Before and after images of a studio apartment renovation with a custom wood structure.

A before and after comparison of a studio apartment renovation. The 'before' image shows an empty room with large windows and a simple layout. The 'after' images display a transformed space with a custom-built wood structure featuring an elevated bed, integrated storage, and seating areas, creating a multifunctional living environment.

Two views of an empty apartment interior with white walls, light-colored wood finishes, and tiled floors. The first view shows a kitchenette with a sink, stove, and overhead cabinets, alongside a doorway leading to a bathroom. The second view shows a plain wall with a sliding glass partition on the left.
An empty apartment interior with large windows offering a view of the city and a small kitchenette on the left.
A person standing in an empty room with large windows and reflective flooring.
A modern studio apartment interior featuring a custom-built wooden platform with integrated storage and seating. The space includes a small kitchen area with white cabinetry and a refrigerator, separated by a glass partition. The elevated platform serves as a bed and seating area with steps leading up to it. The design incorporates wood finishes and subtle lighting.
A modern studio apartment with a custom-built wooden platform featuring an elevated bed, integrated storage, and a workspace. The room is illuminated by natural light through sheer curtains, and a TV is mounted on a wooden wall unit.
A compact apartment interior featuring a custom-built wooden platform with an elevated bed, integrated storage, and seating area. The design includes steps leading to the bed, a small table with tea set, and a neutral color palette.
A compact living space featuring a custom-built wooden platform with integrated steps, storage, and a bed. The design includes a seating area with cushions and a small table holding a tray with a teapot and cup.
A modern interior space featuring a custom wood structure with angular design elements. The setup includes a wall-mounted television, a wooden table, and seating. The room is well-lit with natural light coming through sheer curtains.
A modern apartment interior featuring a custom-built wooden platform with an elevated bed and integrated storage. A person is sitting on the lower level using a laptop, with large windows showing a cityscape view.

Story

Metre Architects redefines compact living with a sculptural approach In the bustling cityscape of Singapore, Metre Architects has ingeniously transformed a 462-square-foot studio apartment into a dynamic living space that defies its modest dimensions. Designed for a young professional, the apartment seamlessly integrates zones for cooking, working, socializing, and relaxation, all within a single, cohesive environment. The original apartment layout was typical, with a small kitchenette, a bathroom, and a floor-to-ceiling closet, but lacked spatial definition. The architects introduced a glass sliding-folding partition near the kitchen, creating a distinct separation between the entry and the main living area. This subtle intervention establishes a transitional sequence, enhancing the sense of arrival. The glass partition allows natural light to permeate, maintaining an open and airy atmosphere. Central to the apartment's transformation is a custom-built wood platform that serves multiple functions. This elevated structure houses the bed, with ample storage beneath, and integrates a sofa, desk, dining area, and seating ledges. By consolidating these elements into a single installation, the design frees up floor space and enhances visual cohesion. Different platform heights delineate each functional zone without the need for walls, preserving an open-plan feel. The material palette, dominated by wood-grain laminate, unifies the interior, creating a monochromatic aesthetic that simplifies the space. The continuous wood surfaces accentuate the angular geometry, particularly around the stairs and television wall. At night, integrated lighting beneath the platform casts a warm glow, emphasizing the floating appearance of the structure and fostering a tranquil ambiance. Metre Architects' approach exemplifies how constraints can inspire innovation, merging furniture, architecture, and storage into a singular, harmonious interior.

## Design Highlights

Glass sliding-folding partition for spatial separation and light permeability Custom wood platform integrating bed, storage, sofa, desk, and dining Monochromatic wood-grain laminate for visual cohesion Integrated lighting for atmospheric enhancement

## Key Facts

Feature Description
Location Singapore
Architect Metre Architects
Area 462 sq ft (43 sq m)
Year 2023
Main Materials Wood-grain laminate, glass
Key Design Element Custom multifunctional wood platform

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Carpentry: Finished in matching wood-grain laminate throughout, creating a monochromatic look.

Materials

  • Wood — Custom-built platform, integrated storage, and seating areas.
  • Glass — Sliding-folding partition near the kitchen.

Construction / Systems

  • Partition System: Glass sliding-folding partition to separate kitchen and living areas.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: neutral, wood tones
  • Lighting: Subtle integrated lighting beneath the platform for a warm glow.

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