Acte Deux merges dozen fragmented spaces into one volume
Tucked beneath the roofline of a Parisian residential building, the Sous les Toits apartment by Acte Deux, its name meaning ‘under the rooftops’, brings together a cluster of small, leftover spaces into a single 55-square-meter dwelling. The project consolidates around a dozen previously separated units, former maids’ rooms, storage areas, closets, and even portions of shared circulation spaces into one continuous interior carved out beneath the attic structure.
To achieve this transformation, the renovation required substantial architectural intervention. New openings are introduced to connect the once-isolated rooms, a section of the roof is rebuilt, and the floors are entirely reworked to unify the fragmented plan. The project evolves through a process of experimentation directly on site, where volumes and sightlines are gradually cut and sculpted with precision.
all images by Jean-Baptiste Thiriet
built-in elements shape the interior landscape of Sous les Toits
Within this expansive envelope, custom-built elements define the domestic landscape. Storage, partitions, and furniture are integrated into the architecture itself, their minimal geometry allowing them to blend into an interior palette dominated by white and beige tones.
The project relies heavily on bespoke craftsmanship. Most furniture pieces were designed specifically for the space and produced in collaboration with specialized makers, allowing each element to respond precisely to the irregular geometry of the attic volume.
Against the restrained palette of the apartment, Johanna Lapray and Hugo L’ahelec, the architects at Acte Deux, introduce a measured burst of color through the kitchen design. Its lacquered fronts form a subtle horizon within the otherwise neutral interior, bringing chromatic depth to the space. The cabinetry pays tribute to the painter Ettore Spalletti through its layered color combinations. The panels are framed in stainless steel, referencing a framing technique known as the shadow box. Laser-cut handles are integrated into the fronts, adding a precise graphic detail while maintaining the overall clarity of the composition.
pastel lacquer cabinetry introduces color to the otherwise neutral attic interior
stainless steel frames and laser-cut handles define the custom kitchen cabinetry
built-in storage follows the slope of the attic roof to maximize usable space
natural wood furniture introduces warmth to the restrained palette
a round wooden dining table sits beneath a skylight
built-in shelving transforms the attic wall into a compact home library
integrated wardrobes and shelving follow the geometry of the sloped roof
exposed timber beams contrast with the apartment’s soft neutral palette
skylights puncture the attic roof
skylights bring daylight deep into the space
pink grid tiles wrap the shower area inside the apartment’s bathroom
project info:
project name: Sous Les Toits
architect: Acte Deux | @acte_deux
location: Paris, France
area: 55 square meters
lead architects: Johanna Lapray & Hugo L’ahelec
photographer: Jean-Baptiste Thiriet | @jbthiriet.studio
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