At just 6.89m², The Cabanon claims the title of the world’s smallest apartment, yet it defies expectations with its innovative design and luxurious amenities. Situated atop a 1950s residential building in Rotterdam, this architectural gem demonstrates that even the tightest spaces can be transformed into a haven of comfort and functionality, from the great minds of STAR strategies + architecture and BOARD (Bureau of Architecture, Research and Design).
The architects behind The Cabanon, Beatriz Ramo and Bernd Upmeyer, not only designed the space but also use it as a second home to host family and friends, allowing them to infuse their personal needs and philosophies into the project. Their vision was to create a living space that prioritises quality over quantity, illustrating how thoughtful design can maximise utility in minimal square footage.
The Cabanon cleverly divides its compact area into four distinct sections: a 3-metre-high living room, a cosy 1.14-meter-high bedroom, a rain-shower toilet, and an intimate spa. Each space is tailored to specific functions, showcasing how varying ceiling heights can enhance the sense of openness and allow for multiple activities without feeling cramped.
This adaptability is at the core of The Cabanon’s design philosophy. By recognizing that different rooms don’t require the same height, the architects created a dynamic environment where the apartment seems to expand as more elements are integrated.
Standardisation Meets Luxury
A notable feature of The Cabanon is its strategic use of standard products, from the mattress dimensions in the bedroom to the bathtub in the spa. This approach not only streamlines costs but also enhances accessibility. Rather than relying on custom solutions, the design adapts to available materials, proving that luxury can exist even in the smallest settings.
The generous 6m² window provides a breathtaking view of the city, further amplifying the feeling of spaciousness.
While initial colours were different, because of the very good offers provided to them, the colours were changed. Budget constraints led to a palette of unexpected choices, such as black Chinese marble and mint green finishes, which add a distinctive charm to the space.
The Cabanon embodies a philosophy of "epicurean reduction," as Beatriz and Bernd embrace the benefits of simplifying their lifestyle. Their choice to use a compact space fosters a deeper connection to their surroundings and encourages a detachment from material excess. This intentional approach transforms what might seem like a limitation into a luxurious living experience.
While The Cabanon may not serve as a one-size-fits-all solution for urban living, it offers invaluable insights into the potential of small-scale design. By redefining our understanding of space, it challenges conventional norms about what a home should be.
The project advocates for maximising possibilities rather than merely reducing size, encouraging a mindset shift towards smarter, more sustainable living solutions. In a time when housing affordability and space efficiency are critical issues, The Cabanon stands as a beacon of creativity and inspiration, proving that the smallest spaces can indeed hold the greatest potential, but in no way does it advocate towards the reduction of surfaces as the only strategy towards affordable housing, neither it pretends to become the “house of the future.
Photographs by Ossip van Duivenbode.
