Architects: Qisi Design
Area: 25 m²
Location: SHANGHAI, CHINA
Qisi Design was tasked with renovating a small house with a yard, located on the ground floor of a historic conservation building on Huaihai Road, Shanghai. Over the years, property divisions had reduced the house to just 25 square meters. The new owner envisioned transforming this compact space into a short-term rental home. The design goal was clear: create a warm, comfortable environment that accommodates a variety of activities within the limited space.
Maximizing Space and Functionality
The designers maximized the space potential by establishing indoor and outdoor connections and utilizing mezzanine levels and multifunctional elements. The result is a rich, versatile space that supports complete living functions and can host gatherings.
By integrating the courtyard with the interior, the designers expanded the usable area and activity possibilities. An “activity axis” serves as the main line, along which various activity scenes unfold, creating a cohesive and dynamic living space.
Thoughtful Interior Layout
In the renovation, the kitchen area retained its original floor height, while the living room and bathroom areas were lowered to the original elevation, creating a semi-sunken living space. This height difference adds a rich spatial experience. The steps serve as sofas, and the stair handrails double as bookshelves and wardrobes. Wood veneer and furniture enhance the space’s warmth and appeal, blurring the line between furniture and architecture to make the most of every inch.
Efficient Use of the Mezzanine
The mezzanine serves as the bedroom area, with the mattress placed directly on the floor due to height constraints. Fixed furniture on both sides of the bed enriches the mezzanine’s functionality and creates a distinct area separate from the space below.
Innovative Bathroom Design
The bathroom area is situated beneath the mezzanine. Normally, the basin and bath areas are open to the living room, with a shower curtain available for privacy when needed. The dark-colored bathroom, wrapped in cement paint and enhanced by carefully designed lighting, offers tranquility and relaxation. Despite the small overall space, a standard bathtub has been included for a complete bathing experience. When using the bathtub, residents can watch TV through a glass partition, enhancing the sense of luxury.
This renovation showcases how thoughtful design and creative solutions can transform even the smallest spaces into functional, beautiful living areas, perfect for modern urban life.
