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Working with small spaces can be more challenging, but this project by Studio VM Design shows what can be achieved in a limited space. Victor Meus, founder and creative director explains that the property was unusual, and started off in a very different form than it is now.
“The property was originally a 3 bed two-story apartment with an unconventional layout,” Victor explains. “The first floor included a compact kitchen, which was located where the master bathroom now sits, alongside a spacious but disconnected living area and a single bathroom. The arrangement felt fragmented, with the kitchen tucked away and isolated from the main social spaces, creating a disjointed flow. On the upper floor, there were two bedrooms and an additional bathroom, but despite the ample square footage, the layout was inefficient and didn’t fully capitalise on the available space.”
“In the first flat,” Victor explains, “we opted for an open-plan layout to create a sense of spaciousness and connection between the kitchen, living, and dining areas. A minimalist wooden kitchen with subtle grain patterns brings warmth without overpowering the space, while wall panelling adds depth and texture. To give a touch of elegance and surprise, we introduced wardrobe doors with wallpaper, an element that elevates the room’s atmosphere while adding a bespoke feel.”
The second flat has a more obvious midcentury modern influence. “Here, the kitchen features a fluted island—a statement piece that balances sophistication and functionality, inviting social gatherings or family time around the island. A custom TV cabinet adds a streamlined aesthetic and serves as a focal point in the living area. Moving upward to the newly created third floor, this space became the crowning feature: high ceilings, a grand skylight, and an open-plan layout create a vibrant, airy room flooded with natural light.”
When it came to choosing materials and finishes, Victor explains that the light and character of each space was carefully considered. “On the first floor, where natural light is more limited, we embraced a lighter palette of warm neutrals and oak to create an airy, welcoming atmosphere. As we moved upward to the third floor, where sunlight is most abundant, we intentionally introduced darker oak tones and a moodier palette. This deliberate contrast enhances the abundance of natural light, creating a cosy yet luminous environment that feels perfectly balanced for the space.”