Clab Architettura Designs Birch Plywood 'Living Machine' for Compact Italian Apartment

Clab Architettura has created an innovative storage and living unit for a small apartment in Peschiera del Garda, Verona. The design studio developed a multi-functional structure they describe as a 'machine for living,' constructed entirely from birch plywood. This large cabinet-like installation incorporates traditional and flip-down doors, integrating a raised sleeping area and a door panel that provides access to the bathroom. The solution was conceived to organize the 30-square-meter dwelling, which was expanded to 35 square meters by cleverly utilizing the space under the stairs for the kitchen, all without relocating existing utilities. To ensure privacy and conceal the bed during daytime hours, the sleeping alcove is screened by a full-height curtain that glides along a ceiling-mounted track. The project was documented by photographer Marco Totè. Clab Architettura was founded in 2014 by Matteo Fiorini, Giulia Salandini, and Andrea Castellani. The studio works across various project scales, from residential to public spaces, and participates in competitions for religious buildings and schools, emphasizing collaboration with local artisans in their work areas.