Steal These 8 Space-Saving Ideas from Your (Tiny) Neighbour

We might have a love-hate relationship with our neighbour, but one thing’s for sure - Singaporeans have pretty much mastered the art of small-space living! (Okay, maybe that’s not something to be envious of…)

But with more homes in Malaysia shrinking in size, it’s time to learn (or steal) an idea or two about maximizing space from the island city. So love thy neighbour - from smart storage to visual tricks, take notes from these 8 space-savvy homes (under 1000sqft) in Singapore:

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1. A Tall Order

At only 398 sqft, it’s hard to imagine fitting in a study, walk-in wardrobe and more into this one-bedroom apartment. But it does – making use of the home’s towering ceilings, two lofted spaces are built up with tons of concealed storage to house a workstation and walk-in closet, on top of its open kitchen, living and sleeping areas.

Interior Designer: Prozfile Design

2. Victorian Charm

Intricate, Victorian-style décor may have a bad rep for making homes look cluttered and stuffy, but this stylish, 581 sqft abode blows it out of the water. See-through glass panels and minimal finishes help to bring in well-needed light and balance out some of the heavier, decorative pieces. The effect? A cosy, modern space that pays homage to the gilded ages of past.

Interior Designer: Fuse Concept

3. Japandi Sensibility

The latest buzzword in the interior scene, ‘Japandi’ is all about blending clean-cut, Japanese minimalism with homey Scandinavian elements. And this compact studio is the perfect example, retaining a breezy yet intimate vibe that secretly packs a practical punch! Case in point? Shelving niches (like that slanted wine rack) that make full use of every crevice; or that gorgeous slatted bed-frame, filled with little cubbies to sneak in some extra storage.

Interior Designer: Uno Interior

4. A Luxury Cabin

Inspired by ship cabins, this plush pad would look right at home in a luxury cruise ship! But there’s more to it than its achingly opulent décor. Beyond the upscale marbled surfaces and golden accents lies a surprisingly compact apartment that’s fitted with smart storage everywhere. Yes – from the stair steps, ceilings to that nautical-style bunk bed, all under 700 sqft.

Interior Designer: Fatema Design Studio

5. Muted Minimalism

One way of making a cramped apartment look spacious? Keep items and details to a minimal, like this sleek, uncomplicated abode. Glossy floors and glass partitions help to reflect light and evoke a sense of space, while linear built-ins and furnishings bring a crisp, modern flair. Plus, it doesn’t fall short in practicality – behind those wall panels built up lie a ton of storage compartments, including this pull-out bed by the study.

Interior Designer: KDOT Associates

6. The Book Club

The type to curl up with a book all weekend? Welcome to your dream crib – open shelving built from the ground up create a literal book ‘wall’ in this tiny studio apartment, while further in the bedroom, a raised platform works as a bed frame and convenient storage point (for more books!). But if reading isn’t your thing, fret not. There’s always a projector screen to pull out for movie marathons!

Interior Designer: Uno Interior

7. Earthy Functionality

Dim and comforting, dark walnut finishes and golden cove lights beckon one to unwind in this 700sqft abode. But, the real highlight is rather the incredible amount of storage squeezed in here! Hulking home appliances are kept flush into closed cabinets or recessed cubbies for an uncluttered look. Meanwhile, a sliding ladder helps users to access areas higher-up, while the bedroom features an insanely elevated platform bed with massive pull-out drawers (one works as a stepladder!).

Interior Designer: Authors Interior and Styling

8. Going Off Tangent

Filled with awkwardly placed pillars and a semi-circle layout, this odd 2-room apartment was a challenge to design from the get go. But thanks to the ingenuity of its designers, the 807sqft home is transformed into a one-of-a-kind dwelling. Sliding elements reflect, conceal and provide an illusion of bigger space, while custom furniture made to follow the diagonal lines of the flat help to visually elongate the apartment. The result is a practical feast for the eyes that (surprise!) looks larger than it lets on.

Interior Designer: Asolidplan

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Snag these looks for your home!

Love these space-savvy ideas and want them for your home? An interior designer can help to incorporate your needs (and wants) and execute them, based on your home's layout and style. We can help - request for free quotes here, and we will recommend you up to 5 interior firms in Malaysia. All recommendations made by Qanvast will be eligible for the Qanvast Guarantee, and opt-in programme that safeguards your renovation deposit up to RM50,000*.

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