Compact living spaces can seamlessly combine functionality with style and even elements of luxury. Both architects and interior designers firmly believe this. Let’s explore the key principles for arranging such spaces and highlight striking projects that embody the philosophy of mindful minimalism.
Modern designers transform limited square footage into comfortable and ergonomic spaces by using unconventional architectural solutions. For example, London-based Syte Architects revamped the Greville Road Studio by adding a “floating” mezzanine and an integrated storage system, effectively utilizing every centimeter without creating a sense of clutter.
The studio, built in the late 19th century, once served as the workshop of sculptor Willy Soukop. Today, it is owned by artist Ben Pulsford, who has worked there for twenty years. The space, with its seven-meter vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light, inspires creativity and reflection.
Architects focused on preserving the volume during the renovation, designing the mezzanine without solid walls and leaving the tall doors untouched. The staircase not only connects levels but also forms part of the storage system—the steps set the rhythm of the entire composition and function as vertical partitions for displaying artwork and art supplies.
One of the project’s main challenges was transforming the space while adhering to the building’s UNESCO-protected status. Lighting played a crucial role: to maintain the integrity of the vaulted space, glass panels were installed in the mezzanine floor, allowing light to pass through and creating a floating effect.
A well-thought-out layout remains the primary and essential aspect when designing small spaces. Flexibility and mobility are key, with furniture partitions, spot lighting, and lightweight shelving units helping to create a sense of openness.
For example, when renovating a 64-square-meter apartment in Yokohama, the architecture studio Sinato avoided standard room divisions, opting for a unified yet dynamic solution. The central wooden partition in this project serves multiple functions: it conceals storage spaces, shelves, and even a cozy resting spot.
Just behind the wall are the main and guest bedrooms. The kitchen and washbasin are integrated into the common area, rather than being isolated within a traditional closed bathroom. This also encourages natural ventilation, positively affecting the apartment’s microclimate. An area referred to as the “inner terrace” acts as a soft transition between shared and private zones, fostering a sense of freedom.
Light is one of the most powerful tools in designing compact spaces. In the Black Box project by MATA Architects, a small extension to a Victorian house in Islington was conceived as a transformable volume that adapts to the time of day and the owners’ needs.
Despite occupying only 13 m², the architects managed to create a space where privacy is controlled through a dynamic facade system. Two manually operated counterweight shutters allow the level of openness and shading to be adjusted—from a fully glazed facade protected from the summer sun to a tightly enclosed room—all without compromising aesthetics.
In small apartments, every piece of furniture should be both beautiful and practical. Sliding systems, transformable structures, and built-in solutions create ergonomic and visually lightweight interiors.
A bed that turns into a wardrobe, a table folding into the wall—such elements make living spaces convenient and adaptable. Minimalist decor helps prevent a sense of overcrowding: compact chests of drawers, floating shelves, and built-in storage systems maintain order and visually expand the room. For instance, the recent Maison & Objet 2025 exhibition showcased collections of designer furniture and lighting that perfectly complement the concept of small spaces and add variety to them.
Smart use of space is a conscious approach to living. Designing stylish interiors for small apartments and houses helps conserve resources while rethinking traditional notions of comfort—allowing people to enjoy coziness without being bound by square meters.
