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A three-level studio on the Upper West Side stretches the limits of a tiny space

By Jennifer Laing  | September 3, 2014 - 12:59PM
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This Upper West Side apartment, showcased on the design blog Design-Milk, is just 425 square feet, but that didn’t stop architects Specht Harpman from creating an airy “micro-loft” in what was once a teeny sixth-floor studio. 
 
According to the architects, the original space wasn’t even large enough to fit a bed or a sofa, but it did have a couple of things going for it: 25-foot ceilings and a roof deck. To make the most of those features the architects created four platforms—each its own distinct area: entry/kitchen, living room, bedroom and roof. Next they put into practice some of the best tips for small-space living we’ve seen:
 
 
Think open concept: Walls can make a small space feel even smaller. By removing interior walls—and using the vertical space to its advantage—the architects created an apartment that feels open and airy.
 
 
Use every inch of space: The two main staircases don’t just connect the various living areas within the apartment; they’re used for storage cabinetry, drawers and a bathroom, as well. 
 
 
Reduce clutter: Extra stuff can make a small apartment feel even smaller, so the architects made sure to keep the chaos in control by concealing as much of it as possible inside built-ins. For example, everything but a small stovetop is hidden behind white lacquered cabinets in the kitchen and a platform bed keeps everything in the sleeping area contained.
 
 
Choose materials with care: White walls and cabinets combined with dark wood floors and a platform bed enhance the space and add to a clean, modern look.
 
(A hat tip to Refinery 29 for bringing the post to our attention.)

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