This Small Apartment Wins at Design-Forward Storage Solutions

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Pinheiros is one of Sao Paulo's most bustling neighborhoods, so when the architectural team at Vão Arquitetura was tasked with overhauling a second-floor apartment, they sought to create a home that matched the area's upbeat creative scene, but still provided tranquility. The firm collaborated with the client to create a space for his hobbies, which include art, playing guitar, and collecting LPs.

With only 538-square-feet to work with, custom storage units became the focus of the design. And instead of knocking down walls — which is often the go-to in trying to open up an already small space — the firm actually extended one wall to create more privacy. The result? A cozy, character-filled apartment that offers serene garden views.

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Living Room

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Bars, boutiques, and public transportation stops define the neighborhood, which is a residential-commercial mix. The spaces of the apartment were divided to create private and shared spaces and there are both bustling city and garden views (on the other side).

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Living Room

Most of the furnishings in the apartment, including the cabinets, were designed by the architectural firm, and made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF). The MDF is covered by Freijó, a type of wood popular in Brazil.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Living Room

An iron ladder, over 10 feet high, leads to a collection of books and LPs. The firm was able to utilize the upper level to create more space for the client's artistic passions.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Living Room

By not demolishing any of the existing structure, the team was able to leave original elements, such as the wood ceiling beams. The floors were made from a mixture of marble, granite, sand, cement, and water.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Storage

Clever modular storage units were custom-designed by the team.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Storage

The color palette in the apartment is uncomplicated, relying on white and black contrasts and organic wood elements.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Living Room

Originally, this space was a laundry area, but because the apartment building already has a shared laundry room, the firm wiped it out to allow for more space and storage.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Living Room

Natural materials meet industrial elements in the kitchen. Kitchen cabinets, also made from MDF covered in Freijó, are encapsulated by a cement border.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Dining Room

The open kitchen is just large enough to accommodate a dining area.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto

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Kitchen

The kitchen features a mix of open shelving and custom cabinetry.

Image Credit: Rafaela Netto