OFGA’s 6 Big Ideas for Small Spaces

Expansive, spacious and efficient Hong Kong homes are not easy to come by and with the average square footage going down every time a new development goes up, we need all the help we can get to make the most of the space we do have.

Complement and contrast are ones of the ideal solutions to add texture and depth to one space

In this "Big Ideas for Small Spaces" series, we speak to 3 Hong Kong designers divulge their suggestions - from multi-functional furnishings to space-saving solutions - for making the most of your space. Winston Yeo and Effie Yang of OFGA generously share 6 top tips.

Tone on tone and textural contrasts can each work wonders in a minimal space, according to Winston Yeo and Effie Yang

1. Go Your Own Way
Always start from your own lifestyle rather than filling your apartment with generic storage. Eliminate rooms that are not essential so you can focus on the space that really matters. Don’t be afraid to break the mould.

2. Sight Lines
Open a room up so that it is in the line of sight of another space – this allows the perception of each space to be greater than the sum of its parts.

3. Taper and Tone
Think about visual weight. When something looks lighter, it often feels bigger. For example, juxtaposing a heavy bronze panel with thin panel lines, or tapering a walnut table to a thin, tactile edge can work wonders.

4. Textural Effect
Light colours bring a surface closer while dark colours push a surface into the background. Rough textures help diffuse light, creating a softer presence, whereas smooth textures reflect acute rays, solidifying boundaries.

5. Simple Style
A simple palette of materials will help to maximise a space. Choose tones, colours and textures that are complementary to their surroundings.Reconsider minimalism: Minimalism can actually appear to take up more space. While a recessed skirting might occupy more depth than a standard, minimalist wall skirting, the former will create the perception of a larger, lighter space.

6. Reconsider minimalism
Minimalism can actually appear to take up more space. While a recessed skirting might occupy more depth than a standard, minimalist wall skirting, the former will create the perception of a larger, lighter space.

Images courtesy of OFGA

See more: Ove Rogne Discusses What Makes a Functional Future

A version of this article is originally published in our May 2018 issue.