Comments
Small Space Solutions: 4 Studios Revamped With Clever Carpentry
Multi-functional carpentry was the key to turning these space-starved units into comfortable, functional homes
Roberta del Vaglio
28 January 2020
These four studios in Milan, Italy, presented similar challenges: The owners wanted all the features of a complete apartment in a small space, and the results had to be not only liveable but stylish. The solutions proposed by these four architects all rested on the inclusion of wooden units that are as attractive as they are multi-functional, acting as sleeping areas, storage, kitchens, and study spaces. Read on to see their four variations on this clever solution.
Bed in a Box
Architects: Fo.Ca Studio
Size About 25 square metres
Budget: €15,000 + €12,000 for the wooden unit
The owners of this studio wanted to make it as welcoming and comfortable as possible, and asked for the bed to be separated from the rest of the living space.
The architect replaced the dated ceramic floor tiles with a warm wood floor and painted the walls white with blocks of turquoise.
Architects: Fo.Ca Studio
Size About 25 square metres
Budget: €15,000 + €12,000 for the wooden unit
The owners of this studio wanted to make it as welcoming and comfortable as possible, and asked for the bed to be separated from the rest of the living space.
The architect replaced the dated ceramic floor tiles with a warm wood floor and painted the walls white with blocks of turquoise.
The kitchen area was custom-made by a carpenter and extends up the entire height of the wall. The appliances have been arranged so as to recede from view: the fridge is recessed into the column on the left, the washing machine was built into a low cabinet, the cooker is a small, almost invisible induction top, and the oven has been swapped out for a built-in microwave.
However, the most significant intervention in the apartment is a box that contains the bed and storage. Sliding doors in translucent plexiglass let in natural light while closing off the box and providing just enough privacy.
See more of this box-in-box studio
However, the most significant intervention in the apartment is a box that contains the bed and storage. Sliding doors in translucent plexiglass let in natural light while closing off the box and providing just enough privacy.
See more of this box-in-box studio
A Full Update and a Birch Bedroom Area
Architects: Plus Ultra Studio
Size: 30 square meters
Budget: €35,000
The architects in charge of this project found themselves faced with a damp, dark and disordered space. The first thing they did was insert a ventilated crawl space, an insulating compartment that separates the floor from the ground.
Two new windows provide better air circulation. The electrical wiring, plumbing and air conditioning systems were also redone.
Architects: Plus Ultra Studio
Size: 30 square meters
Budget: €35,000
The architects in charge of this project found themselves faced with a damp, dark and disordered space. The first thing they did was insert a ventilated crawl space, an insulating compartment that separates the floor from the ground.
Two new windows provide better air circulation. The electrical wiring, plumbing and air conditioning systems were also redone.
The architects put in a wood floor and painted the walls white. However, the heart of the project is the birch structure that contains the sleeping area, which is not completely closed off, allowing air to circulate and light to come in. A more solid partition would have made the space narrower and more rigid.
On a platform inside the structure are a bed, some storage units and a study corner with a desk. The outside of the structure provides more storage and adds a decorative touch to the apartment. Alternating blue and wood compartments add interest.
See more of this urban nest
On a platform inside the structure are a bed, some storage units and a study corner with a desk. The outside of the structure provides more storage and adds a decorative touch to the apartment. Alternating blue and wood compartments add interest.
See more of this urban nest
Faux Mezzanine Makes the Most of Ceiling Height
Architects: 23bassi
Size: 35 square metres
Budget: €15,000
When floor space is limited, the trick is to build up. In this apartment, the original bunk bed was messy and not very functional. The architects were asked to reorganise it, make it brighter and more liveable, and find space for a study area.
Architects: 23bassi
Size: 35 square metres
Budget: €15,000
When floor space is limited, the trick is to build up. In this apartment, the original bunk bed was messy and not very functional. The architects were asked to reorganise it, make it brighter and more liveable, and find space for a study area.
The solution? Take advantage of the height of the space with a wooden built-in structure. This is made up of a staircase that doubles as a storage unit; a double bed; and a large desk that can be used with the bed serving as a seat. Everything is anchored to the wall or a solid wood pillar.
Underneath is a large wardrobe with a mirror on the side and a hammock, which offers extra seating for the living corner.
Other changes make the space cosier: the architects have swapped the old tiles out for bamboo flooring; the white colour scheme brightens the space; and touches of colour, like the turquoise backsplash, enliven the kitchen.
See more of this little ‘island’ house
Underneath is a large wardrobe with a mirror on the side and a hammock, which offers extra seating for the living corner.
Other changes make the space cosier: the architects have swapped the old tiles out for bamboo flooring; the white colour scheme brightens the space; and touches of colour, like the turquoise backsplash, enliven the kitchen.
See more of this little ‘island’ house
The Micro-House That Has It All
Architect: Silvana Citterio
Size: 13.5 square metres, with a small 1.5-square-metre balcony
Budget: The carpentry work cost about €19,000, and the overhaul of the plumbing and wiring cost €10,000
This flat had very little floor area, and presented an unusual obstacle: a tall platform that conceals the utility compartment for the whole building and could not be moved.
Architect: Silvana Citterio
Size: 13.5 square metres, with a small 1.5-square-metre balcony
Budget: The carpentry work cost about €19,000, and the overhaul of the plumbing and wiring cost €10,000
This flat had very little floor area, and presented an unusual obstacle: a tall platform that conceals the utility compartment for the whole building and could not be moved.
This compartment became the starting point for the renovation. The architect decided to actually expand it, turning it into a multifunctional element. The mattress lies directly on top, next to a little breakfast corner. The platform also includes a kitchen, complete with a small dishwasher, oven, under-counter fridge and drawers. A trapdoor reveals a concealed closet.
See more of this mini loft
Tell us
If you enjoyed this story, like it, save it, save the photos and share your thoughts below. Join the conversation.
More on Houzz
Find an architect in Singapore
Read more stories about small spaces
See more of this mini loft
Tell us
If you enjoyed this story, like it, save it, save the photos and share your thoughts below. Join the conversation.
More on Houzz
Find an architect in Singapore
Read more stories about small spaces
Related Stories
Houzz Tours
India Houzz Tour: Warm Wood & Rattan in a Pared-Down Apartment
Pleasing textures and natural materials, plus a nod to travels abroad, have given this home a relaxed, welcoming mood
Full Story
Festive Decorating
Houzz Tour: Scandi Christmas Decorations in a Russian Dacha
The white, green and silver palette of this cosy and simple Christmas scheme echoes the wintry landscape outside
Full Story
Houzz Tours
Mumbai Houzz: An Art Deco Haven for a Family of Four
Geometric forms, copper patinas and smooth archways breathe a bygone era in this flat by SHROFFLEóN
Full Story
Houzz Tours
Houzz Tour: Small Space Living in a Chic Coastal Cottage
By Becky Harris
Thanks to some clever design, this cosy, two-bed cottage can accommodate 12 for weekends by the water
Full Story
Kitchens
The Most Popular Kitchens From Around the World in 2020
By HouzzSG
What kitchens were Houzz users dreaming about this year? A look at the most saved kitchen photos globally.
Full Story
Kitchens
Kitchen Tour: Industrial Style in White, Blue and Brick
A major renovation uncovers an old fireplace that forms a warm focal point in this lively Pittsburgh kitchen
Full Story
Houzz Around The World
Russia Houzz Tour: A Communal Room is Turned Into a Glam Studio
Once a room in a rundown kommunalka, this studio resurrects the elegance of its pre-revolutionary building
Full Story
Landed Homes
Perth Houzz Tour: Singapore Firm Brings Mid-Century House to Life
Perth homeowners commissioned Design Intervention to design the interiors of their dream house
Full Story
Bathrooms
Bathroom Tour: A Melbourne Bathroom That's a Work of Art
Decorative tiles, rounded timber cabinets and secret colours conspire to create a bathroom that is a sight to behold
Full Story
Houzz Around The World
Spain Houzz Tour: The Delicate Renovation of a Village Home
This Spanish home's head-to-toe renovation put a twist on local architectural traditions
Full Story