Quito Apartment Features Hidden Living Quarters Behind Custom Cabinets

We all know that small space living is a global trend that is destined to boom amid rapidly rising population in cities and high apartment prices. Keeping this in mind, several designers and companies are coming up with innovative furniture solutions like the Pocket Closet by Ori Living that makes it possible to make the most out of a small apartment.

Architects Juan Alberto Andrade and Maria Jose Vascones have also collaborated on a similar project. Named Doméstico, they have created a habitable artifact inside a 27.5-square-meter mini studio of Moshe Safdie & Uribe Schwarzkopf’s Qorner building in the city of Quito. Comprising custom wood cabinets, this project is created with an aim to condense everyday activities within one easily transformable organizing element without having to sacrifice space or comfort.

The architects have designed the artifact in a way that it divides the living space into two areas. One part is dedicated to daily activities, services, and equipment while the other is reserved as an open area with no obtrusive elements. There are independent modules for functions in the concealed unit. It takes care of all living needs including a kitchen area, storage, laundry room, bedroom, library, table, bar, and closet.

Each module is organized through a horizontal axis making two sections; the lower area for everyday activities, and the upper module for storage. The mobile ladder is an important part of the unit. It can be moved easily and stacked on a dedicated bar spanning across the layout for accessing the upper storage space safely.

The design of Doméstico is mainly based on mobile, flexible, and foldable elements that transform to reveal their functions. For example, it has a retractable bed that drops down from the unit and can be put back leaving no signs of its existence behind. There is also a curved cabinet that hides a sliding wardrobe within.

Unlike the robotic furniture by Ori Living, the architects of Doméstico have concealed living areas with required features inside cupboards mounted on the walls. The simple wooden construction with black handles creates a simplistic look and facilitates easy operation without clutter.

Also Read: 15+ Most Innovative Multifunctional Furniture for Small Living Spaces

Doméstico features flexible living spaces hidden behind wooden cabinetry and also an open living area with a simple couch, table, and a couple of chairs on the other side. It combines architecture and furniture design to create a small apartment that meets the needs of micro-living. The project challenges the spatial and formal limitations of small space living through woodworking and architectural strategies.