SMALL SPACES, BIG IDEAS
CREATIVE DESIGNERS ARE FINDING SOLUTIONS FOR HOMES WITH THE TINIEST OF FOOTPRINTS – AND THEY CAN BE USED IN ANY SPACE
FEATURE Hugh Metcalf
1INTO THE LIGHT
In this NY apartment shown above with low natural light, architect Martin Hopp took a different approach in creating a lighting scheme. ‘Lighting is hidden within the built-in elements and reinforces the feeling of natural light. Lighting has such a strong impact on wellbeing that we really emphasised its integration.’ Martin Hopp, founder, Martin Hopp Architect
2 PUBLIC/PRIVATE
In a stylish micro apartment in Sydney, architect Brad Swartz used a clever sliding panel that conceals either the kitchen or the bedroom, depending on where it is positioned. ‘For me it’s about trying to create a divide between public and private spaces (sleeping/bathroom and living) similar to what you would find in a much larger apartment. That might be a big sliding door that hides the bed or a tiny room designed around the size of a bed.’ Brad Swartz, architect and founder, Brad Swartz Architects
3DO-IT-ALL PIECES
Micro apartments can often rely on gadgets more than design to make them work as efficiently as possible. Architect Douglas Wan created his Fitzroy micro apartment project around a simple but ingenious platform that acts as a bed, table, chair and more for the space. ‘I don’t think I’d have the discipline to fold up the Murphy bed every day and then move furniture around in the morning so there isn’t empty space where the bed was, or hang five chairs on the wall that are disguised as artwork.’ Douglas Wan, co-founder, WHDA
4HIDDEN VOLUMES
The one-wall kitchen of a Cairo studio apartment by Agius Scorpo Architects is hidden behind a large swinging door which, when opened, transforms into a two-wall layout. Beyond, a bedroom with raised platform bed with a storage area underneath makes extra use of the space. ‘I approached the seemingly absurd notion of adding rooms to the tiny plan. Reconsidering the task of walls and doors permitted these additions.’ Nic Agius, architect and co-founder, Agius Scorpo Architects
5TAKE IT VERTICAL
Faced with a limited 23-metre-square floor plan, Taiwan-based architecture and interior design studio NestSpace Design decided to look upwards to make the most of the space in this compact property. ‘The layout developed from horizontal and ended up vertical. The bedroom is on the mezzanine level, while a study area is recessed beneath it. The staircase was also integrated with a storage role to showcase the owners’ CD collection.’ Jun-Cheng Yeh, architect, NestSpace Design
