NEVER TOO SMALL: Architect Couple’s Atrium Style Small Home, Buenos Aires - 60sqm/646sqft

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Nestled tightly between a number of larger blocks in inner city Buenos Aires and measuring exactly 7m x 7m x 7m, the aptly named Casa Cubo (cube house) is home to owner/architects Matias Michatek and Torunn Vaksvik Skarstad of Arqs. MichatekSkarstad who designed and renovated the home themselves. Originally a typical PH (propiedad horizontal or horizontal property) style layout commonly found in Buenos Aires and structured around an atrium, the couple set out to create their own take on the style, prioritizing outdoor living and the areas they would use most. Adding 2.5 storeys to the property, a half floor for a home office and a second floor for a large custom built wooden kitchen with dining space that opens onto an outdoor terrace via a set of glass panel doors that run the length of the back wall. A multifunctional metal staircase structure that blends seamlessly into the wall connects the storeys and contains the bathroom, laundry, powder room and plenty of storage, creating a clean, simplistic and highly functional small home.
#tinyhouse #architecture #interiordesign
Project Name: Casa Cubo
Architect: / casacubito
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director: Nam Tran
Cinematographer: Fernando Schapochnik
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Jessica Ruasol
Music: Moonlight, Cold Sugar & Thread the Needle by Sun Wash

[@1234eau]

The light in this space is amazing! The large windows do not compromise privacy because the design was so well thought out. It’s like a cocoon or an oasis- and it didn’t require large amounts of space to accomplish! Also, love the fluidity of the indoor/outdoor living. This is easily one of my favorites on this channel! ❤

[@camillelemmens1745]

@Late Notice What are you talking about? Both the living room and bedroom have windows, as does the study...

[@smallhouseinthemeadow6131]

@Late Notice It is the city. They may not want to look inside their neighbors house.

[@fatihaelalaoui2066]

totally agree w this one felt the same way

[@lucaspbertoli2709]

@Late Notice its a very local distribution, its called ph, were a houseland is divided and you enter your own house by a very thin hallway that distributes to all houses. They dont have windows to the "outside because the ""outside" are neighbours. Thats why this house is very instrospective in its layout.

[@anushrirajhansa194]

@Late Notice a window doesn't just serve the purpose of a good view. It's most important purpose is providing light and ventilation, which all these windows are doing.

[@CB0408]

One of my favourite homes of this channel so far. They somehow managed to make a very spacious and comfortable living space out of very unfavorable conditions. Truly a piece of art. Kudos!

[@KasSommers]

That's a gorgeous apartment. I'd add a handrail to the stairs for safety. It's quite a large space for a never-too-small apartment. They were fortunate to have that rooftop terrace that they could convert into a spacious kitchen.

[@d.fenestrator9529]

Imagine feeling sick, walking down the stairs, and falling over the edge. Ooof!

[@geollizzie2459]

I’d agree, my house is 60m2 and I wouldn’t class it as particularly small!

[@sophiegallizioli8517]

As a mother of a small child, the stairs gave me chills!!!

[@Rubiecat]

yeah I don't think this counts as small but it's not obscenely big like the houses on big architecture channels AND it's a smart and efficient design so I'll let it slide lol

[@lws7394]

7x7x7m could be like a 2 story 7x7m, good for 98sqm living space. that fits easily for a urban family appartment with 3-4 bedrooms (and a 40sqm kitchen/living room).

[@f2depth]

Never Too Small quietly but confidently assures us yet again that the world is a big and wonderful place filled with clever and talented people in clever and wonderful spaces. Thanks for taking us to such a special spot in beautiful Buenos Aires!

[@thinkplanetearth2946]

My favorite part was the upstairs with the kitchen/dining/outdoor space. Loved the lightness and materials used. And the mezzanine level for an office was a great idea, though I wonder if there was a way to make it into an office/guest room thus allowing for someone to stay over.

[@femaletrouble]

That wood in the kitchen cabinetry tho! When I hear plywood I immediately sigh because whenever I see people building with it, they leave it looking like boring old plywood, and it just looks awful raw and unfinished to me. But this was treated so that it looked warm and polished. Gorgeous! Also, you'd think with the half-bath there would also be guest bedding somewhere. I guess you can crash on the couch. lol

[@jeffstumpf9129]

Yes, a couch is multi-purpose.

[@Aelonius2]

I love it; but I am also curious what would happen if you would swap the living room and the kitchen around. To me, that seems more like a comfortable idea because I spend more time in the living room than the kitchen.

[@Vacartu]

I can’t say it enough… thank you, thank you, thank you for the floor plans and before photos. It’s so nice to see and understand the changes made. Great job as always.

[@SweetManaT]

They used light and shade so well. This apartment has a phenomenal lofty feeling to it. A beautifully designed space. No wasted space, but it doesn’t feel cluttered or cramped.

[@insertyourquarters]

Buenos Aires properties are probably some of my favourites on this channel. Particularly because all the spaces are different and create amazing ways of using every part of the footprint.

[@angeldelatorre7758]

simply the best "never too small" i've seen ever

[@obidean3964]

Beautiful little house. The kitchen area located on the elevated floor is quite ingenious, resulting a big area for itself and the fact it's connected to outdoor terrace make it seem like a great hangout place with friends. The office on the mezzanine level between 2 staircases is also surprisingly quite big space and the magnet post board on the metal wall is small thing but it's a very neat idea. The dark wood floor is an interesting choice but it gives off vintage vibe, add tasteful charm to the whole minimalist, mostly white interior setting. What surprise me the most is the 2 bathrooms, a rarity in small space. Big props to the designers for the amazing packaging work. Truly inspiring 👏🏼

[@sianthesheep]

Wow - I'm blown away by this innovative and imaginative design! It really gets the most from this small space whilst keeping a sense of spaciousness.

[@Raky2427]

I love this build! If I had to change one thing, I’d add a recessed handrail, to the staircase. It wouldn't even compromise the aesthetic.

[@traceyr251]

Wow! I love this house! One of my favorite houses I've seen on this channel.

[@berndeckenfels]

That two face patio bench storage is brilliant

[@TeeBoyd88]

The terrace/kitchen/dining was a stunning finish to this video. Well done.

[@tortiesrule7432]

They knocked this out of the park! Brilliant multiplication of space and light.

[@AL_THOMAS]

This is the best space we have seen so far by a long way. It’s a brilliant , clever use of space, with ideas transferable (to nick!) for many homes to make them more liveable. We love this channel and have worked through them from the first one and have got this far.

[@FaeFrau]

A COMFY SOFA!!!! Top floor is stunning. I love the openness and the infusion of natural light and air throughout.

[@amie2012]

this looks amazing and simple, not every small space needs huge statement pieces

[@Nath_CM]

ok, so I'll save this as one of my favorites homes ever! The light is absolutely beautiful, and it fills all the apartment, also the design is amazing, very spacious... and two bathrooms!? Just too perfect...

[@Alexxanndrias]

Muchos han renovado ph en Buenos Aires pero pocos se animan a cambiar tanto la distribución de los ambientes, realmente un excelente trabajo sobre todo como aprovechan la luz.

[@lizsays3324]

Wow! This is the first clever design I have seen, where everything makes sense, is functional, comfortable, easy to use, and beautiful. There is absolutely nothing would change. Wonderful.

[@paulabroadway1697]

Very nice, but those stairs would make me nervous.

[@josephtiomico6862]

Same here. I prefer to have railings on the stairs just in case one loses his balance or to prevent mishaps.

[@Riti_S]

I really liked the kitchen upstairs. It's really awesome to see a bright place with so many windows without compromising the privacy. And I loved the floors. It's color is gorgeous 😍

[@Architectureofkb]

Minimalistic, pure and elegant. I have no word for this design, this is typically my style, great job 👏

[@GregCurtin45]

I love the 2nd floor... especially the horizontal window over the kitchen sink. I think I would add an island in the kitchen that doubled as an eating area and use the area where the dining table is as a small seating area. Everyone congregates in the kitchen area when there is a party. I do feel the need for a glass wall railing on the steps. One drunk visitor or sleepy person could seriously hurt themselves. All in all... great use of space.

[@Lasercatss]

This is definitely a favourite. So light-filled, interesting design and use of space, love the outdoor spaces, and that kitchen is beautiful.

[@Esty770]

The contrast between the entry corridor and the home itself is very striking. So much light!

[@d-train633]

Even the bedroom, which is very small, doesn't seem so small because of the large window. I love all the light and air that must make this whole apartment feel like they're living outdoors.

[@inkl0ver]

Lovely. One of my favourite NTS at the moment! Congratulations to the architects.

[@sophiegallizioli8517]

I lived in Buenos Aires as an exchange student in a patio appartment - like the previous space, all rooms went through the patio without communication between them. It was fun but also odd - and I never knew this type of space was common in BsAs! The redesign of the appartment is lovely, practical and airy, and the rooftop terrasse is a dream. One of my favourites, and in one of my favourite cities!

[@marcelafillol8144]

Constructions where all rooms opened to a patio were very typical in Buenos Aires and Argentina in general, and I think (I may be mistaken) in Spain as well. Of course, now most people don't build houses like that, but old ones are still standing.

[@paulalopez873]

@@marcelafillol8144 yes! they´re call "casa chorizo" because of the distribution. We also called chorizo the famous argentinian sausage

[@melindadouglas1673]

Fabulous, functional design that’s gorgeous! The main living space is flooded with natural light and so much storage for such a small space. I love the tucked away dining table that’s only pulled out when needed. Also the sofa that converts to extra sleeping for guests. Your art is amazing! Well done!

[@minimalist_romantic]

Ahhh the top floor is so ace! Love the wood and the light. They way they designed long narrow windows high up on the kitchen walls is👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@smallhouseinthemeadow6131]

I want to move to Argentina and have these two design my home.I love everything about this place;especially the clever use of storage, hidden rooms and most of all, light.

[@libbypetersen3523]

Love the contrast of the warm, refinished wood floors with the light and bright space. Provides a beautiful anchor.

[@LeoiCaangWan]

This is so unbelievably elegant.

[@SCANNO21]

From my point of view, just awesome! A realization of incredible simplicity, fluidity and intelligence of space: we totally have the impression of a house of at least 100m2, not at all 60 m2! the whole gives the feeling of an ultra comfortable and easy-going refuge. Despite the lack of opening to the outside and the little view except from the terrace, I would love to live here.

[@Mossssssssssssssssss]

I seriously love how the indoor and outdoor space merges together so seamlessly

[@jamesperezong]

I love the large sliding doors in the kitchen and how they don't look heavy to push open. My favorite part of this house is definitely the topmost floor.

[@saikogrrl]

This may be the most brilliant space efficiency I've seen on this channel, without feeling cramped at all! Multiple outdoor spaces, a bedroom and office and separate dining and living areas, amazing. The only thing I wouldn't like for myself is the no railings on the stairs, but it does make for a very cool dramatic look. Overall very beautiful and elegant. 🙂

[@createandbuildcorporation]

I really felt in love to imagine to have breakfast at the kitchen beside the rooftop plants terrace with a lover like this house.

[@doropomidoro]

I really love this apartament! Lots of light, plants, brilliant kitchen! 🥰

[@chrisbean]

I absolutely love this house! It's so authentic and original.

[@rodmaxd]

The light in this place is just gorgeous, a photographer's dream.

[@parhelio___]

This is one of the most effective spaces I've seen here.

[@_MSD75_]

this is so gorgeous, all that light and small outdoor spaces and that beautiful floor in the living room. I think I might actually be jealous.

[@keithronson2624]

60sq ms of Perfection! So well designed and every ''inch'' used so well. Looks fantastic. Thank You for sharing.

[@claraschuster855]

I really love the use of the Windows in this one! And even though the ceilings aren't that tall now, its great that they fit an office in between the floors to separate work and living :)

[@marianapardal8217]

The best project in this channel until now. Very beautiful and functional.

[@hypersynesthesia]

That’s a gorgeous and cleverly thought out space. I think the only thing I would change is to add some art and colour to those austere white walls. The atrium and courtyard are so appealing and that floor is beautiful.

[@stackels97]

Absolutely gorgeous design. 2 bathrooms is incredible for any small space and something that's excluded far to often.

[@kassandrashimotsu1568]

Wow, my favorite house so far! So beautiful, comfortable and smart. And it seems just the right size. The only thing I would change is adding a railing, I'd feel queasy at the top landing! 😅

[@Mrsteffmolo]

I'm completely amazed by the perfection of the shapes they used in this small home. The stairs are so aesthetically perfect, like a sculpture.

[@kierand9410]

Appealing from every angle. Incredible design.

[@medham]

Love all the architects and the channel for presenting these videos. Honestly it’s very inspiring and cool to see how versatile each small space can be used to live in!

[@j.b.5230]

This place is simply amazing. I’d love to live in a place like this. It seems like there is no compromise to living.

[@mikaela8996]

I love everything about this apartment, so much light, the windows and the brick wall behind it/ the plants - it is like a painting. A lot of space and it is all so cleverly designed, just wow😍

[@alexorgy]

i screamed and had goosebumps while watching this, this is SO BEAUTIFULLY DONE, also the splash of colors here and there and the whole architecture, just STUNNING

[@maritsaappollis7966]

Wow!! This place is stunning! First time that I am seeing a good combination of minimal yet cosy, functional yet beautiful, and indoor-outdoor living!!

[@InVinoVeritas87]

The general renovation of the house is mind blowing. Such a great work! Maybe the furnitures design couldn’t be the best for everyone, but I love how they restore the structure and spaces. The continuity of inside-outside space is the core and is easily possible fly with the imagination about how could become these court and terrace and how could you live them day by day. So much effort behind this work, in only 60sqm!

[@oggsyunwin9000]

Beautiful space. Perfectly balanced and such a nice play between indoors and outdoors throughout the house.

[@Lucero.Sosart]

i love the fact that there are so many architects an houses from my city! Vamo’ Buenos Aires! Vamos Argentina!!

[@HayleyTief]

I absolutely love this home! Could 100% see myself living there. So functional, practical, and beautiful.

[@FrazySting]

Absolutely stunning design. Love how open it feels.

[@avengerwidow9]

i love this home! it's still looks really cozy despite being very minimalistic and airy and the amount of natural light it gets is a definite plus!

[@jerryarciaga1551]

Love how they maximize the multi-functionality of the stairs, one bathroom and powder room underneath.

[@LoveAimshigh]

BEST EPS YET!!! Totally GENUIS!!!!

[@mypuppy4U]

I actually love this! there are plenty of spaces to sit down and enjoy the sun, which I absolutely love. the living room and the kitchen are also great sizes that don't require compromising of space to enjoy!

[@ebl36]

I have long wanted to buy my own home, but this channel confounds that. One day, I’d like my house to be on here

[@zlatan_2197]

I absolutely love this space. It looks incredibly airy and open, and yet every room has its own identity. Kitchen is absolutely stunning, mainly because of colours and huge amount of natural light. Amazing project!

[@sbrendula]

Wow, wow and wow. It is absolutely one of the best small apartments ever seen in this channel!

[@dianebaker5243]

Beautiful design throughout the apartment inside and out. Thanks for showing us around 👍 🥰

[@pinya5318]

i think this one is my favorite homes from this channel! i loved everything about, the amount of light and privacy, the patio at the entrance of the house, the kitchen!!!! im in love

[@MsWinterlife]

Beautiful light filled residence :) perhaps some handrails could be installed on the outside of that staircase to prevent falling from heights and to improve safety. Having worked over a decade in the infrastructure / construction industry, the lack of fall prevention around the stairs really makes an alarm bell go off in my head nonstop…

[@neverbeaten]

This is a full size house! I couldnt see the shower enough but, i would make shower sink washer larger bath, and only have 1 toilet that is seperated. Id add lots of cupboards on those tall walls, maybe swap bedroom with working space cause i cant work in tight ceiling spaces. VERY GOOD apartment. Id sit in kitchen most tho.

[@elisekhoury7718]

My favorite small house so far. I Love the light through the rectangular wall openings! Amazing yet simple use of material, light and furniture!!!!

[@viscontialice]

All I can say, is that I wish I could live there. A redefinition of cozyness.

[@robertsmiff]

This is my new favourite... but I say that with every video!!

[@Anto_81]

Probably the best apartment on this channel

[@N2LADIES55]

A clever and beautiful design and I would love to live there. I've owned my small 646 square foot brick home for 43 years and would never want a large home.

[@26realmc]

I love this especially the kitchen and terrace. The downstairs walls with such a high ceiling are crying out for a large colourful art piece to cut through the whiteness.

[@axcvilla]

Every time NTS uploads, my eyes and my mind feel so blessed. Thank you for sharing these projects.

[@Denisamoldrio]

Fascinante verlos tomando mate y ese PH hermoso en Parque Chacabuco!! increíble, felicitaciones chicos!!!! qué espacio hermoso hicieron arriba, parece una cafetería

[@cinmaldonado]

Torunn y Matias, excelente trabajo! Todo fluye de una manera espectacular. 10/10

[@petalss5325]

I love the layout, design choices, material and the array of sunlight.. I wish there were more shots from different angles, or a continuious shot from room to room since I'm not that good at imagining 3D layouts.. Also I'd have loved to see this place in different time of a day. Maybe even a timelapse of the kitchen/stair would have been great. So in love with this house.

[@taschisim2255]

This design is just so heavenly! Out of all the small homes ive seen so far in NTS, i would certainly pick this as the most ideal

[@King-Ghidora]

Oh!, that full bathroom is so clever. That is the best part of the apartment. Love the terrace.

[@thatkeyboardgirlsha3442]

i LOVE this so much!! everything looks so airy and clean and the two hidden bathrooms are just amazing too

[@RandomJane104]

This is one of my favorites. It looks comfortable, private, bright and airy.

[@m.ch4rmaland3r10]

Great layout. I love kitchen that is above and bedroom below to minimise energy and increase comfort. A bit concern of stairs and no rail though.

[@ingke23]

it gives out an open space home and you'll never be claustrophobic.

[@DatSuKid]

The AC unit requires access to the ambient air around and above the unit to function. Enclosing it, even partially around it will reduce its efficiency and waste electricity. Highly recommended to expose the unit to the rest of the ambient air and to remove the wood around it.

[@natewillis448]

Was surprised to see it implemented the way it is in the video. Functionality trumps aesthetics in this case

[@rdp919]

I've said this before, but THIS is my dream spot.

[@selenapb5243]

Wowowow! What a stunning space! Definitely one of my favourites so far. Heaps of natural light, really thoughtful design throughout, and love the abundance of plants and splash of orange with the couch. Really beautiful camera work as well. Also, I died laughing with the dancing bit of the team in the middle 😂

[@BibiKhanum]

Hands down the best house featured on this channel thus far. So modernistic, minimal, yet spacious in what seems to be an old run-down neighborhood. The transformation from the dilapidated building to this is simply a work of art. No one can imagine it would look like this from the inside if you stand in the street. And the best part is that it's private yet still has that nature and sunlight owing to the patio and terrace. Well done to the architects.

[@manuelka15]

All neighborhoods look like that in Argentina. It's not run-down. Not more than others.

[@silvasilvasilva]

@@manuelka15 Dunno, pretty sure rich people know how to make Palermo and Belgrano look a lot nicer.

[@ngayon]

One of my favorite small homes so far 👍

[@rosemarysoutherland5020]

bruh I love that Wes Anderson filmed this. It’s so mfing chill

[@Coriakin100]

This was quite a lovely designed home and one of my favorites so far on this channel -- minimalist with clean lines, plenty of natural light and open space, and bursts of color with greenery. A true sanctuary.

[@ayechansan5154]

I love how the light is getting into the house and the dining room and kitchen area are quite large. This is beautiful.

[@catharinefulton282]

Stunning use of space. And the light is just magical.

[@albertguney]

I consider myself, I watched all the episodes of Never Too Small, and so far this is my favorite one. Amazing large kitchen, different units and levels, Balcony and green vibes, etc. so fluid.