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Floor Plan of the Silver Armadillo by Rose Ballard Studio

The Armadillo is parked on a 1,000-square-foot lot that gives the couple ample outdoor space.

“We learned that you don’t have to have a lot of stuff,” says Ballard of their first few months living in a tiny space. “We felt that way previously but if you have quality light and quality living space and a community, that makes a world of difference.”

The second-story studio overlooks oak, maple, and birch trees to the east. The Ypperlig table lamps are by Hay for IKEA, and the desk and floors are made of Viroc, a composite material formed from cement and wood fiber.

Before: The 1930s cottage sat on a .34-acre lot in Berkeley, large for the neighborhood.

Terrazzo flooring lines the foyer, which is flanked by storage (a trunk room on one side and a coat closet on the other).