Kangping Road Apartment by TOWOdesign
Kangping Road Apartment is a modern industrial home located in Shanghai, China, designed by TOWOdesign.
About Kangping Road Apartment
Innovative Design in Compact Spaces
TOWOdesign consistently employs a straightforward approach to infuse value into the spatial layout and origin of space. Furthermore, they adeptly utilize minimalistic principles to enhance both the functionality and ambiance of renovated areas. Specifically, they applied this philosophy to craft an affordable dwelling in Shanghai’s densely populated urban center. Here, they ingenitiously expanded the space with a mere 10-degree rotation.
Originally spanning just 430 square feet (40 square meters), the space required zones for daily living, storage, work, and entertainment. TOWOdesign cleverly devised multiple “function boxes” to amalgamate these daily necessities within the confined area. Consequently, they fostered innovative activity zones between these boxes, transforming the apartment from a conventional room arrangement into a dynamic, flowing space. The yellow kitchen cabinet emerges as the focal point of this vibrant area, dispelling any sense of confinement while visually enlarging the space.
Resolving Spatial Contradictions
However, introducing these boxes into such a limited area initially led to certain challenges, particularly with the entertainment box, which obstructed the overall flow and view. Addressing this, TOWOdesign ingeniously rotated all functional boxes by 10 degrees, resolving the issues and introducing intriguing intersections. For instance, an area near the rest box became ideal for a staircase with concealed storage, blending flexibility with utility. Similarly, a triangular light box in the living room not only illuminates the space but also creates a welcoming ambiance.
Maximizing Storage in Minimal Spaces
Given the compact nature of the apartment, storage was a paramount consideration. The design strategically allocates the largest volume to storage, integrating it with other functional areas through hidden, sliding, and display solutions. Additionally, an open kitchen, a foldable dining table, and a concealed toilet ensure every square inch serves a purpose.
Mindful Use of Mirrors
Mirrors were thoughtfully incorporated to counter the cramped feel without offending local customs. For example, the careful positioning of mirrors enhances the sense of space while avoiding their placement in direct view from the bed, adhering to cultural norms and maintaining room warmth.
Furthermore, exposing certain original structural elements, like pillars and walls, not only highlights the building’s architecture but also subtly nods to the 10-degree rotation theme, adding layers of interest to the space. Through this respectful yet transformative design approach, TOWOdesign has masterfully enlarged the perception of space, showcasing the power of creative and practical design solutions in compact living environments.
Photography courtesy of TOWOdesign
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- by Matt Watts
