Unit Type: One Bedroom
Usable Area: 30 Square Meters
Location: Mentougou, Beijing
Decoration Cost: 130,000 Yuan
“I have a villa on the Azure Coast, which is the most comfortable and cozy place in the world.”
— Le Corbusier (referring to his own 14 square meter cabin)
Concept Overview
Though sparrows are small, they possess all five vital organs. Similarly, our studio has long focused on designing minimal yet fully functional residential units. Designing small spaces is challenging since functional needs often overshadow aesthetic considerations. Nevertheless, we aim to explore new spatial possibilities.
In the “Micro Residence” project, we created a shell-like enclosure that offers an immersive spatial experience. The flow design guides you into a secluded micro residence reminiscent of a peach blossom garden, fostering a stronger connection with nature.
△ Guest Dining Area
Site Analysis
This project is located in Mentougou District, Beijing, with the residence facing the Yongding River. The owners are a young couple. Originally, the space was only 30 square meters with an irregular layout that severely limited functionality. The slanted orientation complicated the space between the kitchen and bathroom, resulting in numerous unusable corners.
△ Site Analysis Diagram
Design Concept
Every architectural form must address spatial challenges—that is its true purpose. We removed all non-load-bearing walls to free up the space, maximizing natural light and creating a transparent, pure environment. Two semi-circular shell structures enclose the private area, with curved walls redefining boundaries. A smooth arc leads from the entrance to the living space, with each functional zone arranged in a clear sequence. All formations align with the window, directing views toward the “sea” of the Yongding River outside.
Concept Analysis Diagram
△ Spatial Storyboard
Entrance Hall
Upon entering, a free-flowing visual impression unfolds. To the left is the entryway, featuring built-in wall cabinets for storage. Two light strips guide the eye along the length of the space, enhancing the sense of depth.
△ Entrance Hall
Living Room
To optimize space, the floor was raised to create a cozy capsule-shaped bedroom area. A curved wall compensates for the lack of privacy, defining a semi-private resting zone. The bed’s headboard is integrated into a full-length wardrobe, while the platform extends to form the sofa base, bridging the public living room and private bedroom.
A square-framed partition connects visual spaces with a semi-open design that invites light, enhancing the breathable feel. The window area functions as a versatile workspace for two, adaptable for both office and dining use. Moving the dining table to the center allows seating for up to five people, offering flexible space arrangements.
△ Living Room
△ Dining Area
Kitchen and Bathroom
The thickened TV cabinet features ample storage at its base and sides, with the kitchen countertop extending seamlessly from it. The L-shaped counter offers generous space for cooking and meal prep. The open layout incorporates laundry functions, while the windowsill ensures the area is bright, providing natural light that also benefits the adjacent bathroom.
The bathroom’s streamlined design visually expands the compact space. A curved glass door allows light flow while matte treatment ensures bathing privacy.
△ Kitchen
△ Bathroom
Conclusion
Throughout the design process, we minimized the loss of natural light by employing materials such as glass, curved surfaces, and precise edge cuts. This approach ensures every corner of the home feels bright and warm.
Weiju represents a redefinition of boundaries within irregular housing layouts, completely breaking away from conventional spatial structures. By incorporating circular arcs and using light as a guiding element, it clearly distinguishes private and public zones, fostering a relaxed, open living environment. This transforms a once cramped, dim space into a lively, inviting home.
△ Original Floor Plan
△ Renovated Floor Plan
△ Model
Project Details
Project Name: Weiju
Location: Yongding River Area, Mentougou, Beijing
Building Type: Flat-rise Residential
Building Area: 30 Square Meters
Design Firm: Beijing Opera Architecture Design Consulting Co., Ltd.
Designers: Liu Yang, Zhang Yixin
Plan Development: Wang Dan
Graphic Design: Li Kejin
Project Contributors: Yang Fuda, Luo Shuang
Furniture Customization: GRANVISTA Landscape Home Furnishings
Design Period: May 2019 – August 2019
Construction Completion: April 2020
Article Layout: Li Yanan
Construction Foreman: Zhu Xingui
Photography: Liming
Academic Advisor: Zhu Li
Contact WeChat: xigo studio
Company Email: __AI_S_SC0__
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