Enjoy 2 free articles a month. For unlimited access, get a membership now.

Video: Can a small apartment in China create a blueprint for modern urban living?

BOOKMARK ARTICLE

A micro-residence in Guangzhou, China, balances the relationship between humans, their cats and nature with a layered architectural approach. The project has been named FRAME Awards 2022’s Small Apartment of the Year.

A newlywed couple and their two cats live within the Utopia 2020 Dream Home, which was designed and built as part of the sixth season of Chinese television show Dream House. The residence is only 20 sq-m, but clever, modular interventions create a harmonious combination of multilevel spaces. Designer Thomas Tse and Inspiration Group investigated ideas of plasticity and flexibility to bring the apartment to life, addressing the needs of its human and feline inhabitants alike. To ensure the family has some connection with nature in the busy cityscape of Guangzhou, the exterior is punctuated by openings that emphasize the skyline. 

Learn what the Grand Jury had to say about the space below:


Unlock more inspiration and insights with FRAME

Get 2 premium articles for free each month

Create a free account