The Evolution of Amenity Spaces in Smaller Apartments: Overcoming Design Challenges
As urban living evolves, so too does the concept of home. LIV Design’s expertise in multi-residential interior design shines in addressing the changing dynamics of modern buildings. With an increasing amount of square footage allocated to purposeful amenity spaces, designers are reimagining how shared areas enhance daily life. The shrinking size of private apartments presents both a challenge and an opportunity for innovation, pushing the boundaries of functionality and community-centric design. In this blog we discuss the challenges that are presented by these shrinking living spaces and the clever solutions that designers are implementing to overcome them.
Emerging Trends in Space Design: Maximizing Utility and Function
As the trend of downsizing apartments continues to gain momentum, designers are embracing innovative solutions to maximize the potential of every square inch. The need to adapt to smaller living spaces has given rise to a new wave of design strategies that focus on versatility and multifunctionality. Features such as sliding wall panels and doors are now being incorporated with greater frequency, offering residents the ability to seamlessly transition between open, airy environments and private, intimate spaces with ease. This fluidity allows a room to serve multiple purposes—a bedroom that doubles as an office, or a living room that transforms into an entertainment area—enhancing the overall functionality of the home. This is now a fundamental necessity: spaces that evolve to meet the diverse and ever-changing needs of modern life, where flexibility is as much a design principle as aesthetic appeal.
Modular and multifunctional furniture are also at the forefront of this shift. Compact, foldable tables, extendable dining tables, and sofa beds are just a few examples of how furniture is evolving to maximize space without compromising on comfort or style. These pieces adapt to the changing needs of residents, whether they’re hosting a dinner party, working from home, or relaxing at the end of the day.
Redefining First Impressions: The Evolving Role of Lobbies in Contemporary Apartment Design
Designing for Interaction: Building Community Through Shared Spaces
As apartments continue to shrink in size, designers are increasingly focused on creating spaces that encourage interaction and connection among residents. Today’s apartment buildings are incorporating a range of amenities—such as coffee bars in the lobby, running tracks, and even event management services—to foster a strong sense of community. The lobby, once simply a passageway, has evolved into a central gathering point where residents can meet, socialize, and connect. Thoughtfully designed spaces, featuring seasonal fixtures, movie nights, and communal events, are redefining how we experience urban living. These carefully crafted areas offer residents opportunities to engage and form bonds, nurturing a sense of belonging amidst the bustle of city life.
"The lobby is no longer just an entrance—it's the heart of the building, where community and connection come to life. Thoughtful design creates spaces that inspire interaction, transforming urban living into a more cohesive and social experience."
— Sara Namdarian Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
Designing a True Community: Functional and Flexible Amenity Spaces
Good lighting and thoughtful layouts remain essential when designing lobby spaces that must serve multiple purposes. Lobbies have evolved into versatile hubs, accommodating a variety of activities while setting the tone for the building's overall design. Beyond offering a welcoming entry point, these spaces now provide areas for social interaction, quiet work, or relaxation. Designers prioritize creating flexible environments by incorporating adaptable furniture arrangements and carefully defining zones, ensuring each area serves a distinct purpose without feeling overcrowded. This thoughtful approach allows residents to seamlessly transition between leisure and productivity, making the lobby a dynamic extension of their living space.
"When designing these spaces, it’s all about balance—making sure that each area can shift between different needs, whether that’s work or play. We aim to create places that feel welcoming and functional, no matter what time of day it is."
— Sam Leung Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
Luxury Meets Efficiency: Design Solutions for Modern Living
As the cost of living rises, interior designers are harnessing innovation to craft spaces that merge functionality with sophistication. In smaller spaces, these constraints inspire a deeper exploration of inventive solutions that redefine how we perceive and utilize interiors.
Rather than viewing limitations as setbacks, we see them as opportunities to push creative boundaries and employ transformative techniques. This can include integrating bespoke, multifunctional furniture and pioneering adaptable layouts that seamlessly transition between uses. Intentional material selection with our mind on the future enables the creation of high-impact designs that prioritize durability and beauty.
This innovative mindset shifts the narrative from compromise to ingenuity. By optimizing every inch of space, designers craft environments that not only meet the demands of modern living but also elevate the experience, proving that luxury and efficiency can coexist in perfect harmony.
New Concepts in Design: The Integration of Outdoor and Indoor Spaces
A new trend in high-density living spaces is the integration of balconies or solariums into living units. These once-separate outdoor areas are now being designed to seamlessly merge with indoor spaces, creating larger, more versatile environments. Adding multifunctional furniture, such as murphy beds and built-in storage solutions, maximizes the utility of these combined spaces.
Additionally, amenities that were once seen as private luxuries—such as study areas, libraries, and bike rooms—are now being incorporated into the building’s design. This trend not only frees up space within individual apartments but also encourages residents to venture beyond their private units, promoting a sense of community and collaboration.
Innovations in High-Density Living: Maximizing Space Without Compromising Comfort
As high-rise buildings become increasingly popular, designers are focusing on how to prevent residents from feeling cramped. Using lighter colors and maximizing natural light are just a few of the ways that space can feel more expansive. Additionally, multifunctional rooms, which can serve as both workspaces and living spaces, are gaining popularity in designs where flexibility is key. By focusing on creative storage solutions, vertical design elements, and open-plan configurations, high-density apartments can maximize functionality and create an airy, comfortable atmosphere. Developers are also introducing features like rooftop gardens, fitness studios, and communal lounges to expand usable space and provide residents with opportunities to connect and unwind beyond their individual units.
" In high-rise living, the key is to make every square foot count. By blending thoughtful design with multifunctional features, we can create spaces that feel open and adaptable, giving residents the best of both comfort and functionality."
— Lahiru Jayakody, Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
Changing Roles of Home Spaces: The Growing Importance of Lobbies and Shared Amenities
As rising costs shrink apartment sizes, lobbies have transformed into vibrant hubs designed to foster connection and community among residents. No longer just a transitional space, modern lobbies now serve as multifunctional areas where people can gather, work, or relax. With features like abundant natural light, comfortable seating, and ample power outlets, these spaces cater to the demands of remote work and social interaction. Shared amenities such as co-working zones or outdoor terraces further redefine the role of lobbies, offering residents opportunities to connect, collaborate, and unwind—essentially becoming an extension of their living spaces.
" Our goal is to design spaces that not only maximize functionality but also foster a sense of connection, helping residents make the most of smaller living while still feeling part of a larger, vibrant community."
— Sara Namdarian Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
