In a 45 sqm (484 sqft) harbour‑front loft in Amsterdam, Koen Fraijman and Fadime Gökkaya have turned a compact dwelling into a workshop for everyday invention.
Design driven by daily problem‑solving
The couple lived in the modest unit for two years before buying it, and the purchase sparked a cascade of changes that began with a single wish for a dishwasher. “It started with something practical,” Gökkaya said, “but then if we do this, we first need to tackle that, and it grew into a huge project.”
Renovations soon included new kitchen cabinets, a dedicated laundry‑drying zone, and a re‑oriented living area that faces the water. A custom bed frame now houses an integrated mosquito net, while bathroom cabinets were rebuilt to fit the limited footprint.
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What sets the loft apart are the tiny, self‑made solutions that solve specific annoyances. Fraijman rigged the television to a sliding door rail, allowing the screen to disappear flush against the wall and double as artwork when not in use.
A weighted pulley system lifts a single remote between the two storeys, eliminating the need for a second controller. The pair also constructed an extra deck section inside the living area, then partially dismantled it to extend onto the water—a quirky deck that lives both inside and outside.
Playful details that shape daily life
Large, cartoon‑ish light switches replace smart controls, a choice Fraijman defends because “I don’t like to use an app for everything; I like big chunky switches. Especially when you turn them off, they go CLUNK.” The tactile feedback adds a moment of joy to routine tasks.
Other touches include a LEGO castle perched on a hanging entry‑way light, bell‑pepper‑shaped holes in a custom air‑vent cover, an alphabetised spice rack, and a stained‑glass panel inspired by Tetris above the bathroom door. None are essential, yet each reinforces a language of creativity shared by the pair.
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These inventions also make the loft adaptable for gatherings. Fraijman recalled a recent concert where ten guests watched from the lower level and five from the balcony, the dining table pushed aside to become a stage or cinema as needed.
From a practical standpoint, the loft now features a sliding‑rail TV mount, a pulley‑operated remote, a modular deck, and oversized switches. These elements illustrate how a small footprint can accommodate a surprisingly broad range of functions.
Their approach illustrates how hands‑on making can deepen attachment to a space. By confronting the flaws of a new purchase and improving them over time, the owners report a growing appreciation that mass‑produced items rarely inspire. This mindset encourages resilience, especially for renters or first‑time owners who must stretch limited square footage.
