NEVER TOO SMALL: Micro Apartment With Multifunctional Mirrored Pod, Melbourne 27sqm/291sqft

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Located in a 70's walk-up in the inner seaside suburb of St. Kilda in Melbourne, the heart of this studio apartment’s redesign by the talented team at tsai Design is a majestic floor-to-ceiling mirrored copper pod. This multifunctional centrepiece, which wraps around the existing bathroom wall and curves towards the sleeping area, houses both kitchen and bedroom storage with vibrant internal colours and includes a hidden fold-out table for added versatility. The rest of the apartment remains open, with thoughtful space-saving features, such as a curtain to reveal or conceal the bedroom, an extended shelf from the TV unit into the bedroom, and a couch with a flexible back for dining or lounging, that allow the space to evolve throughout the day without feeling crowded or difficult to convert.
#smallapartment #architecture #interiordesign
Ep. 184
Project Name: St.Kilda Micro Sanctuary
Architect: www.tsaidesign.com.au
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director & Cinematographer: Nam Tran
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Jessica Ruasol
Music: wt by REW, Calm On by Lalinea, Wednesday Afternoon by FAIR GAME & Say No More by Julian Hartwell from Artlist.io

[@websoup]

I remember this team. I also like their previous works on NTS. The copper joinery is very clever but at the same time lends warmth to the room as opposed to the usual mirror. Well done.

[@Eiboshi]

Could you give the link to the video of their previous work ? Thanks !

[@jorickcaberio1865]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGW9ap9rrr-nock

[@kentcs5367]

Yes please share the link, thank you!

[@ingaafanasyeva4936]

​@@Eiboshikzbin.info/www/bejne/aGW9ap9rrr-nocksi=cpzc5ZHyg5YcezOt

[@tenleyjoy]

It’s not the same team, but this project has similar elements: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHPUaWyYbr-Fh9ksi=BWupv8I-uDRjpSIw

[@natalia_juniper]

I was surprised how much you managed to fit into a 27 sq m room. In the video it looks like a big room but in reality it is small. We had been living in a 30 sq m studio for a while and all we could fit in there was a wardrobe, a bed, a tiny sofa, a small refrigerator, a TV stand (which we used as a kitchen unit) and a small closet with a sink on top and all the household items inside. We were lucky that we didn't need winter clothes there because there would have been nowhere to put them. That apartment was more like a hotel room in size.

[@l.a.3479]

😲

[@barbarar5869]

I am surprised that everyone loves the copper pod. I think it looks interesting, but I find it overwhelming and jarring in such a small space.

[@miyayume_eclectic_dream]

The pop of colors were unexpected. I do love them. Such a minimalistic look but also has a fun touch to it. Best part: Bathroom has a window 🙀 I am very old-fashioned in that regard.

[@lukthere2]

All bathrooms should have windows 👊

[@miyayume_eclectic_dream]

@@lukthere2 YES! But not all have. For the second time I live in one without 😔

[@bhotsnax]

These designers did a great job creating this space; especially how the kitchen disappears because of the view.

[@tallibethau7713]

It's basically just a tiny room, doesn't really feels like an apartment. Yet, the team has done a superb job fitting and arranging everything into a sensible layout. Simple but still has a feature piece! Great job!

[@evaperson3976]

That sofa is brilliant in this space. Couch, dining banquet and spare bed.

[@anniehaunted]

I usually don't comment but this is a masterpiece! I can't believe its only 29sqm. This copper mirror is so unique and clever. The whole design is so fun and light at the same time. I looooove it!

[@everline_builders]

Amazing work Hidy and Jack! Even though it was a small apartment we did come across a number of challenges given the building was constructed in the 1970's but we worked well as a team to overcome these issues. The final result speaks for itself. Well done! 👏👏👏

[@tsaidesign7210]

Thanks Damian, couldn't have done it without you and John, so thank you!

[@pippalewisNYC]

The copper joinery is definitely the star of the space. I really like how it extends the kitchen window, making it seem so much longer than it actually is, bringing so much more light into the space.

[@zeruzio1345]

It looks great and I love the concealed entry, for me the cleaning of the mirrored finish would make it a big no personally. Appreciate the honesty about this being an AirBNB for the majority of the time as well.

[@jnbond]

I totally felt like this would be a great vacay stay and then to learn it's an Airbnb. lol

[@JessieBanana]

I don’t think the mirrored finish is as big of a cleaning deal because you’re mainly interacting with a small part of the doors. You would never be cleaning the entire surface regularly. I have an appliance in stainless steel I thought would be terrible to keep shiny, but as I only touch a few buttons I only have to polish a limited surface.

[@HETBUDEO]

Zoom calls while sitting on the toilet are now a reality😂

[@l.a.3479]

🤣

[@hotelierid9029]

The copper joinery is so beautiful and make the space more elegant. The bathroom is also very pretty. Consider the space is very limited, this is a very well thought design.

[@ske3230]

That's a really cool and original idea, it does have a really elegant look. The bathroom door opening directly into the toilet and also facing the bed looks a bit off to me, maybe switching the toilet and shower position or just finding a different spot for the door would have been nicer. The bed area just looks a little less refined from the rest of the apartment. But that couch is a really good concept, it could also just double as a spare bed and I like the swinging doors, really helps when there is less space. It would actually be nice if the people would discuss the difficulties they had with the project and how that influenced the final result.

[@todortotev5399]

Considering they were working with 27 sm2, they did wonderfully. The video did not show the storage space for shoes, which I assume is somewhere near the entrance door. I especially liked their solution for the "two people being in different meetings at the same time" problem, which I used to have with my ex when we both worked from home. With slight tweaks to the kitchen area, I would live 100% of the time in such place. But considering the limitations - it's a temporary home for someone who does not cook, the architects took the right decision to simplify the kitchen.

[@Frederiekje221]

The shoes go in that pale blue architectural stool, I think, or in that pale shopper bag on top of the stool.

[@TheSecretChateau]

Or under the bed? I would have added storage there.

[@fabioalbuquerque6154]

So, I assume that the problem was huge indeed ("ex")

[@mdeeaonetwothree5162]

They’ve managed to make a pokey apartment look luxurious as well as being functional. Well done🎉

[@kassarin]

This is peak Never Too Small content for me.

[@PixelShade]

The only thing I don't understand is why they chose to have the kitchen sink next to the reflective copper surface. I have a 21sqm apartment built in the 1940s here in Sweden, with a stock "kitchen cabinet". The sink positioned very similarly and you'd be amazed of how much water hits the wall.

[@EricaGamet]

I'm also thinking it would be hard to rinse dishes, etc. there... my elbow would definitely get smacked on the cabinet twice a day!

[@rogue265]

Most likely so they could reuse the existing kitchen services - the floor would be concrete, and relatively expensive to replumb.

[@salwakk]

When the video started, I thought that was 2 screens showing us day vs night times 😅

[@michellelarson9983]

I know this channel is bad for everyone for one reason or other

[@podraje]

Same! 😂

[@Suho1004]

I really like how they worked color into the storage, not to mention the copper joinery, so that the place isn't so stark. The cork floors are another great trick to soften the feel of the place and bring in a natural touch. Overall, an impressive use of a small space. My one qualm would be that no one can use the toilet when the foldout desk is down, but I suppose that would just be a relatively minor inconvenience if the desk isn't used often.

[@l.a.3479]

That little space is claustrophobic. Also, the odor from the bathroom! 🫢🤢

[@littleraeofsunshine]

Prime example of why a good architect is worth the $$$ Beautiful space!

[@angrymexikan9493]

i would get crazy keeping those mirrors clean

[@tuppence937]

Love that mirror finish copper joinery so much. Unlike others - the chance of finger print marks on the mirrored finish would not worry me at all. The curtaining of the sleeping area looks stylish and functional.

[@nama1243]

The study position is sooo bad, imagine your other partner want to use the toilet and you were sitting there using it for work or something 😅 I think just having a table on living/dining area is enough for setting up the office.

[@sachihirono1657]

The copper wall was nothing but Brilliant!! It looks magical, I first thought it was some sort of transparent screen or something. What a cleaver idea...!!

[@uniqdzign2]

The copper pod, is superb, and so too it the general layout of the apartment. The mirrored floor under the cabinets really extends the visual impact. As a minimalist, I really resonate with this design throughout. Excellent job!

[@diegaah]

This is an elegant division and use of space. The doubled duty sofa is brilliant. I think seat height adjustments will need to be accounted for when dining seating is activated at the sofa. A series of cushion prop ups would make this sofa-dining table configuration more ergonomic.

[@cirene9590]

Well done for such a small space. Having a laundry service in the building is really helpful. Like this small space because it is all in one floor with a proper bed. Great use of the copper mirror.

[@Alicia-ij6gt]

Full marks for the cork flooring. The kitchen is so seamless, I didn’t even see it at first. Great example of a hero piece of joinery, incorporating the bathroom. And as usual, the high production values of the video sets NTS well above other interiors videos.

[@davonpointer2310]

I love the copper pod, so unique. A beautifully simple execution. Love it!

[@jennieanderson5291]

At <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="365">6:05</a>, when she opened the door to the copper cabinet and the interior was hyacinth blue...I actually gasped because I loved it so much. What an effect! I have always loved copper, and to have an entire copper pillar-like structure glowing in the corner of the apartment is really, really special. My only concern would be exactly how difficult it would be to clean it, since most of it is storage space and has to be touched, but it's still totally worth it, IMO. Most tiny studio apartments feel really claustrophobic and crowded, while still being really impractical. This feels airy and open, and it still has storage and a usable kitchen. Seriously...well done. One of the best designs I've ever seen on this channel.

[@slowbro1337]

If yall design and manufacture those mirror pods, I could see myself purchasing such a space for use on multiple properties. It's a good design with a refined, harmonious esthetic that balances into whatever unit it's placed in. Well done.

[@wendyannh]

It’s just basic cabinetry with a thin metal veneer, and only two walls of it. Any decent cabinetmaker could build the same or similar.

[@janeb3024]

Although I do not care for mirrored surfaces, this space uses them tastefully and creatively.

[@AmyAnnetteHenion]

Absolutely gorgeous! That copper unit is inspired. But the folding wall desk drives me crazy - having to clear it and fold it down every time someone needed to access the bathroom would do my head in!

[@l.a.3479]

Plus the odor from the bathroom! 🤢

[@csieweng]

It's an extra desk

[@l.a.3479]

Yes, we're aware. And it's in a bad place. ​@@csieweng

[@TamaraJoy7]

I absolutely loved the clever ideas in this design so much that I had to rewatch and take notes! Favourite ideas were: the couch design, the mirror coppered curved wall , the simple low level kitchen design in front of the widow, the long dining table/extra kitchen bench space, the internal cupboard colours, the curtain around the bed… I would love to stay here one day in St Kilda!

[@robynwilliams460]

Love this apartment!

[@jonathanchadwick8093]

Absolutely superb work. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.

[@sharlah4057]

I love how the kitchen is right at the window. I can imagine mentally borrowing the outdoor space whenever I get up to make a cuppa etc.

[@jnbond]

That rose-copper-joinery-hued mirror wall gives the illusion of transparency even though it's not! Just wild!

[@conniebruckner8190]

Lovely to see what you've done with this small studio apartment! Opting for copper certainly makes it outstanding! Glad to note you chose block-out curtains for the bedroom area.

[@mbr4797]

The study desk near the toilet? Come on guys 😬

[@merilet]

It’s just a secondary study placement for concurrent meetings

[@mbr4797]

@@merilet still would search a more convenient place near the bed or smth

[@l.a.3479]

​@@meriletOdors...🤢

[@merilet]

@@l.a.3479 o’ door…

[@stephenbrickwood1602]

No upper cabinet in the kitchen, just a wide open space gives a feeling of massive elbow room. But warm enclosure, not as intense as the Farnsworth House Illinois. The bed space is always ready for a rest.

[@tiffanyheng671]

Really like the well thought design . functional , airy and aesthetically pleasing to the senses .

[@B__C__]

I love it when they show off a space's unique lighting fixtures in action.

[@samanthachia1491]

Is it weird for me to go, "Hey, it's Jack!" lol. Truly an iconic NTS addition

[@TheSushmaHomeSellingTeam]

That great feature is so iconic and dependable. 🥰🥰

[@canyoudoitagain7978]

The living should be close to the window making most of the light and views. I think the original setting was a lot better.

[@Em-uy9wj]

“Breaking up the space expands the journey through the apartment” wow so well said this is my favorite in a long time!!

[@janggo7440]

A study in the narrow hallway while facing the door where you poop is uhhh that.

[@vincentiPad]

wow this on was actually amazingly thoughtful and well designed.

[@enisyap1087]

So that’s what a call a tiny home! Fabulous ❤

[@sanguineaurakzai1867]

Amazing design specially that copper joinery ❤

[@avinashmirani3177]

absolutely LOVE this space!!!!

[@AndrePolimar]

Definitely one of the best project I’ve seen on NTS - great job!!

[@davidowen2396]

Lovely finish. However, not being able to stand and gaze out of the window, relaxed with a drink (I think the kitchen acts as a "barrier" in it's new position) would detract from it's functionality for me. I would have worked hard to keep the lounge area being able to enjoy that huge window.

[@deanisplemoni]

This is such a fresh design for such a small space!

[@rayrayrayrayray79]

It's BEAUTIFUL!!!

[@trisho6146]

Nothing short of miracle worker's. Amazing 😍

[@SuzyShip]

This is incredibly clever and stylish! However, I have two practical concerns: Can the backrest of the sofa be fixed in place once moved? Otherwise, it might be uncomfortable to lean on. Also, when the fold-up study is extended, doesn't it block the entrance to the toilet?

[@l.a.3479]

Yes, it does block the bathroom door. And imagine the odors coming from the bathroom while you're trying to work! 🤢

[@hoiyingwong6892]

The backrest is heavy so once it s moved, it will stay in place.

[@winstonchurchill571]

The only thing I would change is the bed, I would put a wall bed to hide it and maximize the space. The illusion of multiplying the space with the mirror wall is amazing.

[@angelaballard3929]

Yes, given it's only used a few months a year.

[@wendyannh]

Those aren’t very comfortable, though, and no one would want to sleep on one for months on end.

[@winstonchurchill571]

@@wendyannh New one are very beautiful, solid and we'll made. You can hide them in the ceiling, in the wall etc... That's my personal taste since the space is small and most of the time you don't need the bed. You gain more space and the place looks even bigger.

[@wendyannh]

@@winstonchurchill571 Very much an individual choice.

[@Frederiekje221]

Ooh, this is jam-packed with brilliant ideas.

[@RottenlyMoodyChild]

Jack, the NTS OG!!! I still rewatch and think about his Type Street Apartment all the time 💚

[@justthen]

that copper pod I believe is a fingerprint magnet...... looks kinda nice but will be nightmare to a lazy person like me 😂😂

[@faeinthebay]

If I were to create a similar apartment, I would use a matte finish. You would still get a bold piece of furniture in the middle of the space, but with a finish that hides dust and fingerprints. I also wouldn't bother with a mirrored kickboard under the copper, since it will get damaged over time.

[@kathakailin]

haha I thought the same!😂 it looks beautiful though and really smart design overall

[@mrs.cappuccino7738]

Jack chen is back!

[@candylove1234]

This is beautifully done, i love the pops of colour inside the copper unit ❤

[@csieweng]

Love the multifunctionality that includes the wall! This is possibly the best among so many bests.

[@susanshannon1984]

Amazing and thoughtful use of space...all of the finishes and layout create seamless transitions throughout and bring a lightness & airiness to the apartment. The curved edges allow the eye to travel easily throughout. I love that the toilet was rendered separately from the rest of the bathroom and with a pivot door; essential element. I also love all of the soundtracks NTS posts with their videos; they create such a special ambiance.

[@komiiology]

Loved this !! I can actually picture myself living here like the kitchen space with the natural light of windows and the storage and the mirror effect they have created doesn't make it look small.

[@zoey9773]

Absolutely love this apartment!

[@kn58657]

Thanks, I love it

[@JerriCouncil]

I love this apartment. Absolutely STUNNING!

[@danieladeutsch1708]

How clever! Practical and beautiful! I am impressed!

[@oscar_ge]

I'm so impressed!

[@rozinant1237]

Masterful solution.

[@guso-trungngo]

so wonderful

[@meremeth]

Such a beautiful and creative transformation!

[@user-fp3fw9dh6o]

It looks very clean and a little futuristic and I love it!

[@the_trevoir]

Wow, amazing. So lovely!

[@vf9322]

I just love his work! The space is so efficiently used, it's awesome!

[@l.a.3479]

*the

[@phoebebaker1575]

Beautiful!

[@svetlanazhigalina]

This is a masterly work!

[@CMMMMMMMMM]

The copper cupboard is so cool, love it

[@1964Msbea]

what I like about this studio is the middle couch with the movable backrest - doubles as a sofa for living area and seat for dining space. the copper mirror finish isn't for me. I just wish the bedroom space could be interchanged with the bath area, thereby giving more privacy for the bedroom as you enter the unit. Overall, designing a small face is tricky and they have managed to make it uncluttered with some flexibility and minimal furniture conversion.

[@SF-ru3lp]

I'm a total fan of white. I find copper unit distracting. I like it reflective but i'd like it white to blend in with the living area rather than stand out in the space. Personal taste on mh part. Great design layout-wise. G Ire

[@sirreynolds1681]

Great ideas in this makeover

[@dianebaker5243]

Lovely video.👍🥰

[@skulltaylor1616]

This is brilliant

[@lizn828]

This is so beautifully done!

[@melanim9943]

Masterfully designed. These two are real artists

[@JessLaSoul]

The perfect place for a Murphy-bed-solution i.m.o.. Along with the dining table and chair the bed kind of disrupts the design alignment.

[@c.5212]

Stunning!!

[@vickynolan6449]

Very clever design.

[@annade435]

Wow. How great! Congrats.❤🌷👍

[@mernuhh]

Stunning.

[@brendangarske553]

That lounge is way too low to eat at the table from.

[@impopquiz]

Add a cushion if it’s too low? 😅

[@l.a.3479]

​@@impopquizNo.

[@l.a.3479]

Plus I wouldn't want food and/or drink spilled on it.

[@anonanon1791]

It’s very well designed. The space looks huge.

[@tatianaprotsenko6285]

Many thanks for a couple of fresh and cool ideas!

[@tinerudinger2682]

I love it !!!!

[@orlareid3769]

Beautiful

[@kaizer8280]

One of the best transformations of a small space Ive ever seen. Brilliant intelligent design!