10 Degree Home: A Masterstroke in Micro-Architecture

Towodesign Transforms a Small Apartment into a Free-Flowing Space

The 10 Degree Home project started in June 2017 and was completed in January 2018. The original space consisted of a single bedroom, dining room, bathroom, and kitchen. To satisfy the needs of modern life, Towodesign applied the concept of "micro-architecture" to redesign the interior layout. The result is a new logic that is commonly utilized in the transformation of small apartments.

Several "function boxes" were embedded into the space to integrate daily functions. Activity areas were created between these boxes, transforming the original apartment, which consisted of regular rooms, into a free-flowing space. The continuous areas outside the function boxes constitute the circulation, with the yellow kitchen cabinet serving as the spatial center. This transformation eliminated the "oppressive feeling" often associated with small apartments and expanded the sense of space.

The design team faced challenges in inserting the functional boxes into the original space. For instance, the box for entertainment blocked the circulation and view of the whole space. However, these problems were solved by rotating all functional boxes by 10 degrees. This rotation not only resolved the spatial conflicts but also added an element of fun for the occupants.

The 10 Degree Home was realized using green and cost-effective E0-grade plywood as the main material for the boxes. This choice demonstrates that even common materials can create a striking visual effect through creative design. Mirrors were used in the corners to minimize the oppressive feeling without bothering the occupants with reflections. The original cement pillars were retained, forming a contrast with the newly built blocks and adding to the aesthetic appeal of the space.

The 10 Degree Home has been recognized for its innovative design and effective use of space. It was awarded the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom. They are venerated products and bright ideas that advance art, science, design, and technology, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.