Lecture Notes: Designing a Small Space Apartment

Introduction

Speaker: Christy Ward
Location: 650 square foot apartment in New York City
Background: Co-founder of Warden Gray with business partner Stavor Gray, focusing on boutique hotels
Design Philosophy: Designing apartment like a hotel with experiential and functional aspects

Concept: Studio apartment designed to have separate nooks for dining, living, working, and sleeping
Initial Condition: Apartment had walls painted in various colors (e.g., avocado green, pink, purple)
Design Goal: Maximize function and create intimate spaces

Design Inspiration: Nearby parks bringing greenery into the space
Color Scheme: Originally considered navy but opted for lighter colors to open up the space
Lighting Fixtures: Custom chandelier with green and light blue elements to tie the room together
Furniture:
- Reupholstered sofa in lively colors
- Credenza as a focal point showcasing art
- Ceramic fish art inspired by Priano alleyways
Functionality: Divided living and sleeping areas for privacy

Layout: Separated from living room by glass and metal divider for privacy
Design Details:
- Custom bed designed in Portugal with hand block stripe fabric and playful fringe
- Focus on natural light with clear glass divider
Space Optimization: Bed positioning to free space around

Initial Condition: Narrow space with cabinets on either side
Design Features:
- Function as both kitchen and workspace
- Upper shelves and clear glass cabinets for openness
- Beadboard detail on cabinets
Color and Materials: Ferrum Ball Light Blue cabinetry and Honecure marble countertops

Previous Layout: Wide corridor with an overwhelming cabinet
New Features:
- Built-in millwork piece with light blue and beadboard details
- Wardrobes and storage under nook bench
Social Functionality: Open design for mingling during gatherings

Design Decision: Prioritized storage over larger bathroom
Color Scheme: Light blue to make space feel larger
Custom Features:
- Custom 24-inch wide vanity
- Eased corners and edges for flow
- Polished nickel mirror with curved design

Timeframe: Project took about a year
Reflection: First personal design project; importance of functionality and personal touch in a studio apartment
Key Takeaway: Every element must be functional and purposeful in a small space