Homedit interviewed the designers, Catalin Sandu and Adrian Iancu, to learn more about the inspiration behind the multifunctional Life Edited apartment.
We drew inspiration from various sources for this project, including small apartments with efficient design solutions like Gary Chang’s transformable apartment in Hong Kong, as well as boat interiors, container apartments, and garden studios from around the world. Overall, we were inspired by simple, clean, and minimalistic designs that we have admired over the years.
When designing this entire apartment, we approached each “room” or functionality requirement (such as “bedroom,” “kitchen,” and “dining”) individually, but also ensured that all the spaces were interwoven.
In this project, we focused on organizing the kitchen and bathroom for maximum efficiency to maximize the main space. The main space was designed to serve multiple functions including a lounge area, dining for 10, bedroom, home office, and guest room, while maintaining a clean and spacious feel.
How long did it take to design the entire apartment, from start to finished blueprint? Did any design elements change during construction?
We participated in a crowdsourcing competition for a 2010 apartment design, taking about a month for our submission. The owner and jury selected our design at the start of 2011. Guerin Glass Architecture Firm in New York then built the project, completing it in 2012.
While there were some changes, the main concept and design elements remained accurate.
I believe the moving wall is crucial for space efficiency and stands out as a prominent feature of this design. It provides an additional room with privacy when needed. What sets it apart from other designs is that you don’t have to operate it frequently.
The core functions of the apartment are readily accessible even with the wall closed.
Is this design paving the way for a brand new lifestyle? Is it a worthwhile tradeoff for the typically restricted urban living conditions?
Designs like this offer a viable alternative for living in crowded and expensive urban environments. Reducing material possessions and organizing one’s lifestyle can be positive financially and spiritually, given the shortage of available resources worldwide.
Are there any design details in the apartment that you’re especially proud of?
The apartment features the Swing model murphy bed/sofa from Resource Furniture, as well as bunk beds in the guest room and the Goliath expandable dining table. These furniture systems effectively integrate Graham’s desired functionalities in a space-saving manner.
When selecting materials and colors, the goal was to balance the modern white with warmer and more neutral elements. Wood paneling was used in the entrance, toilet room, guest room, and home office, adding a special feel to the apartment’s dynamic.
I believe this idea of multi-functionality can also be applied to bigger apartments. By maximizing the space and utilizing its full potential, I don’t see any reason why it couldn’t work.
When it comes to creating the overall form and function of the space, the seamlessness of the design becomes crucial. It allows the space to be highly functional while maintaining a visually lightweight appearance.
For achieving a compact design style, it’s crucial to implement these features in detail. To maintain a clean, uncluttered feel, attention must be paid to all elements, from cabinets to appliances or kitchen items. Your design itself speaks to Graham Hill’s comment that simplifying your life can make you happier.
Cutting down on possessions can lead to a simpler, better organized, and less crowded life, which can be happier for some people. However, it depends on their perspective. Some individuals may prefer the spaciousness of suburban homes, and that is a matter of personal preference and different priorities. Nonetheless, given the growth of the urban population and the limited resources on earth, living in a smaller footprint can be a sensible alternative for the future.
Thank you, Catalin Sandu and Adrian Iancu, for inspiring design and sharing your process!
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I’m Kevin Brown, a dedicated home master and the creative mind behind rentcheck.me. My journey began with a passion for ensuring homes are not just structures but sanctuaries that reflect comfort, safety, and happiness.
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