Designing a City Apartment When Space Isn’t on Your Side
A real client story
City apartments are rarely generous in size, and open plan does not automatically mean ample square footage. This particular project was a new build, which meant the kitchen had already been installed before I came on board. The brief came from a young entrepreneur who needed the remaining space to work much harder: a proper dining area, a relaxed lounge, and a functional home office, all within one open-plan footprint. My first step was an in-house brain dump, mapping out how the space could work rather than how it was currently being used. On paper, the layout made sense, and the potential was there.
Early planning showing how the remaining footprint was divided to support everyday living, working, and dining within clear spatial limits.
The apartment was to be shared with the client’s partner, and with that came very real constraints. The budget was limited, the lead time was short, and the expectation was that the space would be ready for move-in without delay. I agreed to source key furniture pieces that were already in stock and to specify a contemporary wall colour, ensuring everything stayed within budget and on schedule. The result was serviceable, but it lacked depth. This is exactly why I’m cautious about tight deadlines and unrealistic process times. They inevitably dampen creativity. Good design needs space to evolve, and rushing that process often shows.
The initial in-house concept explored how the space could work, mapping furniture, lighting, and circulation before any final decisions were made.z
I presented this version as a first concept, fully aware it wasn’t the final answer. It wasn’t approved, but we were already halfway there. With a clearer understanding of what was missing, we made a few strategic changes: the rug was replaced, a wall panel was introduced, a wood TV cabinet added warmth, a designer pendant brought focus, and a new artwork tied everything together. That was all it took. The revised concept was approved, delivered on time, and installed while my client was abroad on a business trip. While I do not have permission to publish the final design, I can say this with confidence. It was stylish, on point, and delivered within budget.
An open-plan living area designed to accommodate a lounge, dining, and work zone within a compact city apartment.
If you are planning a city apartment and want a considered design approach that respects space, budget, and time, get in touch to discuss your project.
