NEVER TOO SMALL: Lego Collector's Minimalist Singapore Apartment - 47sqm/506sqft

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Named after its minimalist, lego enthusiast owner, Alex was meticulously designed by William Chan of Spacedge Designs to suit the very particular style and needs of his client. Given complete creative freedom, Chan removed all the internal walls of the 47sm public housing flat, creating one continuous open space with a series of seamless wood-look laminate cabinets, chosen for their easy maintenance and pattern consistency, that appear to float off the ground. Hidden inside this cabinetry are carefully curated functional zones including a desk to work and build lego at, as well as a compact kitchen, laundry and concealed fridge. Blue tubular hardware and a matching light fixture that runs the length of the living room, along with a wall mounted, fluorescent orange “coin bank” designed by Chan and included on recommendation from a feng shui master, are the only pops of colour in the otherwise clean and crisp space.
#smallapartment #architecture #interiordesign
Project Name: Alex
Designer: www.spacedge.com/
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director/Camera Operator: Kevin Siyuan
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Yasmin Bright/Colin Chee
Music: Plastic Breath by Tamaz Dekel and Shimmer by Liquid Memoirs

[@nevertoosmall]

If you’re an architect or designer with a project we could feature, please share it with us at www.nevertoosmall.com/submissions Architect: www.spacedge.com Cinematography: kzbin.info Check out our book - www.nts.store Workspace by Never Too Small - www.nts.space Website www.nevertoosmall.com Instagram instagram.com/nvtsmall Facebookfacebook.com/nvtsmall

[@sonya3711]

I really would love to know if I could buy one of his wall mounted coin boxes. They’re absolutely amazing. Thank you.

[@obidean3964]

I appreciate how the designer admit the deco is not for everyone at the beginning, specifically tailored to his client's unique taste. This is possibly the most minimalist setup of all minimalist setups presented in this channel so far. I love myself some minimalist but this maybe a bit too far, almost remind me to the innie office in Severance TV series, very dystopian vibe but still kudos to the designer, it's a very cohesive and well done masterpiece. There are few distinctive touch like the tube shape design for the light bar, shower head and water pipe, very original and looks dope. Btw, the Lego collection by the owner is beautiful.

[@easygii]

I totally agree.. I love the wood panelling and cohesive style and fun pops of colour. The only thing I couldnt understand is the position of the kitchen- the original space seems so much more suitable for kitchen.

[@squa_81]

agreed, and the small kitchen is nice!

[@remimollycoddle]

I personally would never live in a place like this. But the architect delivered what the client wanted so 10/10.

[@julie3722]

Same. That doesn't look homely, welcoming and warm.

[@baj_0612]

but as a professional and has more knowledge about these kinds of stuff, you should (sometimes) say "no" and make the client understand why you disagree on some stuff...

[@supertaufiqr]

I can see myself kicking the edges of the wooden corner... but looks nice nevertheless

[@chloeuntrau4588]

@@julie3722 yep...no wonder he has a single bed...

[@endlesssnothing]

@@chloeuntrau4588 What a weird comment.

[@bucketofbarnacles]

It’s clear to me how the space and design are adapted to the owner: They are very lego-like. It’s very original and highly specific for one type of use. The colors and details are so well thought out.

[@gus473]

The bathroom's plumbing fixtures -- especially the shower head -- are great!

[@AlwaysTheStoryCollector]

This was fascinating to watch. It's totally not my style but you can see the care that was taken to design something for the person who do like this. I'm sure the person who designed this had their own view and input but it's done so well I can't notice it. Just based on this video alone I would think about hiring this architect/designer. Very very impressive and I can't come up with something better to say than just "Wow".

[@chanszechinn4154]

Me second that!

[@Rye_Toast]

I agree, I kept thinking about what a good job this designer did.

[@suede3910]

somehow this space feels like a hide and seek playground since everything is hidden by wood cabinet. and i can't help but think, how easy to clean this space is as everything is closed off. if i live in that place, i would just have a robot vacuum do all the work for me😂 nice work!

[@baguette9692]

rigghhht!!

[@tinekejoldersma]

My LEGO-loving son was in awe of this apartment. I love the colours, the blue is often used in medical places like hospitals. It gives a clean, peaceful aura. There's no disturbance or interference from the outside world in this apartment. I think Alex needs that. Well done to give the client absolute 100% space to be himself.

[@julebrummsel6759]

As the architect pointed out this kind of minimalism isn't everyone's cup of tea. But you have to admire the execution and well thought design. this was really fascinating to watch!

[@IngaFox]

This is such a weird space, in a good way. Love that this channel allows for presentation of such interesting spaces that we would never have the opportunity to peek inside of.

[@garluns]

This space is so specific for the owners requirements. It’s definitely a nice apartment. I’d still prefer a bigger bed and some privacy for the bathroom

[@romainthblt]

spot on, this design is near-perfect but it doesn't scale for a couple because of these choices

[@garluns]

@@romainthblt the owner definitely has a particular lifestyle choice that works for him. I’m into socialising with family and friends 👬 so I’ll definitely have different needs in a apartment design and layout. I adore the multi use storage spaces in this design. The fridge contents was impressive to say the least 🙂

[@romainthblt]

@@garluns even as a bachelor, I would have a wide bed, and I think there was enough space in the flat for it without breaking the Feng shui or the concept.

[@garluns]

@@romainthblt yeah definitely has enough space for a bigger bed 🛌

[@Esty770]

“Specific” is putting it kindly.

[@bashagreis5018]

Love the fact that this is so tailored for the occupant. Thus full marks for the architect. I live alone but am older and have accumulated too much meaningful art over time for this to be completely transferrable but I'd hire the architect to design for me in a heartbeat. Excellent, elegant and beautiful work.

[@wolfyshanrod6852]

Omg I love that the entire apartment is basically one large Lego piece! I’m very fascinated by feng shui and how it’s catered to the owners well-being and placement of the furniture. 15/10 😍

[@AndoCommando1000]

I am absolutely NOT a minimalist, but for someone who is (like the person this was designed for) you can tell it was extremely well-made and a lot of thought and artistry (regardless of whether the style is to my preferences or not) has gone into this apartment.

[@DanielTitchener]

Such a beautiful use of colour. I love how they made the bed and bathroom look like a floating piece of furniture!

[@FromOwen]

Lovin’ it

[@victoriouspancake]

It is high enough that no Lego piece can be lost underneath it

[@ryebee64]

It is a bit cold and lonely looking, but in a very sunny hot Singapore, I'd quite enjoy it. Love that there is no clutter and the apartment is easy to clean. And that personal bathroom and vanity! The faucet and shower is so unique and that toilet window is so innovative. What a dreamy set up ♡♡

[@gus473]

👍🏼Fully agree, particularly about the ease of cleaning! Nice! 😎✌🏼

[@aibochan1764]

This is awesome, actual minimalism. Rare.

[@heathertruskinger6214]

Wow...a bomb shelter ! Full of Lego, and a soft colour scheme does make it relaxing...but I am still getting over the fact that it has a bomb shelter ! Very clean lines and minimalist style

[@dm-wz8ry]

Nearly all hdb apartment come with it. Mind-blowing, I know :)

[@rachelwebber3605]

Glad I'm not the only one who fixated on the bomb shelter LOL

[@heathertruskinger6214]

@@rachelwebber3605 ... I actually paused the video, and replayed it a couple of times to see if it was a spelling mistake on the floor plan ! 😂

[@MakeMeThinkAgain]

Is the "bomb shelter" intended as a place to take shelter in the event of a really bad typhoon? Otherwise Singapore seems to be going beyond even Switzerland, though I don't see how these could be considered fallout shelters.

[@heathertruskinger6214]

@@MakeMeThinkAgain not sure if the bomb shelter is " fallout" proof. Maybe the architect, or someone who knows more about this can answer all our queries

[@Chingleton]

Bit confused as to the placement of the fridge being in the same vicinity as the toilet... but the style and design I really like. That minimalist look is very cool.

[@aifar]

I was thinking the same! The fridge placement is super weird

[@tickub]

The fridge being filled with bottled sports drink should clueyou into the owner's lifestyle. His average day probably flows like workout -> hydrate -> shower, and preferably all away from the bedroom area.

[@aifar]

@@tickub obviously there must be a reason why the client wanted the fridge there but that does not make it any less odd. I'm not being critical or saying is wrong is just odd hehehe ^_^

[@tsuriranpu]

The fridge is next to the kitchen. If you're cooking just turn around to get to it. It's placed on the corner so it wouldn't get in the way

[@tsuriranpu]

@@wilmaknickersfit Doesn't matter really. There's a wall between there so you'll have to walk anyways

[@tobias-hastings]

Feel very tailored to the occupant, their hobbies and lifestyle. Great job by William and the Feng Shui expert.

[@angelosolitude]

Great example of a design that revolves around exactly what the client’s needs & desires are.

[@Semootans]

This is a dream aparment for me. I've never seen a place to live that i desired so much until this video. The whole clutter-free look, the minimalism, the appliences, the blue color slapped here and there in what would be a plain wooden box without it. So so dreamy for me

[@MikoSan]

This is a DREAM home clean and no clutter and everything out of sight. kudos to the DEsigner William

[@Starfireaw11]

When the bomb shelter is the coziest part of the apartment...

[@Rye_Toast]

I really like how this space is built specifically for the occupant. Plus, a minimalist with a hobby? Why yes, I will click and view immediately. I love how he has PLENTY of room for his passion but can close it all away to avoid visual clutter and yet still have stuff on display because... why not?! Love this!

[@hermenejota]

I can´t say I love it or it is the best one I´ve ever seen on this channel, but I have to say is mindblowing. If you stop to watch every single detail on every corner you can say is made by a master designer who deliver what client wanted in an extraordinary way

[@hohitdesignlab7900]

this is really minimalist desgin unlike most people try to look like minimalist by hiding junks within a flat cabinate. this is the right design for the client's need. good job for the designer!

[@maaike6048]

This apartment would make me so depressed..

[@janson2911]

I’d be miserable if I live there. There’s no details whatsoever there but if the owner is happy then well done to him I guess

[@imnotabird1118]

Its not suited for most people but it suits the current owner. Pretty good design

[@marquis9074]

This looks like Singapore

[@cihanozbag8755]

very different. special. Congratulations!!!

[@maximus1842]

To each their own

[@RogerRafaelTay]

Always been a fan of William’s designs. One of the most underrated Singapore designer.

[@tanschi8449]

The attention to detail is astonishing. Even the low key hinges were taken into consideration! I am amazed at the final product. It really is a work of art. As the architect said, it's not for me, but I just love what he did here. the lighting, the glass partition, the floating furniture. So bespoke and so amazing. Congratulations

[@Carrera718]

It looks like an art gallery, and I think the amount of hiding everything behind wood also makes the living space look massive. The whole space looks massive for one person. I do think it looks cold, and I’d personally incorporate that blue much more, maybe even paint some of thr walls that color. That said it’s really well done and like most have said already, this is a highly specific, customized home to the owner!

[@granny3829]

i feel like although this is an aesthetically pleasing space, it doesn’t really give me ‘homely’ vibes

[@haebee]

kudos to such a singular commitment to the client's lifestyle. the bulthaup style kitchen is the cherry on top. chef's kiss.

[@Munchmores]

The flat was turned into a loft apartment. This is the most unique design I have seen for this flat layout since. Well done.

[@CCQcomment]

I really enjoyed this designer's creation. I enjoy when a design builds a home in a functional way that also is artistic to look at. It absolutely fit the client's lifestyle

[@Derlei]

I am proud to say that my country, Singapore builds among the best public housing/apartments in the world. more than 80% of the population lives in these type of apartments called HDB flats.

[@saikogrrl]

I was a bit confused by this, why a person working in finance would be in public housing, is it for everyone in Singapore? In Australia public housing flats are really only for those who are on very low incomes, or cannot work.

[@Derlei]

@@saikogrrl A landed house, with garden, car parking lot, will cost upwards of a SGD$1mil and more. Not everyone can afford it. A housing flat, 90sqm-110sqm, will cost between SGD$300k - 1Mil. If there were not HDB public housing, the homeless rate in Singapore will skyrocket

[@v_iika]

I'm so grateful Never Too Small features HDB flats! Many people in the world don't have the imagination to see how public housing can look like. I would love to live in this house

[@zhen86]

@@saikogrrl For public housing, first income celling is $14K for couple, single 7k. and above 35. You do not need to be a citizen, but you need to be a PR and married to a SG citizen for new flats or married to another PR for at least 3 years before getting a resale flat. 47 meter square or below has no property tax.

[@junny0904]

Love this design and the colours in the flat. Feel free and cosy. Minimalist and functional for a single person.

[@iamwindchakra]

It's very austere and serene, a little bit dystopian, very Kim K, and extremely minimalist. I totally get this is specifically catered to this client. Not for me but I love all the storage.

[@keeliee]

This is one of the boldest change of layout ive seen in a flat of this typical model. Open plan toilet is uncommon. This house is only meant for 1 person and i couldn't imagine having a single guests over. It feels very personal, bespoked, and everything is designed with the owner's needs in mind.

[@myladycasagrande863]

Given the shortage of comfortable seating, I doubt the client has guests regularly. Very much a one person space.

[@ButacuPpucatuB]

You can tell the flat speaks to the owner’s soul. 🧡🧡 I hope he will consider expanding the area for the bed. The flat still has space for a wider sleeping area.

[@spiralpython1989]

Why? Some people really prefer a smaller bed, the enclosed sleeping place is clearly exactly what the client desired. It would feel protective, and probably quite cosy.

[@saikogrrl]

I did wonder what would happen if he started dating someone and wanted them to stay over, the bed doesn't seem large enough for two people. But who knows, maybe he is not interested in that

[@ButacuPpucatuB]

@@saikogrrl One major thing rona taught me was to be more open with life’s possibilities. So, he may need a small bed now, but one day that may all change. Love and romance, and maybe you’ll want your beloved to move in. That’s why I said what I said. I’m glad you were able to understand. And thanks for taking the time to reply 🧡

[@TheKnittedRaven]

This is bespoke design, not meant for mass market appeal. The designer is clear on this from the outset. By showcasing this particular project, the designer shows how his expertise can be brought to bear on an unusual client brief. Rather than judge the client's choices or reject the brief because it was not the designer's personal style, he embraced the challenge and applied himself diligently. He was able to help his client create a calm home environment consistent with his values, preferences, and functional requirements. Well done!

[@AndrewMelder]

I love these episodes. While it may not be to my taste you can’t help but admire the thought behind every decision and the fantastic execution of them.

[@julen2380]

What a stunning, stunnig design! Such clever, intricate solutions for space and use of colour. I love the notion constructing wooden units inside the building, very lego-esque. It would not fit me personally (also single but loving creature comfort like a double bed and a couch and more space for cooking) but for the client - absolutely perfect!

[@alexhawkhead]

The light switch (near the front door & bathroom) that looks like a big Lego piece - chef’s kiss.

[@renatakiss8501]

From a practical perspective, this apartment must be super easy to clean. There are seemingly no super tiny nooks that are hard to get to. I appreciate that.

[@alonaperov8839]

This is one of the most creative spaces I have seen. Obsessed with that shower head!

[@valerieking5265]

It was very interesting at the 1:51 time mark to see a BOMB SHELTER in the original layout plans. Also, each residential unit has a bomb shelter; very interesting and unfortunately, a sign of the times to come. The floor plan of this unit is both beautiful, fascinating and so well thought out; impressive!!!

[@cerenyy4333]

Amazing design 👏

[@d3peeto]

Seriously impressive apartment. One of the most beautiful and well considered spaces I’ve seen on this channel. It’s also great to have a client who embraces these sorts of designs and is open minded to embrace it further. I have to say I really do love that glass partition for efficient cooling, absolutely key detail and well executed. Bravo 👏

[@conniebruckner8190]

As to the glass partition: might be an accident waiting to happen. I hope it has some frosted parts so he can see it is there.

[@halcyonmachine2008]

oh this client has the 'tism for sure. it's delightful seeing something so, so utterly specific being fully and faithfully adhered to. i hope he lives every day with lego-filled peace.

[@I_am_Lauren]

This place is crazy! It seems like a dorm, it's so minimal and with so much concrete and wood.

[@kostaskazakis4919]

all well designed and engineered, but I would get depressed in this apartment. Is a bit to much and kind of soulless.... But each person has his taste ;-)

[@ALTRO_SG]

Well done. So refreshing to see our local talents pushing creative boundaries.

[@ambcompo09]

This is a visually interesting living arrangement that works for this particular client. It's not something I personally would want for my living space. But it's great that the designer made everything so well and reflected what the resident wanted.

[@saranshkaushik8259]

Why I eagerly wait for these videos, so soothing

[@dmitrysmykov4126]

my personal grand prix for this interior and designer 🏆 this is the best of the best of the best. love it❤

[@menutokitchen]

Clever use of carpentry and colour to accentuate certain spaces. Seems like the toilet, shower area, kitchen and bedroom all merge seamlessly into one space. That is a difficult concept but designer has executed it really well!

[@Hello_Foody_BE_Roll_here]

Uber-custom made renovation! Beautifully done. The architect knows his stuff. Thank you for sharing.

[@stackels97]

This may not be many peoples kind of thing, but the design ideas are fabulous and could be applied to suit less minimalist spaces. I particularly love the lighting choices, the blue in contrast with the wood and that orange/red circle piece.

[@estatecentralyt]

*wow* like this house is built different! The minimalist style is perfect fit for this mansion!

[@blakemann2365]

This space may look artsy but very impractical. The wooden areas around shower and toilet bowl will rot until they are made of some special materials. Everything is hidden behind cabinets which means you have to open the door even you drink a glass of water. A place for robots!

[@miriam4235]

Wow, this blows me away. Almost hypnotic to watch. Fantastic!

[@DD_Etoya]

It's a brilliant! Еvery detail is carefully thought out. I wanted to write that I could not live in such an apartment, but I thought that no one could be, except the owner, and this is perfect!

[@livicco9406]

The designer seems like a very clever, intuitive and intelligent designer.

[@eloisaamorante2044]

i actually love it! if i were to live there, I'd probably add a round table, move the fridge near the sink, add a little divider for the shower area and a bigger bed!

[@STUDIO_JC]

I love this one so much! Especially the Lego collections and the way the bomb shelter was converted!

[@m-tetsuo]

Wow, I think this is my favourite of all. Such great materials, colours and details.

[@sistemshock]

I like how minimalist the design is. So light and roomy !

[@v_iika]

I love how the designer really listened and understood the client! A lot of designers are making places for normies that look good in their portfolio, when that's not what the client needs

[@falaccio123]

So dope. Love the connection to his persona and all white legos. American Psycho vibes 😂

[@denisefletcher1608]

Wow. Would never have imagined something like this in an hdb unit 🤯

[@B__C__]

I think this might be the first Never Too Small that I have seen were I liked the layout of the space before it was redesigned. Don't get me wrong, it's interesting, but it seems a bit jumbled. and the living area a bit cramped, as if someone moved a bunch of crates into the apartment, lined them up against the walls, and then never unpacked them. The plain wood furnishing, and the hard floor make the place seem on the surface like a storage unit, and that the space facing the windows is crowded with wooden crates where the bed and hidden desk are located. And I have to ask: 'Why is the fridge in the toilet?' Even if you're not cooking a lot, and don't entertain, that seems like a bit of an inconvenience, if only the time wasted walking around the corner to the laundry, and bath area to get a glass of something to drink. 'Oops. Forgot the glass I'll have to walk back.... Oops again. There's no place to set it down.' The storage and vanity elements are very well executed, but having your refrigerator across the hall in a different room than your kitchen seems like a bit of a design stretch.

[@itsserhioball]

Incredible design! The main idea of the owner is so into me so I love each detail. Lego collection is super dope!

[@roblatchford5923]

What a beautiful and calming space. Looks perfect for one person ❤

[@mwlim1820]

This home is so good for:- No. 1 so easy to take care. No. 2 super easy house work. No. 3. Maximum dust free. Semua tutup ! Only hope that the bed area is more open or bigger instead of sleeping in a 'BOX'.

[@DD-d6d3]

I love it, especially the floating storage and bed, and the modular seating that hides under the bed.

[@tamiweber7118]

Well thought out design beautiful 🌟💯💜💯🌟

[@rinber13]

I admire when people manage to get every faucet, shower head, switch and all little bits in matching shapes and colours. I wonder if those were custom made.

[@rig2376]

I like this video because it shows new construction properties being built with a small footprint. I really enjoy the retrofitted older homes this channel shows, but it's nice for people to see that small homes can be built with all the modern conveniences right from the start.

[@hildegard6989]

I‘d live to see more small family homes (and I‘m especially interested in how the architects solve the „sound clutter“ that I assume is present and whether living small still is suitable with older kids). Love your channel. 💜

[@allakravets9820]

I myself could not live in such box, you have to be like a robot, no emotions, no feelings don't like .

[@caipngwfish]

I am seriously impressed! The open shower + the fridge just beside a washer and open toilet. WOW

[@jroygbiv]

In the words of the architect, 'unconventional', but it's a really interesting apartment. I love the glass door for conserving AC, and the navy and bleached wood is a beautiful combination.

[@liliana6715]

WOW =))) Even though this is not my cup of tea, it's truly remarkable =)))) WOW.

[@hilarystorey4601]

The fact he’s committed to sleeping in a single bed is so sad

[@Renzsu]

This is as niche as it gets, but so well done. Love the hints of blue. I can imagine that for some people this would be very soothing. I would want more organic finishes, like raw concrete or stone and maybe some plants, but yeah.. I’m not the one living there. Very cool.

[@lyndaster46]

this was amazing. some serious design and personalization that ended up so comforting.

[@SCANNO21]

For my way of living and feeling the spaces, and my decorative tastes, absolutely neither mentally nor physically comfortable, despite the obvious efficiency of the layouts. It is truly unique because more than personalized: from this point of view, a perfect success because exactly adapted to the desires and needs of the inhabitant. I really can't say if I like it or not, but if on the one hand I admire the work, on the other I would not like to live there... even if the collection of lego models is fascinating and makes me almost jealous!

[@drymobius9]

I would 100% live in this place, just filling it with plants and some artwork and 😙🤌🏼

[@TeeBoyd88]

This was the first time I'd seen a bomb shelter in the floorplan. I think of them as being outside, dug underground, lol. But turning it into a "gallery" feature was a handsome touch. The glass sliding door to close off the airconditioner whilst in use was also brilliant.

[@aud6172]

They are actually mandatory in all of Singapore's government housing, surprisingly 😊

[@meowmeowa]

this is some hardcore minimalistic home. i love it!!! would live here 10/10

[@beehongchan2911]

Love the design! Minimal, clean, beautiful piece of art itself! Brilliant!

[@cantabileloves]

even the design of the space feels like lego. great job on that! I'm sure he's happy with it. the bed could be bigger tho - feels like a coffin :')

[@whocares12345]

You have to be real confident about not having guests over if you don’t have a door to your bathroom (did I miss one?!). That definitely speaks to the specificity of the client.

[@vtupakkokirjautuu]

Now that's thinking outside the box! What an interesting space! Somehow I can't help but feel there's something natural in the flow of this space.

[@juliakwiatkowski647]

I know a lot of people wouldn't personally choose such a minimal aesthetic for themselves, but I would! When I see a space like that, I feel very relaxed. Another perk is because of my eight-month-old. With a space like that, he could really wander about and since everything is hidden away in raised cabinets, he can't get into anything that could hurt him. That's just an aside. This is truly designed so well. It is beautiful and it perfectly meets the needs of the client. I'd love to work with this architect.

[@binigi]

very minimalist but also very personal, I would not want to live in it but this is such a unique space!

[@kmarr68]

The kitchen blew me away. This apartment is amazing! What a great job!

[@EzinOz]

Wow. 10/10! I love how everything is so thought through. Amazing.

[@carlosalenduran4630]

It's beautiful

[@zoeolsson5683]

negatives The fridge on the same wall as the loo - is troubling to me. positives: visuals: the lego display in the bomb shelter, the coin, the blue bar on ceiling, function: good fit for client, easy to maintain.