What is a mezzanine and how to choose it?

Competent decoration of an apartment is not only a stylish appearance, but also practicality and comfort. To equip another place for things, you can use the mezzanine. Similar designs have long been used in apartments and houses.

The mezzanine is a separate shelf for things, it is fenced off from the rest of the space with doors. It is usually located under the ceiling and practically does not take up space. This is a practical and convenient option for storing things in a small apartment. Most often it is hung over a door in a narrow aisle. It can often be found in apartments in multi-storey buildings.

The old versions of such shelves looked rude and even ridiculous, but modern models are distinguished by their elegance and accuracy. Old furniture can be properly decorated and given a more attractive appearance.

Being at a high height from the floor, it serves as the basis for the design of a separate area under the ceiling. This technique is called the mezzanine floor.

A modern mezzanine shelf can be made of various materials, as well as have different sizes, shapes and structures. Manufacturers equip models with convenient devices for quickly opening and closing doors.

When choosing a design, many pay special attention to the number of doors. This can be a large two-door model or a compact version with one door. The hinged opening mechanism is very popular. It is comfortable and practical. Doors should open freely without touching walls and other objects.

The number of doors can be any, the main thing is that they do not interfere with the use of furniture and look harmoniously with the general interior.

The second criterion by which the shelves are divided into groups is the placement option. Manufacturers offer single-sided and double-sided models. The first option is more common. When choosing such a mezzanine, access to it will be only from one of the sides. If free space allows, you can install a double-sided shelf.

Corner models should be noted separately. This shape allows you to place shelves at the junction of the walls. Compact, practical and convenient option for rooms of different sizes.

In the production process, both natural and artificial materials are used. Each of the options has its own pros and cons that you need to pay attention to.

Models from wood-based panels are presented in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Also, buyers are attracted by an affordable price. Some models are decorated with glossy film. Additional coating gives the product a neat and sophisticated appearance.

Another advantage is the rich color palette. It will not be difficult to choose the right option for a specific interior. The shelf can be finished from the inside or outside.

The material contains synthetic compounds and impurities, for example, resins. They have an unpleasant odor that will persist for the first time after purchase.Particleboard does not tolerate dampness, moisture and high temperatures poorly. The sheets have voids inside, which can damage them with a strong blow. When self-sawing, the plates deteriorate, forming chips.

Fiberboard shelves are also available in a wide variety of colors and shades. This material is environmentally friendly and safe for health. It boasts strength, resilience and long service life. This characteristic only applies to quality raw materials.

The first disadvantage is the high cost (compared to chipboard furniture).

For the manufacture of furniture yourself, blanks can be purchased at the factory.

Plasterboard products are affordable and lightweight. Such furniture is easy to install. The material tolerates temperature extremes and high humidity without problems.

Despite its durability, it is a brittle material. It must be handled with care so as not to spoil the integrity. Drywall cannot be used as a base for various structures, as it will not carry the load. During installation, you need to use additional logs.

Natural wood is an environmentally friendly material with an original natural pattern. It is easy to process and looks great. Ideal for classic interiors.

High price. Also, the tree is afraid of moisture and dampness. Some varieties crack when exposed to dry and hot air. To protect wood, manufacturers use special compounds.

Some elements can be made of metal. It is a durable material that is perfect for modern interiors.

Mezzanines made of metal structures can be a great addition to a tall cabinet made of the same material.

The mezzanine can have a varied appearance. Some of the most popular options are models made of synthetic material that imitate wood. Wood gives the interior coziness and expressiveness. This is a popular option for many classics, but there is also room for them in modern styles.

Natural material or its imitation can have a different shade (from light tones to dark and saturated) and pattern. It all depends on what grade the shelf is made of or what grade was imitated by the manufacturer.

A universal option is a white mezzanine. It will complement any interior and will not lose its relevance. Light shades give the room lightness and freshness, fill it with light.

Manufacturers use both colorful shades and calm, neutral colors. The color of the shelves can be combined with the overall decor so as not to stand out, or to contrast with it. A colorful mezzanine can be an eye-catching accent.

Metal models are made from rectangular segments and rods connected to each other. This option is perfect for modern interiors. To make the shelf more practical and durable, manufacturers can use an enamel finish.

To make the right choice among the rich assortment, it is necessary to take into account a number of factors.

• The first thing you should pay attention to is the size of the room. Measure to find out the width, length, and height of the room. The mezzanine should fit exactly in size. It is recommended to measure several times.
• The corner model will be a wonderful addition to a compact hallway. It provides additional storage space and does not take up much space. Such a functional solution is also suitable for spacious rooms.
• Consider the look of the furniture. The colors and patterns must be in harmony with the interior, otherwise its integrity will be violated.
• To keep things dust free, opt for closed models. They will be useful for storing clothes or bedding.
• Before buying, determine exactly the place where the mezzanine will be located.
• The mezzanine bracket affects how the doors open. It is necessary to choose the most comfortable option, taking into account the method of placement.

After purchasing a shelf, you need to find a suitable place for it. The most common option is free space under the ceiling above the kitchen door. Also, the ceiling mezzanine will look harmonious over the front door. There is room for a double-sided model in the spacious hallway. The mezzanine can be installed under a regular or stretch ceiling.

Consider the depth of the furniture. Otherwise, it will be inconvenient to put things in and out. It is best to place a shallow model with two doors.

When installing a drywall model, remember that this is a fragile material that will not withstand heavy loads. If you still want to use it, you can make a mezzanine with your own hands. To do this, select a sturdy frame and sheathe it with sheets. This option is perfect for a kitchen, balcony or garage.

When choosing a location, remember that the walls must be strong and reliable. Otherwise, they will not withstand the load. The same requirement is imposed on the base of the mezzanine. The thin bottom can break under the influence of the load.

Basic placement rules:

• the finished shelf must fit entirely into the allotted niche or a place chosen for it;
• when installing, take into account that it does not overlap the light sources, and also does not bulge out and looks neat;
• do not install a large mezzanine in a small room - it may look rough;
• for a harmonious interior, the lower part of the shelf and its facades should be combined with the color of the walls and pieces of furniture in the room;
• if the mezzanine is located in the passage, after its installation there should be enough free space for movement - this recommendation is especially important if tall people live in the house;
• a large number of shelves placed under the ceiling will make the room visually smaller - when decorating a small room, it is recommended to abandon such an idea.

There are many options for how to correctly fit a mezzanine into a residential apartment.

To decorate a small apartment in a stylish and practical way, it is important to use every square meter wisely. For compact storage of things, the mezzanine is perfect. It can be placed in the hallway or corridor. There is also a place for her in the kitchen.

When placed in the hallway, it can be used for shoes or seasonal clothing. The mezzanine can replace the shoe rack, freeing up space in the room.

Such furniture will also come in handy in a children's room. They store toys, clothes, bedding and much more. In this case, the mezzanine can be used as a basis for additional location. This can be an area above the child's sleeping place, which will become a playground. Such design is possible only when using a reliable and durable structure that can withstand heavy loads.

In this part of the house, the mezzanine is rare. A shelf under the ceiling is useful for storing books, documents or other printed materials. When choosing a model for a living room, you need to pay special attention to appearance.It should look harmoniously with the pieces of furniture in the room. If the dimensions allow, a tall cabinet with a mezzanine can be placed in the room.

In the bedroom, the mezzanine is also rarely installed. Designers recommend this option for small spaces.

If the room is spacious and has enough furniture for storing things, then an additional shelf will definitely not be needed.

• On the balcony, the mezzanine can be a replacement for the cabinet. This allows you to unload the room for the equipment of the recreation area.

• In bathroom a shelf under the ceiling plays the role of a cabinet for storing household chemicals.

• If the apartment has a divided bathroom, the compact mezzanine is also useful in the toilet as a place to store paper.

• Mezzanine with two hinged doors. It was placed in a narrow aisle, preserving the maximum space inside the room. The material from which the shelf is made imitates brown wood. A versatile option for living quarters.

• Additional storage space equipped under the ceiling. Two mezzanines were installed in one room. Their color is in harmony with the entrance doors and walls.

• The white mezzanine fits perfectly into the interior of the children's room. Its color is in perfect harmony with the decoration of the room and the rest of the furniture. Light shades make the interior look fresher and more spacious.

• Hinged shelf with sliding doors. A compact and convenient option that is suitable for decorating an entrance hall, bedroom, corridor and other locations. Woodgrain decor looks stylish and attractive.

How to make a mezzanine with your own hands, see below.