NEVER TOO SMALL: Calm, Bright Minimalist Apartment, Brisbane 35sqm/375sqft

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Designed by NTS favourite Brad Swartz, the aptly named Slow Down Apartment reflects the vision behind the home's redesign; to create a calm and tranquil escape from the busyness of the city, a feeling Swartz accomplished through a restrained palette and minimal loose furniture. Key to Swartz’s redesign was relocating the kitchen, counterintuitively closing off a window, but improving the overall feel and sense of space in the small footprint. The unimposing white and light grey kitchen with curved overhead cabinetry blends seamlessly into the wall, ending with a perfectly sized dining nook hugged by the large corner windows. Opposite the kitchen, a sleek custom storage unit split into three, features a home office niche, integrated TV and a 68-bottle wine rack, with a sliding panel serving to seamlessly reveal or conceal each individual section as needed.
#smallapartment #architecture #interiordesign
Ep 153
Project Name: Slow Down Apartment
Architect: www.bradswartz.com.au/
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director & Cinematographer: Nam Tran
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Jessica Ruasol
Music: Solace by Liquid Memoirs & Deep State by Adi Goldstein from Artlist.io

[@barbarar5869]

I think the design is great, and it clearly works for the owners. Although I dont have a a ton of stuff, I can't really imagine having enough room for groceries or clothes. In such a small space a large wine rack or double shower would definitely not have been my priorities. Ironically this looks exactly like the type of place that would appeal to someone that spends a lot of time in cafes

[@OldSchoolAnni]

Haha yes, I thought the same. Maybe the laundry could've been integrated into the bathroom instead of having two shower heads thus allowing for more storage in the bedroom. Same for the wine rack, but I can see how it's a nice touch for someone who values that type of stuff. Generally nicely done apartment though.

[@Vacartu]

Honestly, I was thinking the same. But then I realized that maybe, I should Mary Kondo my stuff to find out if I really need it all.

[@kismetau]

I was thinking it might be a city pad rather than their permanent home. Otherwise they are sommeliers by profession and are able to dine at work (definitely not chefs) 😅

[@2big2fail47]

i really feel like nobody actually permanently lives in this apartment. It's an airbnb for sure, like so many of these NEVER TOO SMALL apartments that claim one could actually live in such a small space. For the most part, these are all airbnbs.

[@crisfer22]

​@@2big2fail47that's probably true but a sad thought too

[@TristanJalleh]

Most people I know with these inbuilt study/desk ‘nooks’ don’t use them - they’re often too narrow and face the wall like a tiny cubicle, and the residents prefer to sit at the dining area or somewhere facing a window instead. I’d expand the dining area to include a surface for working, which could also double for extra dining guests. The desk nook would be a great storage zone or place to display personal items.

[@ansonstuart8393]

My thoughts exactly. That does not look like a practical or enjoyable space to work. Makes it feel like a hotel not a home to me.

[@user-qv3zl7zk5p]

I have the same thoughts. Those nooks are terrible for sitting, better left for storage.

[@nftarchitect2522]

Facing the window for the work area, great idea. That’s why I work remotely and in cafes. Because I like facing views not walls

[@cher197]

I love the calm, spacious, elegant aesthetic they've created here. The warmth of the floor with the white, double glazed windows and the green of the trees outside is great. I also would find it challenging to reduce 'stuff' to the degree that's illustrated here and I did wonder where the kettle was. Having said that I am inspired to gradually reduce clutter to create the calm spaciousness. Re the desk nook - I too would much prefer a fold down or slide out work surface that would enable me to face the window when working.

[@astrid4894]

I am reading this at my desk nook...

[@mahmudabrori9116]

Am I the only one here who thought that the window is the MVP of this apartment? I mean, I can spent hours just sitting there while working, watching video, read book, or just simply see the sceneries. Such a perfect combination between big window, and white warm painted wall.

[@abrojosaputro]

I love how the natural light enhances the minimalist charm of the apartment, especially in the kitchen.

[@mahjabeenchoudhury9849]

Couldn't agree more, absolutely fantastic. Great job.

[@Brian_Vallejo]

The giant wine rack, tiny fridge, & tight bed aren’t my cup of tea, but generally this apartment is wonderful. And the natural light really makes this place so inviting.

[@barryricho]

I think Brad Swartz is my favourite architect on NTS, closely followed by Nicholas Gurney. This apartment is fantastic, what a transformation from the original look of the space. The work, rest, play concept works perfectly 👏

[@shimoguchilina3810]

Me too..

[@dfalls9321]

Couldn’t agree more with this comment 🙌🏿🙏🏿🙌🏿 Both Swartz & Gurney exemplify the core values of NTS. Their design interventions illustrate how small footprint living can be affordable, flexible and accessible. Their keen attention to detail in relation to their client’s needs result in successful transformations of space and enhanced functionality. As an aspiring interior architect & designer, I would really appreciate it if NTS produced a more in-depth video on their design process.

[@PjXu98]

This apartment is my second favorite of this channel. My other favorite one is also from Brad Swartz.

[@cookiemonster4968]

Same for me : Brad Swartz

[@gerardcarpizo]

Agree, both architects were the designers of space why I got hooked with NTS.

[@jennieanderson5291]

Now, THIS is an actual tiny apartment. We've seen a lot of spaces above the 600 square foot/55 square meter floor space on this channel lately, which just doesn't feel like much of a challenge to design. This space was very cleverly done. I agree with the other comments about the fridge space not being big enough, but it's possible that the owners don't care for cooking, and if so, this kitchen is ample. Building in a king size bed frame was clever, since double beds can feel so cramped for two people. I like the clean and simple lines, and the flooring is beautiful. And those windows! Wow!

[@jzhou3043]

i love this! some things i've really picked up from watching these videos -- the impact of curvature in small spaces. One of my favorite earlier videos featured a curved counter that wrapped around a corner which was so elegant. this one with the subtle curve in the kitchen just provides so much openness...

[@ytubechannel997]

Could the kitchen not have been L-shaped to provide more prep space? There is that blank wall beside it.

[@barrycoffey492]

Beautiful renovation, except (in my opinion) the "wall to wall" bed. Getting in and out as well as making it would be a nightmare....... at least it would be for me.

[@phuttyyt]

I agree - for me it's bad enough when there's access to only one side of a bed, so to have neither side accessible here is a big no. I mean, I guess you'd get used to it, and I'm sure the extra space in the bed is a plus compared to a double. But this set-up feels like the built-in bed comes with built-in hassle.

[@oygenn]

The layout functionality, and just overall design and feel of this 35sqm apartments is amazing, feels like it's a much larger apartment! It honestly looks so much better and more spacious than most 50sqm apartments I've seen. Truly great work! 👍

[@gianfranco_maldetto_92]

Nope. The original layout is bad!

[@tuppence937]

I just adore this apartment. Stylish, thoughtful, relaxing design. The study, tv, wall unit is functional and clever. The double shower adds a touch of luxury to this inner, urban apartment. I would struggle with the small fridge - it just doesn't feel big enough - but I assume the owners are okay with it.

[@BenjaminDaniel]

Not a fan of a bed with little room to make it. Otherwise this concept is lovely.

[@posyb71]

agreed that size fridge is not workable even for one person

[@theukyankee]

It's not unusual in the UK to have that size fridge - people just shop as they need things. I have a larger one now, but the first few years of living on my own, it worked out fine.

[@tuppence937]

The hot, humid weather in Brisbane necessitates refrigeration of more food items compared to the UK.

[@caitlinthorn1]

I have one that size and it's totally fine for one or two, the actual problem is the shoebox freezer, you can't store much long-term at all.

[@posyb71]

I really like it BUT as a small (solo) person there is not enough storage in the kitchen or bedroom for me, I don't know how a couple would manage.

[@carlm6766]

Really like this. Would be so good if they gave a brief rundown of the architect / construction costs for a renovation like that.

[@prawiraagung4011]

"eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeexpensive!" - architect

[@timepi437]

This has the feel of stepping in and knowing straight away you love it. So airy, bright and calm. I love the work/rest/play zones. However, NTS, I was thrown (and really out off) many times by the distortion of filming method, where image is stretched out to make it look bigger. I had to replay parts many times as didn’t make sense. (Eg bathroom, corner window nook). PLEASE don’t resort to this real estate falsity to make it look bigger. The spaces are lovely and don’t need this pretense. Keep it real.

[@janetw3461]

Brad Swartz is the best NTS architect. I love his clean and minimalist design.

[@ITcanB]

Making that bed would be challenging as well as scooting in and out of it to sleep in ❤

[@DESSERT_X]

In that part of Brisie, you only need two things: a big comfy bed and a great shower. LOVE IT!

[@dymaxion88]

This chap does the finest work on NTS. His Pyrmont loft house is perfection...

[@dashingboy11]

This book is a comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to build a second unit on their property. kzbin.infoUgkxzaRUJNcbypw-fRBDbqqz43ULIa-1EGP- It showcases various types of houses, such as garage apartments, with photos, videos, and floor plans. The book provides the square footage and the dimensions of each house, as well as the option to order the plans or customize them according to your preferences. You can choose from a range of styles, from ultra modern to cottages and A frame lake houses. The book also offers suggestions for sheds, pool houses, and office studio buildings. This book is an ideal resource for the aspiring home designer.

[@stephen6307]

I like the way this space looks and the way it functions. My intense dislike is the sleeping area. Being a person who needs to make his bed each morning , I think it would be difficult to achieve. Just a little more space!

[@michelestapleton]

Yes, I imagine changing the sheets on a mattress that touches three walls is a challenge. Even tho I might enjoy sleeping in a dark nook, come time to change sheets or make the bed I’d want at least a foot on three sides.

[@irenero8932]

Me too. It must be very annoying

[@ichabodnoodle9595]

Well turned out little apartment - my only comment would be, why give up the window for the kitchen? We have a glass splash back and it’s great. Let’s in the light, you can see out while you’re cooking, increases the sense of space - would have been perfect here.

[@kierand9410]

That would have been very cool but may have been tricky to fix the upper cabinets.

[@ichabodnoodle9595]

@@kierand9410 we’ve got cupboards (& a range hood) above our glass splash back. It can work.

[@torquemada2]

Letterbox windows are pretty common these days.

[@MsWinterlife]

Judging by the original floorplan drawing and the rest of the windows inside the apartment, the kitchen window that was sealed off would have been the same size as the bathroom window. It would have been tall and narrow and that would have made the new design quite tricky, for if you kept that window then you would have to sacrifice some overhead cabinet space in an already small kitchen, not to mention disrupting the smooth lines of the whole room. And if you want to install a new lowline window that fits the space allowed for the splashback, you’d have to knock down parts of the external wall to achieve this, which may raise the risk of structural damage to the building and lead to higher building insurance premium for everyone who owns an apartment there. Since the building is governed by the Owners’ Corporate, they may raise objections that stalled or even stopped the project at its planning stage. Sealing off the window, on the other hand, is a relatively low risk modification. In any case the kitchen / dining / living room has plenty of natural light as it is, and remember that Brisbane is very warm and humid for most parts of the year so more sun isn’t always better :)

[@michaelanthonymoreno1701]

Another Brad Swartz's masterpiece. Brad is the best small apartment architect in my opinion.

[@cherieannese1132]

He so is

[@lizasoliman723]

when i lived in a studio on my own i always cooked at home but never used even half the fridge space. i also had half the counter space this kitchen offers. this apartment would have been luxurious for that season in my life ♥️

[@irenero8932]

You are right mine is almost empty all the time but being on the floor is not handy.

[@Janine6564]

What a beautiful space! I love all the windows and the older vibe they give. The greenery coming from outside is the bonus!! 💚

[@SharpStrike]

On paper the square footage is small but on video it looks so livable! Also love the choice of ethnicraft furniture, love them. Wish this architect could do my apartment in California 😭

[@SilviaSbraNutri]

I love this! Wouldn't work for me because I need bigger kitchen, but overall it's a great project.

[@jori7398]

Very pretty and calming space-and I’m laughing so hard that the only prominent non-furniture object allowed to be seen is the wine rack. 😂😂😂❤️

[@andronicemarinis1072]

Very nice, just the bed😮, hopefully wheels out to make it and then wheel it back in.

[@bucketofbarnacles]

Such wonderful light. The kitchen move is smart, despite closing a window, though I could not live with that small of a fridge.

[@pauz6864]

This video made me realize how important is the illumination on any space, I think as a future architecture that we need to study this more on detail, because it can provide a cozy space and harmonious atmosphere

[@deborahduffy99]

My favorite is the Kitchen/Dining area that brings nature inside. Well done 👌

[@diana24241]

I like it, I'll just add outlets to the kitchen for blenders, toaster. And a induction stove of 4

[@d.bobbyjack7002]

An apartment that I initially found great, but as the video progressed, it seemed like there were many missed opportunities. The cramped bed is a big issue for me, and the fact that they removed a window in the kitchen area to replace it with a wall is a no-go. Why didn't they just rework it so it couldn't open but still allowed light to pass above the sink, below the upper cabinets? Or even better, why didn't they switch the layout, placing the kitchen where the TV unit is, and the sofa facing the windows (including the one that was closed off)? I hope that the clients and future clients never want a larger TV and don't need to work with anything other than a sheet of paper in that office area ... On the other hand there are many nice ideas that are well executed and the bathroom is great, but my flat is 5 square meters smaller but seems to have 5 more, although I don't have a double shower or a wine rack, which seems to be a post-Covid necessity for the owner (I can understand) :p

[@lord0jackostar]

Switching layouts means moving pipes. Given that the kitchen was right against the bathroom, I’m guessing the apartment uses the same pipes to supply both. Moving the kitchen to the other end entirely might have been a bit much for the building, while just moving it around a corner is much easier and only requires small extension that will fit behind the cabinets.

[@vzit1331]

what would your estimate be of the bathroom width and length?

[@junehulton9776]

This is a great space...well designed.... colours style. Great size and easy to take care of . I could live there....quite comfortably

[@keithronson2624]

As below, the instant the first shot began it is a Brad Swartz design. And yes, without doubt always delivers something incredible. A quality, light-filled apartment where ever sq mm is utilised to the max. The attention detail is impeccable. What a place to live/work. A real 10/10! Thank you.

[@msthing]

It's all slick and nice, but it doesn't look lived in, more like an AirBnB. Where would I put my bananas? Shoes? I'm just closing my eyes and imagining an array of hand and face soaps on those beautiful counters -- the feel will be a bit different :D I love the double shower: both of the heads will be for me tho

[@nicofrouws6142]

Gorgeous ! I would also like to see more tiny living with a more maximalist/busy interior… someone who collects things :)

[@tinekejoldersma]

The light in this apartment is absolutely stunning. Indeed a tree house.

[@notoriousfierce]

i would prefer large fridge than wine rack but to each of his own. love the apartment nevertheless.

[@Girneosny]

So cozy! And that dining nook is a dream ❤

[@renaado212]

this is probably my favorite one from NTS, in addition to the Cairo house. Just great minimal design with a lot of natural lighting

[@Sinitarus]

I am always astonished that lot of the designers presented here seem to not think about ergonomics and comfort when choosing seating for the work desk/design of the work desk :/

[@l.a.3479]

Good point. Sitting on a stool for a long time at a desk--uncomfortable.

[@DAKESIS17]

that was great, only raised my eyebrows at the bed. A pain to get out of. What if you need the loo in the middle of he night? you need to shuffle all the way down to the bottom of the bed. Not easy access points

[@garethjd78]

After so many colourful overseas videos, this is a reminder Australian's love white, beige, and grey - straight out of a Country Road catalogue.

[@jemma50]

Personally, I find this apartment cold. It has such potential, but I never understand why people think that small spaces need to be all white. There's no coziness. I love colour and I feel this apartment would benefit from a little more of it. I don't mean you have to have a rainbow of colours on all the walls, but softening the white to a cream or pale yellow or some other pastel would bring some life to the space. Not a bad layout, although the bed scrunched in like that would drive me crazy! LOL Just my opinion. ♥

[@jemma50]

@@wp9087 Absolutely true! What I find, though, is that most of these Never Too Small homes are very sterile in their decor, with bright white walls. Where's the warmth? I only remember seeing a couple of them with warm colours and coziness. Lots of great floor plans, though. That's why I keep watching. ♥

[@jemma50]

@@l.a.3479 Minimalist means less stuff; it has nothing to do with colour. Minimalist can be cozy, too. It doesn't have to be so stark. That's where colour comes in - it warms up the space.

[@l.a.3479]

​@@jemma50Thanks

[@melindadouglas1673]

Absolutely gorgeous design! The only thing I would change is to add more storage on the blank wall in the kitchen area. I would do floor to ceiling, wall to counter top enclosed shelving. Well done!

[@misscheung7866]

Superior design without any compromise on functionality. Looks double the size, like playing magic. Another showcase of "less is more"🎉

[@polipavlova8101]

One of the best designs, focused on functionality and utilization of every space, minimal, stylish and cosy at the same time.

[@1964Msbea]

smart design - compact, yet feels spacious, light and airy, calming and relaxing mood. i like all the designs he did with such small spaces, functional, simple but still elegant.

[@achtube85]

This apartment gives me a warm sense of peace. Oh, so lovely and welcoming. A place to rest ❤

[@macheifach]

Masterfully done, very elegant but incredible cozy aswell. One more little luxury touch I would have added, would be a small stone bench in the shower.

[@user-zw4tb2vg2f]

incredibly good flat and design, the window view is really astonishing! Can`t believe it is just 35 sq m! Incredible work

[@mariastathopoulos744]

Overall good flow within a tiny apartment. Personally l need more room for the bedroom - a hassle to get in/out and change linens. Too tight. I'd feel as if l was sleeping overnight in a train berth. For 2 people there isn’t a lot of storage. I would have chosen a full bathroom vanity and single shower to capitalise on storage solutions. I'd have skipped the wine rack too for open shelves/book shelf to personalise with belongings. Each to their own.

[@shiftyourperception]

it's like a jewel.. the white of the walls and the furniture gives the feeling of elegance, peace and light. it has that ingredient that makes you say when you walk in the door... i'm home.

[@nmbr6kid]

I would have done a Murphy bed in that space but everything else is beautifully executed even though I’m not a minimalist.

[@lomalinke5042]

Again, really pretty. He knows what he’s doing.

[@sweetiepie1372]

Beautiful. And the sense of calm oozes out. But I'll bet changing that bed, duvet cover and sheet, is a bit of a nightmare.

[@anitavirginillo]

One of my favourite small spaces yet...I love the minimalist aesthetic.

[@astrid4894]

This is fantastic, one of my all time favourites! What a great apartment on a modest footprint. The joinery and quality of finishes is sublime. Love the storage wall and the way the TV is hidden, the wine rack, how it blends in vertically with the square blank canvas, the seating arrangement by the kitchen, the shower, the bathroom details, the deep storage in the bedroom... all of it, really! Great work!

[@Nalanrd]

I love the view, especially by the window corner of the kitchen looks very peaceful. i love the trees. Nice spot to sit and enjoy the view.

[@Kris-br4he]

Brad Swartz knocking it out of the park again! My absolute favourite designer, who truly does create comfortable, livable spaces in a tiny footprint. More from him please!!!

[@keyboardcowboy666]

Very clean look and great design but not very personal.

[@rafaelreno1674]

I like this design very much. Simple, clean, spacious, cozy and lightly. ❤

[@lulipsia2360]

Definitely the smallest apartment with the biggest wine rack! :D seriously beautiful design, I love the nook in the kitchen and the sleeping area. The whole apartment feels cozy, yet light and functional.

[@cecilung8722]

I like the built in bench mext to the kitchen unit amd rhe small fridge. it really saved a lot of space and provide a green view for meals.

[@user-hi5ph8pb1x]

I can't believe that this apartment is 35sqm!!! Amazing job! Feels so calm as well!

[@grigorisgirl]

Fabulous design love the windows especially and the table corner. On a personal, old person, note I couldn’t cope with crawling in and out of the bottom of the bed and I’d have to have some art on the walls.👍🏼

[@I_am_Lauren]

Wow! This is one of the smallest ones yet! The corner window by the kitchen is to die for!

[@katharinamarschall5662]

It’s super minimalistic. I feel myself pulled to a minimalistic lifestyle more and more. A few month ago I thought minimalism is plain boring and impersonal, but now I think it’s calming

[@jcgoldsmith6515]

Beautiful and classy build. Thoughtful design work.

[@irenelopezmartin2246]

The two shower heads is my dream 😭 I had it written in a note to myself years ago and this is the first time I actually see it! Genius

[@brandonburridge]

Easily one of my favorite designs I've soon on NTS. Beautiful work!

[@Gramophine]

I really like the mentality put forward in this project. Beautiful and inspiring.

[@violetgilkes3625]

I really like the corner window with built in bench in the living room. Also like the wood lining inside the big white storage in living room.

[@TheSushmaHomeSellingTeam]

The abundant natural light created a serene atmosphere and it's so gorgeous in style and in ambiance. 🥰🥰

[@niroleyniroley]

Очень гармоничные и эргономичные решения.прекрасные цвета. молодец.удачи!

[@00sof]

i adore this space - everything one might need is right here. the double shower did give me a little giggle lol

[@MommaBear-Marlene]

He is the best with making a small apartment/ home look so much bigger!!

[@girtsroze3781]

This guy again, finally some good stuff comes back, amazing work from him always

[@busheater944]

Wow, such clever design! It feels so clean but looks so inviting at the same time

[@GrantRTanner]

This space realy speaks to me. Hats of to the designer; fantastic work!

[@jefri4176]

Very nice especially the white colour scheme brighten up the space.

[@SamGiles]

My gosh, this is just wonderful. Congrats to all involved!

[@louise-marie]

Perfect. I would love to live there. Feels like a cozy home.

[@Bessunger]

Fantastic, optimum use of the space, great ideas. Masterpiece

[@Suho1004]

I love all the natural light, and that breakfast nook is ideal. But I think I have minimum needs when it comes to space, and apparently it is greater than 35sqm. I love my wife and we get along swimmingly, but we also like having separate spaces where we can do our things. Here, for example, you physically cannot have one person watching TV and the other person using the study nook at the same time, even if such a thing were realistically viable. I see this working for one person, but not two, not if you are expecting them to spend most of their time in the apartment as opposed to out at cafes, etc.

[@laradigar]

I’m pretty sure I have the exact same colourful checked blanket! This flat was absolutely lovely and looked so much bigger than 35sqm!

[@brendata1871]

The dining space is awesome, simple but comfortable ❤

[@CaptureJoseph]

I'm in the process of buying a 34sqm and it looks tiny compared to this. You've done an AMAZING job of making this feel like a much bigger space. We are torn between making a divider/partition wall and having a tiny dark bedroom just for sleeping, or putting the bed under the bay window and having it more as a feature in the room. I like how you've made that small bedroom, and I like sleeping in a comfy little nook. I'm not a big sleeper and like my bedroom as cool and dark as possible

[@Aquachick65]

One of the BEST yet!! Simply beautiful. Hello from Byron Bay 🌈🌿

[@rolandschoenauen]

Really nice! A lot of natural light. Love it! Well done.

[@Puj_02]

I do love the design, but the kitchen is so small now, it was bigger before the renovation, which I prefer. And I actually prefer the weird tiles in the bathroom before the Reno too. As nice as this place is, it definitely wouldn’t work for me. So it’s interesting to see how it works for other people

[@davonpointer2310]

Beautiful design, finishing looks to be of a v high standard too. Great space 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@AdGeekGirl]

Why block the window? It would've been so cool above the kitchen

[@AdGeekGirl]

Especially above the sink

[@anniinthewoods8287]

Best calm minimalist apartment I have ever seen =) Love it!

[@rubberdc]

This is absolutely stunning!

[@reflexology52welsh48]

What a refreshing place, I love it!

[@mx5373]

..blocking a window!? Unbelievable! The dining space looks so cramped now, and placing a sofa right in the middle of such a small space.. oh.. hope the owner likes it

[@jeanenricobabtiste]

Double shower is such a nice extraordinary idea