NEVER TOO SMALL: Mid-Century Retro Studio Apartment Sydney 26sqm/280sqft

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Set inside a 1970’s building and untouched for 50 years, Nicholas Gurney and his clients wanted to create something open, light and airy whilst retaining the 1960’s and early 1970’s retro sensibility.
The only change to the floorplan was removing the walls encapsulating the kitchen, making one large open space, and adding a breakfast bar come dining area which separates the kitchen from the living space. A function wall in the living room contains a built-in sofa with mirrored covered drawers underneath, which disappear and make the sofa appear lighter. A queen size murphy bed hidden above the sofa rests on the ottoman when down. In the kitchen, wrapped in Australian Blackwood, the closest local equivalent to teak, the clever use of a tambour door means the pantry can be concealed when not in use. The timber surfaces wrap around from the kitchen to the bathroom, where custom terrazzo tiles cover the floor and small mosaic tiles on the walls directly reference the original kitchen tiles found in the apartment.
#smallapartment #architecture #interiordesign
Project Name: Bayside
Designer: www.nicholasgurney.com.au/
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director/Cinematographer: Colin Chee
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Jess Ruasol
Music: Polarity - Kyle Preston

[@beaudene2021]

We all think we have decent taste and 'can do it ourselves", but for me this is a testament to using professional help - especially in tricky small setups. Well done Nicholas Gurney and clients. Nailed it!

[@ihatehandles111]

Seriously... I've been dreaming of building a home on some property my partner owns and I thought I'd be fine with just a general contractor... this video just laughed in my face haha.

[@ingusch3783]

Absolutely agree! I do pride myself in having a sensible enough grasp on interior designing my place, but professionals are professionals for a reason! I'm hoping to buy a home in a few years at the latest, and since it will probably turn out to be not the biggest space, I'll definitely hire a pro then to maximise the space and functionality.

[@chezmoi42]

@@ihatehandles111 Retired interior designer here. The important thing when looking for a professional is to find someone whose ideas and capabilities dovetail with your needs and budget, and don't be afraid to speak with several people until you find one you are comfortable with. There are many designers for whom their own self-expression was prime, and there are clients who came to them for that 'look'. For me, listening to the client came first, and we always began with an in-depth examination of how they lived, what works presently, and what they want from their new/renovated space. A good designer can save you money in the long run by avoiding mistakes that need to be redone, and leave you with a home that looks like you - only better! Best of luck with your dream.

[@rndm89]

this is so important, and a key issue in a lot of the diy renovations happening today.

[@el_micha]

@@chezmoi42 Thank you for setting this straight! This is exactly how the design process should be done to get the right outcome!

[@YT-GuestAccount]

Not a fan of inbuilt-furniture only but this is such a well done excecution for a minimalist approach and the fusion of vintage + modern. Totally in awe with the kitchen. Always happy to see a full-sized cooling combo in these places. :)

[@RichieRouge206]

This is stunning. As a fan of retro, this to me is a stunning mix of modern but retro and really captures that 70s retro vibe. I am so bored with ultra modern grey/white/black - it is beyond tedious and everyone has the SAME approach. Great video as always

[@RVBadlands2015]

I love mid century looking cabinets and furniture. Retro looks so classy.

[@nancada5435]

Even though the space is incredibly small, the use of space is BRILLIANT. I LOVED the folding wall chair. That was very clever!

[@bucketofbarnacles]

Lovely. I am glad attention has been given to the acoustics, as noted by the architect referring to cork flooring. sound reverberation can detract from the loveliness of a space.

[@JAMoore-zz3ki]

@2:55 - I would rotate the footrest / bench in front of the sofa so it's parallel with the sofa, before I pulled the bed down. That way there's more balanced support for the lower half of the bed. The way the video shows it currently, the footrest/bench is in the middle of the bottom of the bed, but there's no support on either side. The bed would tilt from side to side as people were getting in or out of it.

[@moumitadutta6102]

Agree. Although the tilting might not happen as the bed looks sturdy enough

[@juderogers7946]

Very well done design for one person ~ for two, there is no way to be separate or alone, which is a lifelong need for this 78 year old!

[@JW-vd4il]

THANK YOU! When I saw this and it said it's for a couple, I thought WOW I would lose my mind. not even one easy chair to sit in if your partner is sleeping ! since the bed overtakes the sofa, what? I'd probably spend a lot of time in the bathroom, crying.

[@petalss5325]

If I were to be a minimalist I'd live here, no changes needed. Another awesome project!!

[@oops541]

Beautiful, Minimalist, Mid-Century Retro Studio Apartment. Absolutely, love it! 😍🥰😘

[@lmjohnsono]

I lived in a 60's built apartment for a few years, it had a very similar kitchen layout, including the breakfast bar. It's perfect for casual dining, and we kept a folding table around for when we had guests.

[@benbunyip]

Excellent renovation with sensitivity to the period and care for detail. This is all anyone needs.

[@kymahob]

Love this whole project! Big fan of mid century. I am really drawn to some of the design elements in this project; the hidden bed side storage, the 2 mirrors in the corner of the kitchen for depth, the clever “cut out” handle for the bathroom cabinet! The colours and materials used throughout makes it class! Thank you for showing us these!

[@willistaylor4077]

As a child of the early 1970's, I feel so at home with this. ♥️♥️

[@PeterCrooks-ss4vs]

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.

[@Kol1bri]

Wow.. Not my style, but designed to perfection and with this project I feel clients and designer were 100% aligned. Amazing piece to showcase, thank you!

[@keenalou595]

Minimal and mid-century vibes are my favs. That Tasmanian black wood looks incredible, especially with the white counter tops!

[@sunspot42]

Great use of a tiny space with fairly low ceilings. Functional but also lovely, with many authentic callouts to the period.

[@gus473]

👍🏼 Yes! I felt like a time traveler, and often miss my "old" Scandinavian furnishings! 😎✌🏼

[@anniestumpy9918]

I would say those are completely normal ceilings, at least if you happen to not be rich and have to live in an affordable place. The super bright flooded with natural light apartments with 12 foot ceilings that basically are there norm in architecture videos is not the norm for 90 % of people.

[@mariana5133]

"unashamably minimalist" quote of the year

[@BottomAndre]

Architect is amazing. His designs are some of my favourites

[@cgurl]

Not an architect

[@tinamorgan6521]

I like his designs, too. Did he author some other projects here on NTS? And- oh, the bathroom- genius

[@titania9541]

I’m glad to see a small space that doesn’t compromise on the kitchen. I love to cook and most of the kitchens on this channel would be hard to use for more than a quick occasional meal and would force you to eat out most of the time. I appreciate that they were able to fit plenty of counter space, a full size fridge and storage in such a small space.

[@TheTazmaniyak]

So beautiful. I disagree that its “basically unliveable” as someone mentioned earlier. The brief was clearly for minimalists who know the amount of stuff they actually NEED rather than so many things to STORE! Obviously this is a very small space, 26sqm is tiny, and that requires a lot of discipline to use and keep orderly but I think they have done a fantastic job with the brief. It’s a shame they didn’t spend any money on making the apartment more energy efficient with those ancient old sliding doors. Australia continues to build and renovate at standards much lower than Europe or USA when it comes to energy efficiency. That said, this is not what this channel is about. Best feature was the roller door storage in the kitchen!

[@tuppence937]

I also love that roller door storage in the kitchen. A great feature.

[@SC10928]

Why can’t minimalist spaces have comfortable seating? Otherwise a beautiful space…

[@mjfab74]

@@SC10928 minimalism has a stoic nature associated with it. a slight disconfort is a good thing, it keeps them on their toes and make them appricate more what they have rather than what they want.

[@jasmineo104]

@@SC10928 I think the couch looks deep and easy to spread out on! Obviously it would be difficult to watch TV there but the clients don’t watch tv so it makes sense. Theoretically, if I were to stay there I think I would have a tv screen that could be set up on the kitchen counter & stored in a cupboard when im not using it

[@deborah675]

Not sure if it’s the case here - in some apartments you’re not allowed to change windows & doors as they are need to match from the out side

[@Mgraf06]

I love how

[@karakarapi7963]

oh i think this is among my top 5 favorite apartments you've featured, i love it so much!!

[@madi4481]

@@alterego157 These people on this channel are nuttss drones and brainwashed to accept their slavery to rulers. On every video they say it's their fave shoebox cage to dwell in to get the privilege of running on the hamster wheel of slavery in cities

[@The7rights]

It’s simply so beautiful without any fancy and unnecessary glittered designs. The minimalist approach to its interior with soft colours makes it elegant and desirable.

[@alcea13]

I love the rolling cabinet door on the kitchen!!!

[@carolyneryan7152]

Everything about this apartment feels right. It has good Feng shui and no claustrophobic feeling to be got here. I love the attention to detail in the kitchen especially.

[@Rubiecat]

now THIS is a small appartment alright ! I admire how they dealt with this space as the result is both beautiful and functional. I can't imagine living there with another person however, for me this is a single person space

[@thebigmeancarmen]

Love the attention to detail. The space for a finger to open the mirrored cabinet is excellent. I’m a new fan of this architect

[@Yasmin-yf1dq]

Now I'm definitely a maximalist but this was really nicely done! I really like minimalist things that also prove you can have pops of colour too to enhance your space

[@ConceptsInHealth]

Nicely done! I would have to add one comfy chair--maybe on castors so it could be moved around as needed-and a floating lift-up desk under the wall art--one that even when lowered, leaves a narrow “shelf” for a console effect. Also, an easy-to-care-for rug would warm up the space a bit, but all personal preferences, I realize! I guess I’m not quite as minimalistic as are they😁

[@sitansusekharpanda3431]

it's actually so beautiful....so well utilized every inch of 280sqft. ♥️ Regards.

[@carmietatertots9900]

I think this might be my favorite design so far. The use of mirrors was outstanding 👏👏👏

[@conniebruckner8190]

Yes! that is indeed an excellent feature.

[@rzuue]

I really like the colors used, especially the wood looks so good! But I think I would've made the kitchen smaller to have more space. I used to live in a one-room for a while where I got used to sitting on the floor for eating and such, which really makes sense in a small space. It's easy to put up the small table and to fold and put it away after eating. In exchange the relaxing area with sofa etc can be made bigger and more comfy. Maybe there's even be space for a work desk

[@ericastivison121]

Room for a work desk would be nice now that WFH is more widely accepted.

[@MM-Iconoclast]

Agreed. The living space could have been larger and the kitchen smaller. The enclosed (small) kitchen in the original design wasn't even half bad - it didn't intrude into the living space the way the new kitchen did.

[@amalialavric7164]

Nicholas Gurney, the master of designing small amazing spaces! Videos of his work are so relaxing to watch! 😍

[@IshikaShanai]

Hands down the most gorgeous kitchen and bathroom I have ever seen in my life.

[@charliegreenawalt867]

I think this architect is so talented and his attention to detail very impressive. Always look forward to seeing his smart work on here. Can never watch one just once.

[@cgurl]

He’s not an architect

[@HayleyTief]

I think this is my favorite apartment tour yet. Absolutely loved it. Felt way larger than 280 sqft.

[@mementovivere2]

One of the best projects you have ever featured! I like that this is a home to live in, there is so much attention to functional details. Not like some other architectural vanity projects.

[@conniebruckner8190]

You've done a magnificent job in such a small space! I wouldn't hessitate to live here! I love the brass details. Not so much the brown tiles, but in this place it fits and is not only a reminder of the way it was, it is recycling of still usable materials. Bravo!

[@nulliusinverba3701]

beautiful, practical, full of harmony...and these fantastic little details - such as opening a bathroom cabinet

[@deecunningham9719]

he is literally my favorite architect. i love the design and custom features even tho i would have chosen a different color scheme. it is beautifully done.

[@Eva_OrtizLopez]

We love the ideas & the creativity of Nicholas. The wooden furniture is Awesome!!!! The space feels more and more bigger than before, beautiful and more easy to live the next 50 years 😉😉😉😉💋

[@georgewithmore8972]

I've always thought that studio apartments are a very convenient type of home, for several reasons. Not only for people who live alone but for small families, as long as this type of housing is adapted to a simple and "light" lifestyle. Your apartment looks fresh, peaceful, inviting and cozy. I think the color palette suits it a lot. My apartment is much darker and, in order to make our living room more functional, my wife and I added an Arco lamp from Barcelona Designs and a small shelf with some books. This video has given me inspiration for some other ideas. Thanks for sharing it! :)

[@josettebanks3483]

Folding wall chair, mirrors under the sofa, brass throughout... so charming, sophisticated and feasible! If I only had a studio this would be it. Bravo

[@libbypetersen3523]

The bedside storage niches are particularly thoughtful. Love the curves throughout also. Well done.

[@MG478]

That 60/70‘s vibes are on point. Amazing

[@kwong6884]

What is really lovely about this apartment is the strong nod to its mid-century past whilst updating it for current modern living

[@creationslandscapedesigns]

Now this is a well thought out space plan.

[@alexandradickson1995]

This is one of my favorites. I could have watched twice as much focusing just on the details. Brilliant.

[@amandawhite3851]

Love the mid-century nod! Just the right amount to give it a fresh look. We'll done!

[@mackereltabbie]

Very nice, and very functional. If you're enough of a minimalist to be comfortable living full time in a flat this small, I think you'd be happy with the amount of storage they've managed to squeeze in

[@emziegirl1977]

This! It is so incredibly well thought out. Good job 🙏🏻

[@MACMIKY83]

Beside the kitchen lamp I LOVE ALL THE REST OF IT and I would move in tomorrow🙋🏻‍♀️

[@lauriemorris9175]

Although I don't love the mustard color, I do absolutely love every square inch of this apartment. So clever, so functional, so beautifully executed. 🤩

[@karateana7593]

I love 70's style when it's done well and this is perfect, I want one!

[@homejournalist]

Beautiful, thoughtful design. If I were to live there with a spouse I'd add a comfy (retractable-Ikea-size/style) lounge chair (to sometimes relax alone) and a larger piece of artwork.

[@dianebaker5243]

Beautiful functional apartment. 👍🥰

[@GradKat]

It’s fabulous! I want to move right in. The design is beautiful and every detail is so carefully thought out.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

The mirrored drawers under the couch make so much sense!

[@VeganChickInOz]

What a beautiful mesmerising video, very meditative. Love the space. The kitchen is amazing, and the whole place just so soothing and zen. Gorgeous.

[@michaelnajera7958]

Finally mid century modern!

[@angelac1009]

What a wonderful Design concept. I Love the idea that this is modern design but still very middle century. Great job looks great.

[@GregCurtin45]

Well thought out design and there is room for a desk to be added. Love the brown tile backsplash & kitted bathroom as it matches well with the bronze.

[@mypassportpicsux]

Simply beautiful.

[@debygiannioti4271]

Very stylish approach to mid century and minimalism!!!

[@randatabase]

In awe of this designer's ability of turning spaces into homes!

[@brigittev9917]

It's a lovely space, love the bathroom and kitchen.

[@molokuro]

The mirror drawer on the floor is genius!

[@clovermark39]

Yes beautifully done. So functional and practical but looks great too.

[@AJ-td5fk]

this is so well designed. im floored!

[@final_friday]

The house I inherited and now live in is from the same era. I could tell just by looking at the thumbnail for this video. The architect really nailed the aesthetic.

[@nopetuber]

Very smart use of the space and not gimmicky

[@nandabagus8575]

the design is not only beautiful to look at, but also very smart and functional. Nice!

[@neutralmultiverse8589]

Yay Nicholas Gurney! I missed you!

[@wheresmydesk.]

I personally rlly love the kitchen

[@ButacuPpucatuB]

Really nice! I like the continuous use of curves. The colours used were harmonious too. It’s wonderful to see the flat, and not too many things are blocking the view. This was a great collaboration with the client and designer.

[@ruthbrewis957]

One of the best designed small space I have seen for a while. I minimal colour scheme, and round handles really work well throughout.

[@carltongirl95]

Wow that's a really small space (but being in inner Sydney I imagine it wasn't cheap to begin with lol) but so well redesigned the murphy bed was a great idea the kitchen has loads of storage and the bathroom was beautiful...well done and I hope the client's are happy with the result's 🙂

[@michaellai543]

Such a thoughtful design

[@ricolacranberry1727]

A well-functioning, welcoming and cozy home, which definitely inspires me a lot to design my own studio room as a minimalist, too. So in love with this episode.

[@Bessunger]

Excellent Ideas to increase limited spaces. I lived in a 25 sqm app and would have loved to have such living ideas...

[@sjames4054]

Wow! As a minimalist I would happily live in this beautiful home long term. Everything about it is perfect. Great job!

[@sh-kl5im]

Simple and beautiful

[@katherinejacinto3132]

I simply love his designs!

[@lauramcquade2438]

What a great use of this space. The kitchen's lovely, the bathroom is better - everything is so well scaled. Nice job!

[@gus473]

👍🏼 Authentic! A superb take on those times, and a very livable result! (Even with the brass! 😉) 😎✌🏼

[@proceleb_sh]

He is so good in it! Like really, I like his projects

[@nilomyki]

Beautiful done.

[@vwood2]

Gorgeous woodworking, and a beautiful light filled space!

[@devin309]

Very well done, minimal but not cold. Love the color scheme that was chosen.

[@maimai-ob6pp]

Love this apartment, this is my favourite so far. Love the colors, the built-in furniture, the materials, everything! The design of the bathroom cabinet door is amazing🤯

[@achyanurrajab776]

The bathroom looks so chique! I love the floor and the use of the same tiles like in the kitchen. Makes everything cohesive. Well done!

[@paulawakefield7869]

❤ the new take on 70s style. Fab! 👏🇬🇧

[@themangodiaries284]

Mr. Gurney killed it again, just loved it 🥰

[@jesssoucy4976]

This is impeccably designed, well done!

[@jesstucker6201]

what an incredible reimagining of this apartment. i'm amazed at how well the revitalizing of such a tiny space was executed, thank you for sharing!

[@BlessedForever888]

Wow this makes me feel nostalgic

[@ginosantos2063]

This place is so amazing!

[@tannyainthecity]

that kitchen and that bathroom is just /chef's kiss ❤ love the uniform tile for the two. the bathroom's floor is also nice. honestly just super lovely

[@janecunningham8665]

What a lovely use of a tiny space - love the nod to mid century including that wonderful pop of yellow.

[@markaralvin7919]

Hello Jane