This Petite Apartment Harnesses the Light

CA Interior Design enhanced the small footprint of this two-bedroom Taipei apartment by optimising the flow of natural light, bringing a sense of fluidity to the space

Living in an East Asian city often means accepting the reality of smaller, more compact homes. While a limited footprint can present challenges in terms of design, it can also be seen as an opportunity to create clever layouts that optimise a space to its fullest potential. This 55-square-metre Taipei apartment is a skilful example of such an approach. 

Although the team at local firm CA Interior Design was limited by the building plan and the unit’s standardised layout, the designers honed in on the river view and the abundance of natural light to bring a sense of fluidity and breadth to the space. ‘In order to incorporate sunlight and views of the river into the space, we used floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and the two bedrooms,’ says CA Interior Design’s director Cheng Hao Chien. ‘By taking advantage of the building’s orientation, the windows create a seamless connection between the three spaces while allowing natural light to flow all the way to the core of the apartment.’ 

Designed with a minimalist feel, the apartment is characterised by clean lines, smooth textures and a calming, neutral colour palette. Simple timber furniture is layered against beige walls and flooring, creating a cocooning atmosphere that’s enhanced by the steady stream of sunlight that fills the space.

Illustrating the transformative power of light, the designers turned the apartment’s divided, enclosed rooms into a brighter, interconnected space that feels lighter and more breathable. Clear glass was integrated into two of the living room walls, allowing light to penetrate the spaces and creating a dynamic light flow that changes throughout the day. ‘During the day, the aluminium venetian blinds filter the sunlight, creating light and shadow on the walls as the sun moves across,’ says stylist Chen Yu An. ‘At night, indirect lighting concealed behind the sofa creates a soft, dim glow.’ 

Text by Nina Milhaud
Images by Hoouse 827