The Old Shop Loft by Barak Mizrachi Architects

Once a street shop, this existing 1890’s building has transformed and accommodated many different uses. Barak Mizrachi Architects received the brief to restore the old building and convert its spaces into a compact Loft apartment. The goal – bringing in contemporary elements to complement existing architectural features.

The Concept

The old Shop’s double doors that once opened to the street were long gone. The street façade was restored, with an added new front door and gate facing the street. A new layout was designed to accommodate the living room with a compact kitchen, guest loo and court on the ground floor.

Furthermore, the bedroom with open bathroom was positioned in the existing roof space on the first floor. Industrial details of shutters, a floating bed, vanities and kitchen were introduced to complement the old and new spaces.

Today it’s a beautifully contemporary space – a build where old and new meet graciously and work together – side by side.

About the architects

Barak Mizrachi Architects is a Cape Town based architectural practice established in 2008. The practice engages in multi-faceted projects ranging from high-end private residences, to commercial, residential developments and industrial buildings.

The practice understands the socio-economic climate that exists for various projects and adapts the architectural solutions accordingly. It strives for Architectural continuity but meets the individual needs and identity for each project.

“We pride ourselves as a hands-on Architectural firm and maintain our individual approach aside other respected Architects. Since the inception of the practice, BM Architects has been involved in many Heritage projects and have become specialists in refurbishments, alterations and additions to sensitive Heritage buildings.”