So what is a mezzanine? The most common mezzanine definition is ‘the second floor’, even if it doesn’t represent a floor in the real sense of the word.
The mezzanine area is usually a partial floor, located between the ground level and the first floor.
Mezzanines or mezzanine levels are also low balconies in symphony halls and theaters, the tickets for which usually provide the best view on the stage.
What is a mezzanine? Let’s learn about it
The name originates from the Latin word medianus, meaning ‘of the middle’.
According to the building regulations for mezzanine floors, mezzanines are intermediate floor areas more open towards the lower floor.
They’re usually located halfway between the floors, and have ceilings twice the height of the usual ones. The reason why mezzanine interiors are not perceived as normal floors is that they’re smaller, and they usually have a specific purpose.
According to the International Building Code, mezzanines are allowed to occupy no more than the third, even if that’s not a strict mezzanine design rule. Besides, there can be more than a single mezzanine design ideas applied in a single building.
The difference between mezzanines and floors
Mezzanines have a lot to do with the purpose of the building, and can, therefore, make a noticeable difference. You can find them in a variety of buildings, from old churches to modern manufacturing facilities – building a mezzanine is possible even in buildings where such is not originally planned, as they’re rarely factored into the building’s total square footage.
So, how to build a mezzanine floor in your home, and not a regular upper one? Here is what you need to remember:
25 % of the basic floor’s area is the most you can use for your mezzanine. No other feature can determine the mezzanine as such, so don’t worry whether you’ve made a balcony or a closed-in-area.
The difference that can genuinely matter is the roofline – every tutorial explaining how to build a mezzanine will advise you to keep the roofline identical to the one of the floor, because otherwise, you’ve added a new, separate floor to your space.
Functionality matters
But what does mezzanine mean in the functional sense of the world? How will the existence of a mezzanine at home make our lives easier?
These are good questions, because mezzanines are not a decorative addition, but a practical one.
Most of the time, mezzanines are open areas that support storage, but many people like to prescribe them specific purposes, such as bedrooms, libraries, offices, etc.
It is exactly the dimensions and design of your mezzanine that will determine how you can use it.
Building regulations for mezzanine floors
The building regulations for mezzanine floors are fairly simple, as long as you stick to them rather than your own ideas.
The height of the ceiling. The minimal height of the room where a proper mezzanine is built is 440 cm, the mezzanine taking no less than 210 cm including the ceiling slab.
The floor space. As we already mentioned, the ideal mezzanine floor is 1/3 of the lower floor’s size, expect in cases where the ceiling height surpasses 220 cm. In such cases, the floor of the mezzanine can be half as long as the lower floor one.
Glass floors. If you decided for a glass mezzanine floor, note that the most space you have to work with is 1/8 of the lower floor.
Some essential tips
We all find high-ceiling rooms to be kind of official and impersonal, and are looking for ways to make them more inviting and comfortable. Adding a mezzanine there is a very nice idea, as it will have both an aesthetical and a practical purpose.
Mezzanines can improve you place a lot, but there are more things than the structure that need to be considered. You need to balance between the looks and the purpose, and you need to follow closely to building regulations we mentioned.
Startup tricks you must know before building a mezzanine
Plan it appropriately
Without a plan, you may end up having an unpleasant mezzanine-like structure at home which doesn’t pay off the effort you invested in it.
What happens in most of cases is that you get the size wrong, and create a huge mezzanine with no purpose, or a small ad heaped one.
Before you’ve started think whether you really need a mezzanine, and whether you house can actually afford having one.
Look for a high-ceiling area
High ceilings are critical factors for building a mezzanine that not only looks beautiful, but also adds practical value to your space.
As we pointed out, mezzanines serve as internal platforms and balconies that can cope with every function, as long as they’re built properly.
Work with the space you have
Why would you undergo a costly mezzanine construction process if it requires you to modify your place completely? A solemn wish is not enough, and you have to make sure you’re actually able of accommodating one.
The available space will also narrow the list of available functions of the mezzanine (small ones are usually kept for decorative purposes, while larger ones are practical and working areas).
Whatever your mezzanine plan is, think of the proper enclosure first. Some mezzanines are enclosed with half-walls and balustrades, while others are hidden completely to provide more privacy.
Another thing to consider in advance is the stairs that will lead you there, a decision which once again depends on the mezzanine’s purpose.
A conventional staircase is always the best way to go, because you can benefit of some extra storage space underneath. Needless to say, normal stairs are way easier to use for a frequently visited place.
Define the purpose
Think of the mezzanine’s purpose before you’ve actually created it. Do you need an extra bedroom or a working area? Would a new library be a nice addition to your open-floor concept?
Secondly, make sure you have enough space to put your idea into work, and don’t try to do the impossible. In case the mezzanine doesn’t turn out exactly the way you want it, repurpose it.
Don’t forget the importance of solid soundproofing and clever lighting, as both can be critical to enjoying the space you’ve just created.
Obviously, these will depend on the position and the lower floor’s lighting, but few additional fixtures may improve the ambiance significantly.
Consider apt materials
Once again, the most important aspect of your brand new mezzanine is not how it looks, but what type of function it fulfills.
To start with, it has to be sturdy, so try using metal, concrete, and wood. While it is interesting to use open-feel materials such as transparent glass, you must reinforce those with wooden grills to make sure the mezzanine will last.
Moderate height
Regardless of what you’ve been told, don’t exaggerate with height. 3.0 meters is the maximal safe height that will keep your mezzanine secure and sturdy.
Get creative
The reason why you’re constructing a mezzanine and not an entire extra floor is that you want a visually appealing solution, so make sure you’ve made the most of your creativity, and developed something that will never stop impressing your visitors.
Make the stairs accessible
In mezzanine design, stairs are almost as important as the mezzanine itself. While you’re allowed to experiment with them, make sure they’re safe and sturdy, placed in a good location, and easy to access.
Spiral stairs are always a great idea to save some space.
Modern and unique
Barn design discussions listed the most important and unique structural elements that are both practical and appealing, and work well with every space and style.
What is important here is to understand the difference between original and new, or learning how to combine them for the best effect.
For instance, you can keep your generations-old stone walls and timber roofs, and still add the floating staircase and the glass balustrade alongside. A bit of smart balancing can make it work.
Don’t forget the space above and below
You should have enough ‘above space’ to stand up straight and perform your regular activities, while the below space must also remain functional for moving around. Still, if you have to sacrifice one of the two, go for the later, as it can be transformed into an amazing storage area.
More ideas for saving space
Nowadays, interior design is all about extra storage and saving space, which is why we have a variety of available techniques, materials, and systems which can ‘hide’ our belonging, and still make the room appear ‘free’ and clean.
Still, there are many factors that influence the usability of the space and its storage capacity, barn under-floor heating being the most important one.
A similar heating system will help you keep walls cleaner, and you can also add wall inset fires to protect the floor.
Smart lighting
The fixture choice will depend on the mezzanine’s purpose, but make sure you’ve chosen ones that can be controlled both upstairs and downstairs. Doing so, you will be able to turn off the mezzanine light even when you’re not there.
FAQs about the mezzanine
1. What is a mezzanine and what purpose does it serve in a building?
A mezzanine is a partial floor or intermediate level that is situated between the main levels of a structure. It is usually constructed as an open platform or balcony, providing more usable area. Mezzanines can be used for a number of things, such as to add more storage, provide office space, or act as an observation platform.
2. What are the benefits of adding a mezzanine to a building?
The ability to enhance usable area without requiring an expensive and time-consuming extension or relocation is one of the key advantages of adding a mezzanine to a building. Mezzanines are a flexible and affordable solution for space limitations since they can be tailored to match the unique needs of a company or organization.
3. What materials are commonly used in the construction of mezzanines?
Depending on the particular needs of the project, several materials are employed in the construction of mezzanines. Steel, wood, and aluminum are nevertheless typical materials. Each material has pros and cons, and the choice of material will be influenced by elements including load capacity, durability, and price.
4. What are the weight limitations for a mezzanine, and how are they determined?
The size and design of the structure, the materials used in its construction, and the intended use of the area are only a few of the variables that affect a mezzanine’s weight restrictions. Usually, the weight of the building materials and any equipment or items that will be stored on the mezzanine are utilized to determine the load capacity.
5. What are the safety considerations when designing and constructing a mezzanine?
A mezzanine’s design and construction must take safety into account. Guardrails, handrails, and safety gates are examples of safety measures that can be used to stop falls or accidents. The accessibility, lighting, and ventilation requirements of those who will use the space should all be considered in the mezzanine’s design.
6. How do building codes and regulations affect the design and construction of mezzanines?
Mezzanine design and construction are heavily influenced by building standards and regulations. Safety criteria, load capacity, and other design factors are governed by codes and laws. To protect the building’s residents’ safety and to avoid fines and other consequences for non-compliance, it is imperative to adhere to these codes and laws.
7. How can the use of mezzanines help to increase the usable space in a building?
A building’s useful space can be increased in a number of ways by using mezzanines. They let firms to grow their operations without having to relocate by offering more storage or workspace. Mezzanines are a flexible and affordable solution for space limitations since they may be used to construct office space or other spaces for workers or customers.
8. What are some common applications for mezzanines in industrial and commercial settings?
Mezzanines are frequently utilized to create more storage or workspace in industrial and commercial contexts. To maximize the flow of resources and goods and enhance the useable area, they are frequently utilized in warehouses, manufacturers, and distribution centers. Mezzanines are also employed in retail settings to increase product storage or display space or to expand dining or seating areas in restaurants.
9. How do you determine the cost of constructing a mezzanine?
The size and design of the structure, the materials utilized in its construction, and the project’s labor costs are only a few of the variables that will affect the price of building a mezzanine. It’s crucial to get a thorough quote from a reliable contractor and to account for any supplemental expenses, like licenses or design fees, when figuring out the price. Working with a contractor that can provide precise and thorough cost estimates is vital since the price of a mezzanine can vary significantly depending on the particular requirements of the project.
10. What are some factors to consider when deciding whether to add a mezzanine to an existing building or to include one in the design of a new building?
There are a number of things to take into account when determining whether to add a mezzanine to an existing building or incorporate one into the design of a new one. These include the project’s cost, the building’s available space, the intended use of the area, and the effect on the building’s overall design.
It’s crucial to take into account any zoning or building code limitations that might have an impact on the mezzanine’s design or construction. It is possible to ensure that these aspects are carefully taken into account during the planning and design phase by working with a trained architect or contractor.
Conclusion
Mezzanines are smart and beautiful additions for soaring-ceiling spaces, with versatile functions that extend the visual reach, and make your home look warmer and more inviting.
You can personalize them to the extent of repurposing your place or adding a specific vibe, and use can use tricks such as smart lighting or unique material combinations to make them stand out, and impress people.
Regardless of their purpose, mezzanines need to remain easily accessible and practical, and to follow specific space guidelines.
It is essential that they are well-lit, soundproof, and easy to access (especially when used for a common daily activity).
Of course, you can go a step ahead and employ your creativity to glaze them in, but in cases such as that one you need to be particularly careful with their endurance.
Finally, make them beautiful. Otherwise, they will be nothing but top-heavy structures which intimidate viewers, and occupy space for no reason. Make sure they stand out!