Architect Xiao Qian optimizes 39m² apartment in Tokyo

Xiao Qian, a Shanghai-born architect trained at Tongji University and Tohoku University, has designed a highly efficient 39m² apartment in Tokyo. Rather than attempting to fit excessive furniture into the small space, she focused on functional design, lighting, and material selection tailored to the needs of a single occupant.

The design utilizes several smart spatial solutions. The 1m² entryway features wall-mounted storage for shoes and daily items, complemented by sensor-activated lighting to assist with late-night entries. To streamline the renovation, she applied Mortex material directly over existing floor tiles, creating a seamless, water-resistant, and durable surface.

The living area emphasizes a natural aesthetic through the use of wood flooring, linen-effect wall surfaces, and textured ceilings. This approach, combined with custom-measured furniture like a chestnut brown leather sofa, helps the compact space feel significantly larger and more comfortable than its actual footprint.