Dachgeschossen

Dachgeschoss is the uppermost level of a building, situated directly under the roof. In German-speaking regions the term can refer to the space beneath the pitched roof regardless of use, whereas Dachboden usually denotes a non-habitable attic used for storage. When the attic is converted into living space, it is called ausgebaute Dachgeschoss (or Dachgeschossausbau) and forms a full or partial extra floor.

Typical features include sloping ceilings, limited headroom, and sometimes dormers or skylights (Dachfenster). Construction often relies on the roof structure and supporting walls; insulation and ventilation are crucial for comfort and energy efficiency. Interior layouts must address headroom variations and stair access.

Usage ranges from private apartments, studios, or home offices to commercial space. Advantages include favorable solar exposure, proximity to roof-level views, and potential increases in usable floor area. Disadvantages include heat loss in poorly insulated roofs, moisture and condensation, and limits on furniture placement due to pitched ceilings.

Regulations vary by country and region but common requirements concern habitable space standards: minimum floor area and ceiling height in parts of the room, daylight and emergency egress, and ventilation. Improvements such as proper insulation, airtight construction, and energy-efficient windows are common in modern Dachgeschossausbau.

Historically, upper floors under gabled or mansard roofs were often used for servants or storage; later, urban housing and renovations transformed Dachgeschosse into desirable living spaces, contributing to housing density and architectural variety.