How 2 Hong Kong flats became 1, with Zen vibes and versatile spaces

Architect Patrick Lam of Sim-Plex Design Studio undertook a transformative renovation of a 492-square-foot apartment on Lantau Island, Hong Kong, converting a cluttered two-bedroom into a functional, flexible four-bedroom space for a young family. Inspired by his experience living in compact tenements, Lam focused on maximizing small living areas by integrating smart technology, concealed storage, and principles of feng shui. The project aimed to create a sense of airiness while accommodating the family's needs, including frequent overnight visits from the grandmother. The renovation began with a strategic reconfiguration of the apartment's layout. The old kitchen, previously cramped and inefficient, was converted into additional sleeping quarters. A new open kitchen was seamlessly integrated into the living area, creating a more spacious and interconnected central living space. To address the need for privacy and flexibility, folding doors were installed, allowing the living room to be easily privatized for guests, particularly the grandmother. This adaptable design ensured that the small footprint could serve multiple functions as required. A key design philosophy for Lam was to highlight the apartment’s prime Coastal Skyline location, which offers rare views of lush, green hills. To integrate the exterior landscape with the interior, he opted for natural materials and light color palettes, diverging from the often-futuristic aesthetic associated with high-tech designs. Pale maple and light gray wood veneers were extensively used for custom melamine joinery, covering most surfaces and contributing to a bright, warm ambiance. The remaining walls and ceilings were painted with white, moisture-resistant paint, intentionally avoiding dark colors that would visually shrink the space and ensuring a cohesive, luminous environment. Beyond visual illusions, tangible space was created through innovative construction. Raised platforms replaced traditional flooring, incorporating trapdoor-like panels that lift to reveal hidden compartments. These areas effectively store books, household items, and toys, eliminating clutter. One section of the platform was ingeniously designed to rise and form a coffee table, catering to tea ceremonies and casual dining in front of the television. Other hidden features included a pull-out drawer that transforms into a vanity and benches that fit snugly beneath a quartz dining table, maximizing utility without sacrificing aesthetics. The apartment also boasts intelligent, voice-activated features, including controls for lights, curtains, temperature, and door locks. These modern conveniences were deliberately concealed to align with the clients' desire to adhere to feng shui principles. Lam demonstrated that smart technology and traditional feng shui, though seemingly contradictory, could be compatible when applied thoughtfully. To maintain spiritual balance, the entertainment unit was designed with complete symmetry, and bay windows were framed in wood to prevent exposed beams from being above beds, a common feng shui concern. The final design achieves a harmonious blend of zen aesthetics and smart amenities, showcasing a skillful integration of modern functionality with ancient wisdom. #HongKongApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #FengShui #InteriorRenovation #CompactLiving #FlexibleLayout #HiddenStorage #NaturalMaterials

Sim-Plex Design Studio, led by architect Patrick Lam, completed a renovation project in Hong Kong for a young family, transforming a small apartment into a flexible, four-bedroom home that integrates high-tech functionality with Zen philosophy. Lam's architectural approach stems from his experience living in small spaces, leading him to focus on expanding limited spatial possibilities. The project, named "Smart Zendo," is located in Tung Chung on Lantau Island, offering views of the surrounding hills, and draws its name from a Zen meditation space. The design harmoniously blends Zen and Feng Shui principles with adaptable, high-tech features to accommodate the evolving needs of family life. Lam asserts that this project challenges the conventional notion that smart homes must have a futuristic aesthetic, demonstrating that they can be poetic and responsive to natural surroundings, fostering a spiritual space where tradition, technology, people, and scenery coalesce. The clients, Eric and Lory, who moved from Taiwan, desired a home that could serve as a refuge from their busy lives and adapt to different living arrangements, including frequent visits from family members and the presence of a live-in maid. Their initial two-room apartment, which housed them, their son, and storage, was reconfigured to meet these demands. Lam's solution involved reconfiguring the apartment into a three-bedroom layout with an optional fourth bedroom in the living room. Natural materials like plywood and timber veneer clad surfaces, concealing numerous smart features such as voice-activated synthesizers, lighting and air-conditioning controls, curtain mechanisms, a retractable coffee table, projection screens, and smart door locks. Lam's interpretation of a "smart" home is entirely client-driven, allowing spaces to transform based on daily needs. The living room was elevated on a wooden platform, providing extensive underfloor storage. A section of this platform houses a high-tech coffee table that can be raised for tea ceremonies and social gatherings or lowered flush with the floor to create a lounge or play area for their son. Further enhancing functionality, a gray, timber-veneer TV cabinet spans almost an entire living room wall. This cabinet incorporates display nooks for treasured items, designed according to Feng Shui principles with a symmetrical form reminiscent of the Chinese character for "wood." It also conceals a folding timber partition, which can be deployed to create an additional bedroom for guests. Louvres at the top of the partition ensure ventilation, while embossed strip glass allows natural light to penetrate while maintaining privacy. An open-plan kitchen was introduced adjacent to the living space, and the original kitchen was repurposed into a maid's room and storage area. The quartz dining bench and timber benches feature built-in storage to maintain a clutter-free environment. Other intelligent design elements include a timber platform in the son's bedroom, which provides hidden storage and serves as seating for a desk, and a concealed make-up table in the master bedroom. Large timber-frame windows throughout the apartment maximize natural light and frame views of the surrounding hills, evoking the clients' cherished memories of homestay vacations in the Taiwanese countryside. The bathroom, inspired by boutique hotel aesthetics, features white marble tiles to reflect light from its single window, while cabinets are crafted from melamine ecological waterproof board, echoing the timber elements used elsewhere. This apartment embodies a blend of Zen spirituality, traditional Feng Shui, and smart technologies, seamlessly integrating home with nature and offering a flexible, adaptable living experience. #SmartHome #HongKong #SmallSpaces #ZenDesign #FlexibleLiving #TransformableSpace #HighTechInteriors #FengShui #ArchitecturalRenovation

Kwang Wei Long and Yong Si Yun, a recently-married couple, transformed their 1,249 sq ft four-room HDB resale flat in Bishan into a Japanese-inspired sanctuary. While they had never vacationed in Japan together, their shared appreciation for Japanese culture and Si Yun's prior study of the language led them to infuse their home with elements reminiscent of the country. Their primary goal was to create a tranquil space for relaxation, drawing inspiration from the serene courtyards and gardens found in Japanese temples, and the way modern and historic elements are harmoniously blended in Japanese design. This vision was communicated to their interior design firm, Chalk Architects. The original flat presented several layout challenges, including an unusual balcony placement and an L-shaped living room, which felt dim due to a previous owner's addition of a bedroom. Despite this, the couple opted to preserve the apartment's original dusty-pink broken marble floor, finding its tones appealing. To enhance light and spaciousness, they removed the former study room wall, integrating it into a larger living room. A raised blond wood platform was installed near the entrance, accompanied by a built-in study desk facing the window. This area serves dual purposes: a dedicated workspace and a home yoga studio, complete with a wall-to-ceiling mirror. Further alterations included the removal of walls separating the dining room from the kitchen and the third bedroom, as well as the wall between the master bedroom and an adjoining bedroom. These structural changes were crucial for incorporating shoji screens, a traditional Japanese design element. The couple admired the aesthetic of these latticed wooden screen doors and their ability to flexibly open or segregate indoor spaces. Addressing concerns about Singapore's humid climate affecting traditional paper panels, the interior designer utilized glass-paneled lattice sliding doors for the dining, kitchen, and third bedroom areas. These doors allow light to permeate while maintaining distinct zones, and when fully opened, they create an expansive living and dining area. Similarly, the wooden sliding doors for the master bedroom and its adjoining bedroom, as well as the master bedroom's wardrobe doors, were designed to mimic shoji screens, using white wood instead of paper. These elements contribute to a quiet, meditative atmosphere, offering a versatile space that can also function as a work area, providing a visually appealing backdrop for virtual meetings. The designers ensured the shoji screen tracks were installed on the ceiling to prevent damage to the existing floor. The living room's accent wall also features a shoji-inspired panel design, complementing the natural light filtering through sheer curtains during the day and the inviting glow of cove lighting and pendant lamps after dark. The apartment's color scheme and furnishings reflect a minimalist Japandi aesthetic, blending Japanese and Scandinavian design principles. Blond wood, white tones, and pale grey soft furnishings create a calm environment, contrasted by the dusty-pink floor. Decorative items, such as a Japanese-inspired artwork sourced from Etsy and rustic earthenware, along with furniture like the L-shaped sofa, coffee table, and rug, were carefully chosen for their minimalist sensibilities and to fit the overall aesthetic. The couple prioritized hidden storage solutions, opting for a queen-sized platform bed, a flip-top desk, and an L-shaped sofa with integrated storage to maintain a clean and uncluttered look. For entertaining, the couple's large, rectangular kitchen island, fitted with castors, can be moved to extend the dining table, effectively doubling the seating capacity from five to ten. This flexible arrangement accommodates both small and large gatherings, fostering a communal atmosphere. Friends and family have positively received the home's clean, warm, and bright aesthetics, often remarking on the efficient storage solutions, which some visitors plan to incorporate into their own home designs. While the couple still anticipates a trip to Japan, their thoughtfully designed HDB flat provides a cherished space for living and working, bringing a slice of their favorite holiday destination into their daily lives. The project was part of CNA Lifestyle’s "Making Room" series, which highlights transformations of small homes. #JapaneseInteriorDesign #HDBRenovation #ShojiScreens #HomeTransformation #MinimalistDesign #JapandiAesthetic #SmallHomeSolutions #InteriorDesign #FlexibleLivingSpaces

Architects Michael Chen and Kari Anderson of Normal Projects undertook a renovation project transforming two separate pre-war apartments into a single, cohesive, and sustainable living unit for an environmentally conscious couple and their young children. The design prioritized ecological soundness in materials and aimed to foster a sustainable lifestyle through innovative architectural solutions. During the demolition phase, all discarded materials were either reclaimed or recycled, underscoring a commitment to sustainability from the project's inception. A key feature of the redesigned apartment is its flexible floor plan, achieved through the implementation of custom sliding panels. These adjustable walls allow residents to adapt the living space for varying needs, providing options for both privacy and openness. This adaptability also facilitates optimal transmission of natural light and airflow throughout the home. The enhanced natural ventilation is designed to allow the family to endure New York summers without relying heavily on air conditioning, significantly reducing electricity consumption and thus the home's environmental footprint. Material selection was another critical aspect of the sustainable design. A substantial portion of the custom cabinetry, including kitchen volumes and storage elements, was crafted from local walnut and strand woven bamboo. These materials were chosen not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their ecological credentials, reflecting the homeowners' desire for an environmentally responsible living space. In terms of lighting, the apartment incorporates affordable and energy-efficient fluorescent light strips. These lights are strategically placed within small coves, cabinetry pockets, and other areas where their reflection off resin panels creates a warm and inviting ambiance. This lighting choice contributes to energy efficiency without compromising on the desired atmosphere within the home. The expansive and adaptable floor plan offers significant versatility. It can be configured to create a loft-like open space across the entire unit, fostering a sense of community and connectivity among family members. Alternatively, the sliding walls enable the home to be divided into separate sections, providing distinct private areas for parents and children, with the kitchen serving as a central, connecting space. This flexible layout is central to the home's sustainable design, allowing it to evolve with the family's needs while maintaining its energy-efficient characteristics. Michael Chen has since established his own firm, Michael K. Chen Architecture, which specializes in micro housing, continuing his work in innovative and adaptable living spaces. #SustainableHome #PreWarApartments #FlexibleDesign #SlidingWalls #MichaelChenArchitecture #NormalProjects #GreenLiving #EnergyEfficient #NYCRealEstate

This article highlights the Singapore apartment, The Rasidence, a spacious, Zen-like interior designed by Alex Liu of Right Angle Studio. The 1,570 sq ft duplex apartment, located in the Bishan neighbourhood, showcases a harmonious blend of Scandinavian and Japanese design principles, creating a calm and cocooning urban sanctuary. Liu's approach defies the common pitfalls faced by designers creating their own homes, demonstrating a disciplined serenity throughout the project. The exterior of the apartment block is nondescript, offering no hint of the refined interiors within. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment features an artful mix of design elements, including Fritz Hansen 'Grand Prix' dining chairs, a 'Cuba' chair by Carl Hansen & Son, and an oversized marble and limestone fruit bowl by John Pawson for When Objects Work. These pieces are strategically placed to enhance the apartment's serene atmosphere. Further enhancing the Zen aesthetic, low-slung futon beds and deeply set couch benches are framed by translucent sliding shoji doors and windows crafted from solid ash. These open to views of green treetops, integrating nature into the living space. A standout feature is an air-well that extends through the second floor, complemented by a faux skylight and a Japanese maple, creating a light-washed, tropical Japanese fantasy. The material palette further supports the apartment's concept, utilizing oak laminate for all joinery work, porcelain tiled floors, sintered stone for the kitchen countertop, and travertine and stucco for walls and display niches. These materials contribute to the overall tactile and visual tranquility of the space. The project was not without its challenges, particularly the wall area behind the dining room, which required nine reworkings. Liu explained that initial drafts restricted spatial flow, leading to the reorientation of the staircase. This adjustment allowed for the integration of a display pantry with the physical wall, optimizing movement within the apartment. The staircase reorientation also posed a new problem: its original landing directly in the dining room. Through multiple on-site experiments and simulations, the team concealed the last two steps within a raised bench, enhancing traffic flow in the confined space. This meticulous problem-solving approach is characteristic of Right Angle Studio, founded by Alex Liu and his brother Jay in 2012. The studio’s diverse portfolio includes residential homes, a bakery cafe, a jewellery atelier, and a public reading room, each project reflecting the same bespoke and quietly satisfying design philosophy evident in The Rasidence apartment. #SingaporeApartment #ZenDesign #RightAngleStudio #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ScandinavianJapanese #DuplexApartment #AlexLiu #UrbanHaven

HAMS and Studio undertook the renovation of an apartment situated in the suburbs of Tokyo, Japan, with the intention of transforming it into a flexible living environment tailored for a working couple. The project, titled 'One Nuance,' aimed to deviate from the apartment's original rigid grid plan by introducing subtle variations in spatial composition, color, and material finishes. This strategic approach sought to create an adaptable living space that could accommodate a diverse range of activities and lifestyles. The design process commenced by addressing the existing layout, which notably featured a corner-room configuration. The primary intervention involved the elimination of traditional corridors, a common feature in many apartments that can fragment spaces and limit natural light. In their place, smaller, more versatile rooms were arranged along the exterior walls. This reorientation served to maximize natural light penetration and foster a brighter, more open ambiance throughout the apartment, significantly enhancing the overall sense of spaciousness. A central element of the redesigned apartment is the living room, conceived as an open and fluid zone. This open-plan living area establishes direct connections with the surrounding smaller rooms, promoting an interactive and relaxed atmosphere. A distinctive feature of the renovation is the implementation of a 'double-opening' design. This innovative system comprises 'outer openings' that are strategically positioned to draw natural light deeper into the interior spaces. Complementing these, 'inner openings' are integrated into the internal partitions, serving to frame and visually connect various living activities happening within the apartment, thereby creating a continuous and expansive internal vista. The aesthetic and functional versatility of the apartment is further elaborated through the nuanced design of the internal facades. The appearance of these facades is intentionally varied, contingent upon the specific purpose of each adjoining smaller room and the type of partition employed. This thoughtful differentiation generates a series of unique 'viewports' throughout the home, adding visual interest and spatial depth. For instance, robust plastering was selected for the internal walls, providing a textured and durable surface. In contrast, glossy solid finishes were applied to the passages leading to the living room, contributing to a sense of fluidity and light reflection. The selection of materials and finishes, characterized by subtle textures and a cohesive color palette, was critical in establishing the apartment's dynamic and harmonious environment. The objective was to ensure that while individual spaces retained their distinct character, they collectively formed a unified and aesthetically pleasing whole. This attention to detail in material application and color scheme reinforces the project's 'One Nuance' concept, where slight variations contribute to a richer and more adaptable living experience for the inhabitants. The renovation successfully transforms a standard suburban apartment into a sophisticated and highly functional dwelling, ready to meet the evolving needs of its occupants. #ApartmentRenovation #TokyoArchitecture #FlexibleLiving #InteriorDesign #SpatialComposition #HAMSandStudio #ResidentialArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving

A frequent-flying couple with a preference for Japanese design sought to create a Zen-inspired pied-à-terre in Hong Kong. Interior architecture company In Situ & Partners was tasked with transforming a 2,000 sq ft Mid-Levels apartment, which offered open views of the harbour and the city. The project began with a complete gutting of the apartment, leaving only structural elements, to allow for a flexible new layout. The original four-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with helper’s quarters was deemed unnecessary for a couple without children. This presented an opportunity to reconfigure the space to meet their specific desires, which included a traditional tatami room, a dedicated tea pantry, and an onsen, reflecting their appreciation for Japanese culture and relaxation. In Situ & Partners adopted a “less is more” philosophy, aligning with the couple’s request for a minimalist aesthetic and a high degree of privacy. The design concept emphasized clean lines, natural materials, and a neutral colour palette throughout the apartment. To maintain an uninterrupted visual flow and streamlined appearance, elements such as door handles and light switches were meticulously integrated into walls paneled with light oak joinery, ensuring they were concealed or blended seamlessly with the surroundings. #HongKongApartment #JapaneseDesign #ZenInspired #InSituAndPartners #MinimalistInterior #TatamiRoom #OnsenDesign #NeutralPalette #NaturalMaterials

The article details Sim-Plex founder Patrick Lam's approach to designing a 500-square-foot house in Coastal Skyline, Hong Kong, for a young couple who travel frequently and have a young son. The design challenge was to incorporate space for a grandmother who watches the son and a live-in maid, which the original two-bedroom house lacked. Lam's design philosophy for this project uniquely combined ancient traditions of Zen and Feng Shui with modern smart home technology. Initially, the old kitchen was repurposed to create storage and a cleaning area. In the living room, Lam integrated a cabinet with sliding louvered doors, designed for ventilation, which could create a separate, private space for the grandmother when needed. This thoughtful spatial rearrangement addressed the immediate need for additional sleeping quarters without compromising the overall flow or openness of the living space. A central feature of the living room is a wooden platform that spans the entire area. This platform incorporates independent corners that can be elevated or kept level, offering flexible functionality. A concealed coffee table is also integrated into this design. Lam emphasizes that the spirit of Zen, which focuses on the pursuit of harmony, guided these design choices, aiming to create a serene and adaptable living environment. The kitchen was designed as an open-concept space, featuring a quartz stone high-top dining table and two arc-angle storage chairs. This setup allows residents to enjoy the exterior scenery while cooking or dining, fostering a connection between the home and nature. Pendants from PLC Lighting hang over the kitchen island, complementing custom stools made of plywood with an ecological melamine board finish. The client's deep study of Feng Shui significantly influenced the living room's layout. Lam ensured a symmetrical arrangement for the TV storage cabinet wall. To balance the energy and functionality, a large television in the living room is complemented by a smaller TV positioned on the dining table. The integration of smart technology is cleverly hidden behind maple veneer, including voice-activated synthesizers, various lamp systems, air-conditioning switches, curtain controls, and electronic door locks. Lam noted that while traditional Feng Shui aesthetics and smart technology might seem contradictory, they can be harmoniously integrated when applied properly. Further functional spaces include a bathroom equipped with fixtures from Toto, and the son’s bedroom which features a custom built-in desk and storage unit, also constructed from plywood with an ecological melamine board finish. The former kitchen was ingeniously transformed into the maid’s room, furnished with seating from Muji. The project demonstrates a successful blend of traditional aesthetic principles, practical space-saving solutions, and contemporary technological conveniences within a compact urban dwelling. #SmartHome #FengShui #ZenDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #HongKong #InteriorDesign #MultiFunctionalFurniture #HomeAutomation #RenovationProject

In Situ & Partners, an international architectural and interior design firm, developed a sophisticated pied-à-terre in Hong Kong Central, featuring panoramic city views. The project integrates Japanese design principles with contemporary elegance, emphasizing a minimalist aesthetic. Yacine Bensalem, Principal at In Situ & Partners, highlighted that the "less is more" philosophy of Japanese design guided the project, resulting in a space defined by clean lines, natural materials, and a calming neutral color palette. The 2000-square-foot apartment offers a tranquil atmosphere from the moment of entry. The residence's primary living area is an expansive T-shaped space, thoughtfully divided into a dining room, living room, and a traditional tatami tea room. This layout facilitates distinct functional zones while maintaining an open feel. Light parquet flooring and warm wood cabinetry establish a cohesive backdrop, complemented by European design objects. To introduce fluidity, a custom rug with a wavy pattern, evoking Zen garden sand designs, was incorporated. All technological components are discreetly concealed within the ceiling to maintain an uncluttered aesthetic. Bensalem expressed appreciation for the interior's elegant rigor, noting its simplicity and strong connection to nature. Each element is harmoniously integrated to uphold the home’s aesthetic coherence. Adjacent to the living area, a studio space separated by a glass and wood screen provides a communal desk with city views, continuing the theme of natural elements. The kitchen features sleek, custom-made cabinetry in matte lacquer, aligning with the apartment's overall minimalist design. The primary bedroom is designed as a sanctuary, utilizing soft textiles and tranquil colors. Adhering to feng shui principles, a Japanese landscape silk painting is displayed above a custom-made fabric headboard, and the window ledge is upholstered in brown leather. The en-suite his and hers walk-in closets feature checkered glass doors and traditional washi paper accents, adding a refined touch. A highlight of the residence is the authentic Japanese-style primary bathroom, which features original fixtures and materials. A circular bathtub, crafted by Japanese artisans, is the focal point, surrounded by fragrant wood fluted panels and Italian Ceppo di Gre stone. This design element underscores the blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern luxurious materials, creating a unique and serene bathing experience. The overall design prioritizes harmony, functionality, and a seamless integration of cultural influences. #JapaneseDesign #HongKongApartment #PiedATerre #MinimalistInterior #InSituAndPartners #TatamiTeaRoom #ZenGardenInspired #NaturalMaterials #FengShui

The Smart Zendo apartment in Hong Kong, designed by Sim-Plex Design Studio, exemplifies innovative solutions for compact urban living, blending clever storage with smart technology and flexible spaces. This 492-square-foot residence caters to a busy young couple, their son, and accommodates a grandmother for occasional stays, addressing the needs of modern urban dwellers who frequently travel. Central to the apartment's design is its multi-functional living room. A raised wooden platform not only defines the space but also conceals substantial storage beneath. When the panels are closed, the room transforms into an expansive, open area, offering versatility for various activities. Integrated into this platform is a lifting table, adaptable for use as a coffee table, for traditional tea ceremonies, or for informal dining. This modularity allows the living area to shift between different functions seamlessly, maximizing its utility in a small footprint. Smart technology is woven throughout the apartment, enhancing convenience and efficiency. The home features voice-activated systems for controlling lighting and air conditioning, automated curtains, projection screens, and electronic door locks. These technological integrations streamline daily routines and contribute to a modern living experience. The design also incorporates principles of Feng Shui, focusing on balanced layouts and the integration of the five elements to create a harmonious environment. The 'wood' element is represented through the use of maple veneer on a prominent storage cabinet wall, adding natural warmth and texture to the interior. Flexibility is a key aspect of the apartment, particularly in accommodating the grandmother. The living room can be reconfigured with slide-folding doors to create a private partitioned space. These doors are designed with louvers for ventilation and glass panels, ensuring that natural light can still penetrate the kitchen area even when the living room is sectioned off. This adaptable design allows for privacy without sacrificing light or air circulation. The son's bedroom similarly utilizes space-saving strategies with a raised platform. This platform elevates the bed, providing ample storage underneath, and doubles as a seating area when not in use as a bed. This approach optimizes the room's functionality, ensuring that even compact bedrooms offer both comfort and practical storage solutions. The primary bedroom also features extensive built-in storage, including a discreet vanity that slides out from within the cabinetry, further demonstrating the apartment's commitment to maximizing every inch of available space. The overall design emphasizes efficient space utilization, technological sophistication, and a calm, zen-like aesthetic that complements the surrounding landscape, providing a serene retreat for its inhabitants. #HongKongApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #SmartHome #FlexibleLiving #StorageSolutions #FengShui #InteriorDesign #UrbanLiving #MultiFunctionalFurniture

Design Eight Five Two (DEFT), a local architecture and design studio, has completed the overhaul of Flat 27A, a 51-square-metre apartment in Hong Kong's Kowloon Bay area. The project aimed to maximize the limited space for a photographer and his pet cat through the implementation of adjustable furniture and sliding walls. The client desired a flexible living arrangement that could adapt to his solitary moments and social gatherings. The studio addressed the challenges of micro-apartments common in Hong Kong, where space is a premium. The apartment's previous layout, which included two cramped bedrooms, was transformed by merging the bedrooms with the lounge to create a more open and adaptable living area. This approach focused on providing a subtle sense of magic, pleasure, comfort, simplicity, ease, and efficiency. Key design elements include a sofa with a pull-out seat that conceals storage, and sliding partitions that hide shelves and the bedroom. Various concealed storage units are integrated throughout the apartment to house a coffee machine, wine bottles, camera equipment, and spare furniture. The design thoughtfully caters to the client's interests and lifestyle, particularly his passion for photography and travel, evident in the extensive hidden storage for his massive library. A custom-built dining table on casters offers versatility, allowing for easy repositioning and expansion to accommodate up to 10 guests. The design also considers the client's pet, featuring a pop-hole in a wooden storage unit for the owner's white cat and a cleverly concealed cat toilet beneath the bathroom sink. The renovation showcases how intelligent design can transform small living spaces into highly functional, adaptable, and comfortable homes. The project emphasizes innovative solutions for urban living where space is a significant constraint, providing both privacy and openness as needed. #HongKongApartment #SpaceSavingFurniture #SlidingWalls #MicroApartment #InteriorDesign #FlexibleLiving #DEFTDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #UrbanLiving

The article details the design philosophy and interior of "The Ochre Home," the residence of artist and freelance stylist Geraldine Toh and her husband, Vincent Lim. The name "Ochre Home" was chosen by Ms. Toh to reflect the predominant color palette and earthy sensibility of their space, which primarily features shades of brown, yellow, and orange, reminiscent of the natural clay pigment. As an artist, Ms. Toh often uses ochre in her paintings, further solidifying its significance to her home's aesthetic. The home's style is described as mid-century modern inspired with an eclectic mix. Ms. Toh, who studied fine arts, showcases a keen eye for color, proportion, and design. The couple selected a 30-year-old apartment for its spaciousness, airiness, and square layout, which simplified space planning. Key layout modifications included removing a kitchen wall to create an open entrance, repositioning the common bathroom door for discretion, and moving the master bedroom door to facilitate an open-concept walk-in wardrobe. The initial impression upon entering the apartment is one of expansive open space. A central tenet of Ms. Toh's design approach is the belief that furnishing a home should be a gradual process, allowing for the collection of unique pieces with personal stories. She views her home as "forever a work in progress," emphasizing modularity and movability to allow for frequent rearrangements and to maintain visual interest. She favors eclecticism over perfectly matched sets, choosing standalone pieces that complement the overall color scheme and texture, ensuring that new additions enhance rather than disrupt the aesthetic. This approach creates pockets and corners with distinct functionalities within the larger open space. Throughout The Ochre Home, visual interest is evident in various details. Ms. Toh painted a mural of a flower on one wall, and customisable fabric outer jackets on the Toshiba Haori air-conditioning units blend seamlessly with the interiors. The couple dedicated time to assembling their furniture, often thrifting pieces or carefully selecting others for their historical significance and narrative. For instance, their Commune leather sofa was acquired from an expatriate family, and their stackable dining chairs are vintage 1980s Casala Obo Formsitz pieces sourced from AA Furniture, specializing in vintage Japanese furniture. The study area, carved out from the main living space without walls, features a 1960s Danish kidney-bean-shaped desk from local store Noden. Lighting fixtures also hold historical value, such as a vintage 1970s Louis Poulsen Panthella lamp from Aria Design Store, which exhibits a beautiful patina. Other notable pieces include a 1960s Danish coffee table, a thrifted Marcel Breuer cantilever chair, and a Flos Arco floor lamp. A 1970s pinecone wall lamp from a Danish vintage store in Vancouver was hand-carried home by Ms. Toh. Mid-century design signatures are prominent, with an Eames lounge chair, Hans J. Wegner’s CH24 Wishbone Chair, and a special-edition Safari chair by Kaare Klint. Personal touches include a pinewood side table and a kapur wood bench, both crafted by Mr. Lim. Beyond aesthetics, the home was conceived as a creative hub for the couple's artistic and hobby pursuits. A dedicated creative room stores art-making equipment, and plain white walls serve as a canvas for photographic prints, abstract paintings, and Ms. Toh’s first mural. The article concludes by noting that the couple's personal touches and years of inhabiting the space have successfully actualized their vision for The Ochre Home, creating a lived-in and deeply personal atmosphere. #EclecticHomeDesign #MidCenturyModern #OchreHome #ArtistHome #VintageFurniture #CreativeSpace #HomeStyling #SingaporeDesign #PersonalizedInteriors

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

Parisian architecture firm f+f architectes has completed the conversion of a former attic space in an Art Nouveau building in Strasbourg, France, into a contemporary and luminous two-storey, four-bedroom apartment. The renovation project involved the fourth and fifth floors of the building, which were previously used as maid rooms. The newly designed apartment spans 240 square meters, offering a modern living space within a historic context. The apartment's layout is split across two levels. The lower level is primarily dedicated to private spaces, featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a home office. Access to this level is through a double-height entrance hall, which is illuminated by a skylight, creating an immediate sense of openness and brightness upon entry. The upper level, in contrast, hosts the communal living areas, including an open-plan living room, a dining area, and a kitchen. This arrangement allows for a clear separation between private and public functions, catering to modern lifestyle needs. A key material choice in the renovation is black dyed MDF, which f+f architectes used extensively throughout the apartment. This material is integrated into various architectural elements, such as storage units and wall coverings, as well as custom-designed furniture, including the dining table. The selection of black dyed MDF is notable for its consistent color throughout its mass, which makes it less susceptible to visible chipping compared to stained or lacquered wood, ensuring durability and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. This material was also utilized for the stairs, creating a cohesive design language. To provide a visual contrast to the dark MDF, the stair banister is constructed from clear, laminated glass. This design choice contributes to the apartment's light and open feel, allowing natural light to penetrate through the structure while providing safety. The original pinewood flooring of the building was retained and updated. It was treated with lye, a substance that helps preserve the wood's natural light shade and prevents it from yellowing over time, ensuring the historical character of the flooring is maintained while integrating with the contemporary design elements. The structural elements of the attic, specifically the trusses, were left exposed, adding an industrial and raw aesthetic to the interior. Additionally, new metal I-beams were incorporated to open up the lower-floor plan and to support the terrace structure. Modifications were made to the roof's truss work to accommodate the new terrace and a new opening was created in the top floor for the stairs, demonstrating a careful balance between preserving existing structures and implementing necessary alterations for the new layout. The kitchen features a marble ceramic island, complementing the natural wood and black MDF, and is situated beneath the original beams. The bathrooms maintain the minimalist design with black MDF cupboards and marble wall and floor tiles, continuing the refined material palette. Two terraces, one of which is carved into the roof, are accessible from the upper floor and offer views of the surrounding park. The architects noted the asymmetrical pitch of the roof, which is steeper towards the street, likely to give the building a more imposing facade facing a large square. This project exemplifies how historic attic spaces can be transformed into functional, bright, and aesthetically cohesive modern apartments while respecting and highlighting the building's original features. #Lofts #Interiors #ResidentialArchitecture #Apartments #France #Strasbourg #AtticConversion

The article details the transformation of a 1,700-square-foot apartment in Singapore by design studio UPSTAIRS_, led by Dennis Cheok. Originally purchased by newlyweds, the apartment needed significant changes to accommodate a growing family returning with two children. The homeowners requested additional space, specifically three bedrooms (up from two), ample storage, separate wet and dry kitchens, and a dedicated yard. The previous interior featured moody tones, mirrored surfaces, and low ceilings, resulting in a dark and narrow feel. Cheok's primary goal was to maximize space and natural light. This was achieved by removing false ceilings, which revealed the original double-volume loft space and allowed for a loftier living and dining area. A central 'white box' was introduced as a unifying element, housing the dry kitchen and a breakfast bar, with the wet kitchen relocated adjacent to it. The top of this white box serves as an attic, significantly increasing the usable floor area and extending along the home's length to conceal services, storage, and other functional spaces. This strategic placement ensures that all other areas of the apartment are either within or organized around this central feature. Bedrooms are strategically placed at opposite ends of the apartment to enhance privacy. The master bedroom, for instance, is hidden behind translucent wall panels that also help amplify light. The master bathroom was expanded by repurposing space from the original kitchen to incorporate a generous walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. The overall aesthetic shifted towards a clean, white interior, which, combined with Teucer skyLUX artificial lighting systems mimicking skylights, brightens the space considerably. Exposed beams throughout the voluminous areas contribute an industrial character and emphasize the apartment's linear layout. The design philosophy embraces reduction, utilizing a neutral palette and purposeful color. Sliding partitions are a key feature, allowing for flexible expansion and division of space to suit daily family routines. While a minimalist approach defines much of the interior, elements of the original 1980s apartment were intentionally retained to add texture and historical depth. Exposed original brickwork, sections of timber flooring, and travertine tiles are preserved, acting as a visual narrative of the home's past. Salvaged items, such as vintage Bakelite switches, cinema seats from the old Golden Mile Theatre, and heirloom furniture, are integrated to imbue the dwelling with personality and a playful, art-gallery-like ambiance. These unique pieces, alongside modern sculptural accents like Studio Toogood’s Spade chairs and Flos lighting, create a layered environment that balances contemporary design with a reverence for the apartment's heritage. #SingaporeApartment #LoftConversion #SpaceMaximization #MinimalistInterior #FamilyHomeDesign #NaturalLight #AdaptiveReuse #FlexibleLiving #IndustrialAesthetic

Marie Lu, a bestselling author, and Primo Gallanossa, a game designer, sought a flexible and inspiring urban sanctuary in downtown Los Angeles's Arts District. They commissioned architecture firm CHA:COL to transform a 1,450-square-foot live/work loft into a space that could accommodate their writing and game design needs between frequent travels. The design brief emphasized creating a creative den for work, relaxation, and retreat. CHA:COL, led by design principals Apurva Pande and Chinmaya Misra, drew inspiration from the couple's professional backgrounds, particularly the game "Monument Valley" and the whimsical geometries of M.C. Escher. The central element of the loft is the "Writer’s Block," a custom-designed, multifaceted piece of oak veneer millwork. This versatile unit functions as a desk on one side, a lounge on the other, and incorporates shelving, effectively dividing the space while offering multiple uses. The design aimed to allow the clients to navigate and inhabit the loft in unique ways, much like Princess Ida moves through different levels in the Monument Valley game. The loft's design integrates both two-dimensional and three-dimensional elements. For example, white oak planks from the Writer’s Block seamlessly transition into FLOR carpet tiles that extend up an opposing wall, complemented by a matching mural. This playful mashup creates an optical illusion, making the two-dimensional elements appear three-dimensional and vice versa. Extensive studies were conducted to achieve the precise geometry for the wall art, eventually simplifying to paint swatches to complete the effect. Beyond the primary workspace, the loft also includes dedicated sleeping and kitchen areas. The kitchen features IKEA cabinets and a peninsular bar designed to encourage social interaction. Acoustic considerations were incorporated into the design, and the space is illuminated by a Zaneen pendant in addition to natural light from a facade of windows. The bathroom features a minimalist, monochromatic aesthetic with a custom white lacquer vanity and Porcelanosa tiles. The sleeping area is discreetly tucked away at the back of the loft, illuminated by a George Nelson Saucer Lamp. The project successfully created a highly functional and creatively stimulating environment. Initially conceived as an occasional getaway, the loft proved so effective that the clients found themselves spending more time there, reducing their need for frequent commuting. The design prioritized a simple, streamlined palette and carefully selected light fixtures that enhanced the spatial flow and movement within the loft, creating an urban oasis that fosters creativity and well-being. #LiveWorkLoft #CreativeSpace #GameDesignInspired #MultifunctionalFurniture #LosAngelesArchitecture #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #CustomMillwork

This article explores the design transformation of a 750 sq ft West Kowloon flat, showcasing a masterclass in adaptable interior design. The owners, Ben Chao (media professional) and his partner (banking professional), enlisted the expertise of Norman Ung Wai-lun, co-founder of Design Eight Five Two (Deft) and Form, to create a highly versatile living space. Their primary goal was to accommodate guests without sacrificing everyday living area, avoiding a permanently empty guest room. The original apartment, purchased in 2024, featured two bedrooms and two bathrooms. To achieve a more spacious living environment, the second bedroom was removed, and its area was integrated into the main living space. The core of this adaptable design lies in a custom-designed partition system. These panels, constructed from wood with a white lacquer finish, are engineered to glide effortlessly, allowing for dynamic adjustments to the layout and size of the guest room. This innovative system enables the living area to nearly double in size when the wall is retracted, or to swiftly create a comfortable guest bedroom when extended. Norman Ung emphasizes the sleekness of this design, ensuring that all elements are integrated seamlessly. Beyond functionality, the design also prioritized preserving and maximizing the panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline from the living area. The flexible partitions, coupled with a easily stowed Murphy bed, allow the space to transform into an instant guest nook or a larger bedroom as needed. This approach exemplifies how modern interior design can cater to evolving lifestyle needs, providing a practical yet stylish solution for urban living. The article highlights that good design is intrinsically linked to versatility and adaptability, allowing a home to gracefully evolve with its occupants' lives. #HongKongDesign #FlexibleLiving #ApartmentRenovation #AdaptiveInteriors #SpaceSavingSolutions #ModernDesign #WestKowloon #NormanUng #SmallSpaceDesign