7 Surprising Living Spaces Transformed from the Unthinkable
Welcome to a journey where the ordinary morphs into the extraordinary, and the seemingly unusable spaces become cozy, inventive homes. When it comes to urban living or just an adventurous redesign, thinking outside the box—or in this case, transforming it—can yield fascinating results. Here, we explore seven stunning examples of unconventional spaces turned into remarkable living areas.
1. Old Water Towers: A High-Rise Home
Turning Tanks into Treasure
Imagine waking up to a panoramic sunrise from hundreds of feet in the air, residing in a former water tower. Across the world, these cylindrical structures are being converted into extravagant homes, complete with circular rooms and modern interiors. These towers, once pivotal in water distribution, now serve as elevated escapes from the mundane, offering breathtaking views and unique architectural elements.
Tip: When transforming such a structure, preserve the original features (like the tank’s iconic shape), to complement modern fixtures and furnishings for a contrast that dazzles.
2. Industrial Silos: From Grain to Grandeur
Circular Charm with Modern Living
Grain silos, the giants of agricultural industry, are being repurposed into bespoke homes. These structures provide a unique circular living space that challenges traditional home design norms. The key to these transformations is in maintaining the integrity of the silo’s shape while outfitting it with contemporary comforts and maximizing space with custom fittings designed to hug every curve.
Tip: Utilize multi-functional furniture that fits snugly into curved walls, ensuring no space is wasted in your silo home.
3. Converted Buses: Wheels to Walls
On-the-Go Living Spaces
With a surge in minimalistic and nomadic lifestyles, buses have driven into the spotlight as mobile homes. These transformative living spaces are rolling examples of maximum utilization of confined spaces. Stripped down and refurbished with compact appliances, fold-down beds, and multipurpose storage solutions, buses offer a dynamic home setup ideal for the adventurous at heart.
Tip: Focus on lightweight, collapsible designs for furniture to maintain ease in mobility and functionality.
4. Firehouses: From Alarms to Charm
Rescuing Buildings with Bold Features
The iconic wide doors, brass poles, and lofty ceilings of old firehouses make them incredibly appealing for residential reconversion. These spaces are perfect for expansive open-plan living, integrating the old elements with new, luxe features for a unique blend of history and modernity.
Actionable Insight: Retain the original brickwork and incorporate contemporary decor to accentuate the building’s historical charm with modern touches.
5. Churches: Sacred Spaces Redefined
Sanctuaries Turned Sanctuary
With towering stained-glass windows and vaulted ceilings, deconsecrated churches present a divine opportunity for conversion into awe-inspiring homes. The openness and historical architecture lend themselves to dramatic, light-filled living spaces, often with ample room for loft additions.
Tip: Emphasize the natural light and maintain the stained-glass windows as focal points in your living space design.
6. Airplane Hangars: Aviation to Innovation
Sky-High Ceilings and Wide Open Spaces
The vast expanse of an airplane hangar provides a unique canvas for creating ambitious living quarters. These hangars can house everything from the actual residence to indoor gardens and even smaller aircraft for enthusiasts. The key to these conversions is creating warmth in a voluminous space, often achieved with layering and sectioning different living areas creatively.
Tip: Use large, bold art pieces and warm, extensive lighting installations to make the large space feel cozier and more connected.
7. Shipping Containers: Compact Cutouts
Cargo Containers to Cozy Corners
In response to a growing need for sustainable and affordable housing, shipping containers have stacked up to the challenge. Their modular design lends perfectly to being transformed into compact, efficient, and stylish living spaces. They can be stacked and combined in various configurations, offering flexibility in design and size.
Tip: Integrate large glass windows or retractable walls to open up the space and reduce the feeling of confinement typical in narrow containers.
Conclusion: Thinking Outside the Box Pays Off
Transforming unconventional spaces into homes not only recycles and preserves significant structures but also champions innovative design and efficiency. Each of these seven surprising living spaces showcases the creative adaptability and adventurous spirit required to turn the unthinkable into unbelievable homes. Whether you’re considering a small space makeover or a large-scale conversion, let these examples inspire you to see potential and possibility everywhere. From water towers to shipping containers, the sky—or rather, the imagination—is truly the limit.
