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.

[@readygi]

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.

[@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.

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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! 😎✌🏼

[@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 😍

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@tobias-hastings]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@RogerRafaelTay]

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

[@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!

[@MikoSan]

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

[@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

[@Starfireaw11]

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

[@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.

[@aibochan1764]

This is awesome, actual minimalism. Rare.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!!!

[@_roulette_]

To each their own

[@haebee]

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

[@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

[@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 ;-)

[@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.

[@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.

[@alexhawkhead]

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

[@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 🧡

[@granny3829]

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

[@alonaperov8839]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@ALTRO_SG]

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

[@Hello_Foody_BE_Roll_here]

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

[@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.

[@DD-d6d3]

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

[@crimsonblad5]

This place is not for me. He probably works so much that he doesn't need much going on at home. The single sized bed gave me dorm vibes. You can probably piece together what his life is like working in finance in Singapore.

[@itsserhioball]

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

[@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!

[@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. 💜

[@ashw00tz]

My jaw literally dropped at every turn of the apartment and the reveal! And it it's here in Singapore ❤️ Gosh and the smart pop of colours just takes the cake.

[@Luzonyoutube]

An apartment for the loneliest man on earth

[@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.

[@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.

[@kmarr68]

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

[@STUDIO_JC]

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

[@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!

[@roblatchford5923]

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

[@klgherkin]

Fascinating design! I really like the blue theme throughout. I've never seen lights like that either and I really like it!

[@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.

[@angelosolitude]

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

[@m-tetsuo]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@saranshkaushik8259]

Why I eagerly wait for these videos, so soothing

[@miriam4235]

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

[@lyndaster46]

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

[@I_am_Lauren]

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

[@beehongchan2911]

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

[@birdsofthesky2280]

Placing the fridge far away from the kitchen but just next to WC...basic interior design rules are upside down and not for the better or to challenge in order to revolutionize

[@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 :')

[@denisefletcher1608]

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

[@ikenmijnman]

What a great use of space! Just love the simplicity of it. Great use of colar. Great project.

[@WizInsight108]

My god, it is so cute. The faucet and the shower are 😍😍😍😍 The bathroom window is pretty neat. I love the concrete floors. It is super easy to clean. Thanks for bringing such beautiful videos. I really appreciate it. It also gives me the thought that the builders probably should do something like this in the DMV area.

[@rachelyamada2794]

A very random comment but I love that the editor positioned the name of the architect on top of the coin box. Also really liked the way the shades are within the frame of the window, instead of hanging "outside".

[@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

[@estatecentralyt]

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

[@EzinOz]

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

[@ascomycotinazzz]

Big kudos for the designer because he can still produce great design for unique personality client and his fengshui consultant 👍🏻👍🏻

[@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!!!

[@Kyo_Streams]

at least his legos will be safe hehe

[@justmesucker5935]

I absolutely love this channel and the content. I know not every country puts emphasis on apartments and apartment owners may not exist everywhere but I wish we can see more countries and more spaces. Love :)

[@pollytiks3885]

An impressive use of space and materials! Also, great adherence to the client’s needs and usage.

[@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 😊

[@samplesample7178]

i feel cold already by just watching the video lol. But that pull out desk. Normally I dont like such things but the small cabinet just behind it is soo smart!!!

[@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!

[@nomadlufc6996]

I love the idea here and how it's been so well put together. Lacks a little character for my tastes, but for anyone into this type of build it certainly ticks a lot of boxes.

[@fblthpsizzlingsuffrokats2348]

That shower space is really cool

[@startpage717]

Love how minimalist and organised the owner is...

[@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.

[@davidbeswick900]

Awesome space, teh architecture and creativity are both unic and fun filled. Love it!

[@livicco9406]

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

[@AlexBsSecret]

such an interesting intelligent space, it really looks like art. The owner is living a very minimalist lifestyle, loves legos and feng shui, so I get why he'd ask for and likes living in such an apartment. The designer did wonderful, this work is a piece of art.

[@allakravets9820]

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

[@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!

[@innah1420]

I love the design, it's clean and sleek but it still features a touch of vibrant colour which makes it look more lively 👍🏻

[@meowmeowa]

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

[@janicedelrosario3765]

The idea, lay out was very simple but so amazing.