Alex still has functional zones to play, work, sleep, cook and bathe, but without any physical or visual demarcation between them. I reconfigured and expressed the functional spaces as a series of cubiods (cabinetry) with a unified design language, pushing them against the flat’s perimeter to optimise the common space. The profile of these structures and their openings were carefully calibrated for a sense of order and proportion. For easy maintenance and pattern consistency, I only used one wood-look laminate for the cabinetry, instead of solid wood.

The light fixture was also customised, as a blue metal pole which transverses the spaces. Although the design appears simple, constructing it required superb craftsmanship and detailing for the structures to appear clean and crisp. With this project, I wanted to demonstrate that size does not matter, and a high level of lifestyle and design can still be achieved in public housing, even within 47 sqm of space. I also created a wall-hung coin bank spray-painted neon orange to meet fengshui requirements and customised the lighting as a 32mm diameter round blue metal tube that goes from wall to wall to look like visual art.

There is a sense of wonder and delight when one explores the home, uncovering its secret functions behind closed doors. When at ease in the space, there is a contemplative calm where one can sit for hours admiring its quiet beauty, which the owner does. Less is more; I don’t design more than what is required.