then you will certainly appreciate the elegance of this decorative element.

Ladder on the bolts. The peculiarity of such models is that they do not have a frame, but they are attached with bolts to the railing. Looks perfect in combination with any room style. Due to their stability, strength, and ergonomics, they are sufficient good option for a two-story apartment

The design always looks light, and at the same time takes up very little space. When working out the design of this staircase, you can make steps from almost any material, from stone to glass.

Regardless of which design you choose, beautiful interior It is quite simple to make a two-level apartment, turning each of the floors of your house into a real work of art in a short time. All that needs to be done is to put your whole soul into the planning stage and not be afraid of the embodiment of even the most incredible fantasies.










Photo of the design of two-level apartments

Of course in standard apartment Soviet-built no way to make a multi-level redevelopment. But if, for example, you are going to build new house, then, at current land prices, this option will give you the opportunity to significantly increase the living space. A similar restructuring is also good in the "old fund", in houses with high ceilings. It will allow not only to expand the space, but also to use one room for different purposes.

The second tier of an apartment can become a true decoration of your home, as well as help to solve arising problems with planning. It can easily accommodate a bedroom, library, working area or a winter garden.

Invented by the designers Jose Maria Saez and Daniel Moreno Flores, this version is made from natural wood and is located above the kitchen-dining room. Neat, quite original, with natural light through a panoramic window, in our climatic zone it is quite suitable for a summer house or as a second floor in a cafe.

In a home designed by architect Carter-Williams, the bedroom on the second level creates the visual feel of a studio apartment.

This small (only 29 square meters) Polish design firm 3XA apartment on the second floor has a bedroom with a huge bed, located just above the bathroom and hallway.

In the project of rebuilding the Oriental Warehouse Loft, a historic building in San Francisco, the specialists of the Italian House Studio by Studioata completely redesigned an attic that was completely unnecessary in the apartment into a residential area. Architects Edmonds and Lee introduced a bedroom, bath and library on the second level. Here, the space has also been increased due to glass rails, transparent walls in the bathroom. Which, of course, deprives the owner of such an apartment of privacy, but at the same time gives a feeling of freedom. The combination of heavy timber floors and left open old bricks with sleek, light modern finishes, transparent glass panels and a seemingly weightless steel staircase make the home a little odd, but totally unique and unrepeatable.

Dark walls, white ceilings, contrasting wood and metal, a sharp separation of the main space and an additional level are presented in this apartment in Unité d'Habitation, a famous house in Marseille, built by the architect Le Corbusier.

Here is another variant of a two-level housing presented by the Italian firm Studioata. Clearly separated from the rest of the room by a contrasting wood shelf and adorned with a floating staircase, this home office adds personality to the average studio apartment.

Such an unusual bathroom was created by Dutch architects Leijh, Kappelhof, Seckel, van den Dobbelsteen. In this work, the top floor is again converted from the attic of an old house.

Another interesting project is Maxim Zhukov. It roughly combines gray stone, wood and metal. A floating staircase, a simple platform that seems to hang freely above the bed and the correct orientation to the windows make the home study very distinctive.

And this apartment was created in the attic of a former convent, located in Val-d'Ois, north of Paris. A cozy seating area is located above the kitchen and a spacious dining area.

Such an apartment in Toronto is offered by the design firm Buildall Construction. The upper level is represented by a bedroom above a voluminous dressing room.

The balance between dark floors, white walls, glass railings and a floating oak staircase - all this is in the design of the famous American architect Paul Rudolph.

The creative bathtub above the plush bed is presented by the British firm Wells Mackereth. At the same time, the bed, located under the upper tier, is as if in a niche, which undoubtedly adds intimacy to this free and bright room.

The elegant, clean-cut office is ideal for people working from home. Thin railings give more light, as if expanding the boundaries of space and filling the entire room with light and air.

Soft lines, glass railings and again classic combination white and black make this penthouse, presented by London-based design firm Foster & Partners, look like a space station from a science fiction movie.

Another very nice option, in which the kitchen-living room is located downstairs, the bedroom is upstairs, and huge windows serve ideal solution for small space... White walls, giving more light, suit any interior, but they look especially elegant here, in a room with a small footage.

Another version of the bedroom, romantic, the second level of which is presented in the form of a terrace. Beautiful sight glass railings do not interfere from the window.

Transparent fences are easy ideal option for anyone small room... Here, the upper tier is represented by the living area located above the kitchen and dining room.

Combining the warmth of wood and the vigor of greenery, the second tier can contrast sharply with the rest of the room. For such a spectacular decor, you can use both live and artificial plants.

And this is an excellent option for a teenager's room. In such a room, the second level allows you to create a spacious sleeping arealeaving space below for bookshelves and recreation areas.

And another option on how to fit a comfortable free bed in a modest area.

Here's another version of the glass railing duplex apartment, created by Spanish designer Luis Puerta. A great way to expand your home while separating different rooms.

This home, with a dining and kitchen downstairs and a seating area upstairs, has been rebuilt from a chapel in Wiltshire.

"Nothing more" is the motto of Japanese designer Naoko Horib. The second level here is delimited by two internal balconies.

The dining room is downstairs, the library is on the second level, and the bedroom is on the third. Such an excellent solution is feasible, however, only in a room with really very high ceilings.

A spacious bed connected to the main room is almost airy spiral staircase... Bright spots against a white and steel background. All this gives the small apartment a modern, stylish and completely individual look.

Designed by Marc Koehler Architects, this quirky apartment with a library under the stairs has been converted from a former harbor pub in Holland. Very atmospheric!

White space, light kitchen furniture, the bedroom above the snow-white bathroom is another of the options for increasing the room from the Airside design bureau.

An example of an apartment in Gothenburg demonstrates how a second level and a good design can significantly increase your apartment. In this project, you can mark large windows and white walls, which, as we said above, visually expands any space.

The contrast of black and white, a small second level for a seating area (or maybe a small boudoir?), Floating white stairs that grow straight out of thin air, make this bedroom elegant and romantic.

Chic modern designbased on the standard combination of white, wood and metal. Lovely bedroom under a sloping roof. Broken lines and gorgeous accessories. This masterpiece was created in Stockholm.

Thus, having seen so many wonderful, unique and completely different options for two-level apartments, we can conclude that multi-level premises, white color, glass and a lot of natural light are a great way out if you need to expand the space.

The Maison L was designed by Loïc Picquet Architecte in Dijon, Burgundy, France. Its exterior and interior are the embodiment of perfect minimalism. The facade is completely wooden, only the external doors are glass, because they open the house and fill it with a lot of natural light, erasing any boundaries with the surrounding nature.

Another unique feature of this house is its intricate relief and how it influenced the design of the house itself, namely the entrance. Since the two-level house is located on a slope, it can be accessed from both the first and second floors. Therefore, the garage-terrace that you see in the photographs is located next to the entrance of the second floor. Interesting approach, isn't it? As for the interior, it is presented in a minimalist style in white tones.

Among the trees and lush bushes hides quite modern house geometric shapes.


The location of this house is as impressive as its wooden facade.


In fact, this garage is adjacent to the second floor.


Inside, the interior pleases us with its minimal approach and white furniture.


Kitchen furniture is white too! Modern look in the style of minimalism!

The black countertop adds contrast to the interior.

This room looks like a bedroom or a playroom, and yes, it's white too! Instead of curtains, the windows are covered with blinds, and they are located on the back of the window.


A white staircase leads to the second floor. She seems to be hiding in the interior.

In the bathroom, the shower area is decorated with gray tiles.

Gray floor coverings and wooden doors go well with the white interior of the house.

This site is located on the second floor; it serves as a terrace and a garage at the same time.

Unfinished concrete staircase and the landing below gives the house an industrial look.

Metal stair railings are another unique approach.

Notice how the second floor on the back of the house becomes the first.

The section will help you better understand the design of this house.

What do you think about this house? Do you find it interesting? Yes, here you can find some experiments with styles, but, ultimately, it came out very attractive design... And all thanks to the studio Loïc Picquet Architecte, which was able to design a modern and cozy home... Well, what can I say, everyone has a dream home, and this family got it!


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