In 2012, architect Otto Henkell bought a Victorian-era workers’ cottage in Melbourne, Australia, with a total floor area of 60 square meters (about 645 square feet). The architect, of Apparte Studio in Melbourne’s Fitzroy neighborhood, acquired it as an investment and set about rehabbing it in his spare time—and doing the labor himself—taking almost five years to complete.
Henkell’s client was a speculative one—likely a young couple or family—so he designed their future home with a few imaginary requirements in mind: They would want a minimalist home with subtle reminders of its provenance, he thought, full of light, flexible storage, and energy efficiency (read: low operating costs). Here’s how he did it.
Photography by Daniel Aulsebrook, except where noted; courtesy of Apparte Studio.
1. Use utilities as decor.
2. Use a curtain as an ad hoc wall.
3. Choose the whitest white possible.
4. Then, warm it up.
5. Let a single original detail shine.
6. In a tiny room, make it match.
7. Can’t install it behind walls? Hide it in plain sight.
8. Borrow light from nature.
9. Embrace flexible storage.
10. Use fresh air as contrast.
11. Honor a history without frills.
Before
For more Ideas to Steal, see:
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Frequently asked questions
What is the article about?
The article is about 11 ideas that can be taken from a tiny worker's cottage in Melbourne.
Where is the cottage located?
The cottage is located in Melbourne.
Why is the cottage called a worker's cottage?
The cottage is called a worker's cottage because it was built for working-class families in the 19th century.
What is the size of the cottage?
The cottage is small in size, typical of worker's cottages, with a living area of just 50 square meters.
What are some design ideas that can be taken from the cottage?
Some design ideas that can be taken from the cottage include the use of light colors, maximizing natural light, creating an open-plan living space, and incorporating indoor plants.
What is the color scheme used in the cottage?
The color scheme used in the cottage is white and light colors, which create an airy and open feel.
What are some of the storage solutions in the cottage?
Some of the storage solutions in the cottage include built-in shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, and under bed storage.
What is the garden like in the cottage?
The garden in the cottage is small but functional, with a mix of plants in pots and a small area for a vegetable garden.
What is the style of furniture used in the cottage?
The style of furniture used in the cottage is a mix of vintage and modern pieces, creating a unique and eclectic look.
What are some of the eco-friendly features of the cottage?
Some of the eco-friendly features of the cottage include recycled materials used in the renovation, a rainwater tank to collect water for the garden, and energy-efficient light bulbs.
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