Collection by Laura C. Mallonee
A Tiny Apartment Renovation for a Growing Family in Melbourne
Australian firm Clare Cousins Architects proves urban living and functional family homes are not mutually exclusive.
Just because you start having kids doesn’t mean you have to pack up for the suburbs. For proof, look to this recent apartment renovation in Melbourne’s central business district by Clare Cousins Architects. The firm smartly (and inexpensively) reimagined an 800-square-foot apartment to provide more than enough space for a young couple expecting their first child.
“High-density living achieves numerous social, environmental and economic benefits,” architect Clare Cousins explains. “[Our clients’] decision to remain in a small space allowed their modest budget to be maximised by efficient spatial planning and a creative composition of commonly available materials.”
To increase the illusion of space, the architect raised the ceiling height and installed window treatments that let in plenty of light. “The singular use of [pine wood] also enhances the perception of space and provides dual cost-benefits,” Cousins says. “Plywood is affordable and readily available, and much of the joinery was designed to be constructed by a carpenter, further minimizing construction costs.”
Carefully chosen furniture and fixtures make every square foot count. In the dining room, a Muuto Unfold pendant hangs above an Artek Aaldto dining table. The track lighting is by Masson for Light Comet. The living room features a gray Nook Sofa by Jardan and a red Eames Molded Plywood Chair that contrast playfully with the Baltic pine floors.