Contemporary French Studio Emerges from Old Garage

A simple garage located in the middle of an alley in Southern France has been transformed into an unlikely and elegant residence. Designed by <a href="http://www.fabredemarien.com/" target="_blank">FABRE/deMARIEN architectes</a>, the remarkable renovation subtly squezes a very livable space into what was more or less a couple of walls and a roof connecting two properties. The humble exterior now shelters a contemporary, clean, and highly functional living space.

The conversion features a new façade and a series of rolling doors and window shutters that<a href="http://inhabitat.com/the-safe-house-is-a-transforming-fortress-of-sustainable-solitude/"> hide</a> the patio, which is encased in glass.

The simple shed roof creates an ideal space for the architects to play with a centralized box that serves all the functions of the home.

Natural light now penetrates deep into the converted space thanks to tall windows and a skylight set in the back.

Built-in seating and an office desk help delineate space in the open room.

Tucked inside the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/minimalist-adobe-brick-home-is-a-box-within-a-box/">stand-alone box</a> is a bathroom that shares space with the utilities, closet and washing machine.

A ladder provides access to the small sleeping loft above -- watch your head please.