When space is limited, it’s easy to assume that your options for both practicality and style are, too. However, with some intelligent design, the right architect can maximise space so that it is both functional and attractive.
Over the last year, we have all been inside a lot more – and being stuck in a small, uninspiring space can encourage poor mental wellbeing to fester. Airier, lighter, and more open spaces all help with this.
Space can often be at a premium if budget is limited, or if your property is in a popular area. One of VAKOTA’s architects, Stephen Taylor, has worked on several projects in New York City, and is well versed in designing for small spaces.
“In NYC, every space is a small space!” he said. “It’s a city where space is limited, but expectations and prices are high. But that doesn’t mean the spaces can’t be beautiful.”
Starting with the ‘Why’
Stephen explained: “I always start out these projects by investigating the client’s specific needs. Understanding how they live their life is key to understanding how they use their space. And from there, you can optimize it, and create a living space that flows easily for their personal day-to-day.”
“For example, a lot of projects with a smaller square footage tend to come up against issues in the bathroom and kitchen. So, one approach might be to opt for wall-mounted fixtures to free up floor space.”
One such project on West 72nd Street required a solution for overnight guests that allowed both functionality and privacy. Thanks to an innovative look at the available space, the original bathroom was split into two, with one entrance in the bedroom and one in the main living space, which could double as a guest room. The two new bathrooms were joined by a shared shower – and both now offer privacy and facilities to both resident and guest.
“Double-usage of items is a great way to maximise on space. The shared shower is a great example. We also might use seating that doubles up as storage, or cabinets that have access on both sides,” said Stephen.
Functionality over fashion?
Thankfully, with a skilled architect at the helm, you don’t need to sacrifice on style to get as much practicality from your small space as possible.
You can still make a project look amazing, by being cunning about placement of key pieces, and smart with your budget.
“Keep things simple but choose some key focal points and eye-catching fixtures. Those feature items should be where you focus the budget,” Stephen said. “Too much and you’ll overwhelm the small space – but choosing the right flourishes and getting the balance just right can make something really stunning.”
In some cases, focal points can even work to the project’s advantage. For example, VAKOTA’s East 62nd Street residential project had a small kitchen, and a wall we couldn’t knock down.
“If you can’t knock a wall down, you can still create better light and space by putting in an internal window or opening to allow a better flow in the home. On East 62nd Street we created an opening in the wall that can be used as a bar, with seating and a view into the kitchen. It then becomes an attractive, functional focal point.” Stephen said.
Having a small space doesn’t immediately mean having to choose between design and function. The right architect can see opportunities in the smallest home and knows how to bring them to life in a way that suits the client perfectly.
