The word 阁楼 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a key spatial concept. 阁 (gé) originally refers to a small, elevated pavilion or a secluded upper chamber, often used for storage or as a private study. 楼 (lóu) means a multi-story building or an upper floor. When combined, the term visually and conceptually layers the idea of a small, attic-like space (阁) that exists within or atop the upper structure of a building (楼), perfectly describing an "attic" or "loft", a secondary, enclosed area just under the roof.