We were asked to transform a small and narrow guest room, measuring just 2.2 × 1.9 metres, into a home study with space for a substantial library. At the same time, the room needed to remain capable of functioning as a guest bedroom when required.

At first glance, it seemed impossible to combine bookshelves, a desk and chair, and a bed within such a limited footprint.

Our solution was to divide the bed into two elements within the floor plan, creating an armchair and a footstool, with a central gap designed to accommodate the desk chair. By lowering the back of the armchair onto the footstool, the two pieces form a full-size bed. A barn door provided an ideal space-saving solution, while also preserving a view through to the garden from the adjacent kitchen.