Small & Charming

Small & Charming, written by Kersti Pikk

Designed by interior architect Aet Piel, this apartment in Tallinn follows all the golden rules of small home design. Every square metre has been functionally utilised, and the calm tonality and plain materials "cheat" the space into something larger.

The apartment building designed by KUU architects is an immediate eye-catcher on Niine Street with its striking vertical boarding and wooden ribs, injecting a modern aesthetic into the neighborhood. Following the same design ethos, Aet Piel optimized a small (45 m2) yet lofty apartment on the third floor, prioritizing clever and practical design cues.

The building's architecture allowed for captivating interior spaces up to four meters high on the top floor. Exploiting this, a mezzanine was seamlessly integrated under the lofty ceiling, balancing the proportions of the space. Strategic adjustments were also made to the main floor plan. Sacrificing bedroom space for a wardrobe, and replacing the original L-shaped kitchen with a central, airy kitchen island. The kitchen appliances are integrated into a high wall block that also zones the space between the kitchen and the hall.

Piel was called in by a family in Hiiumaa who had bought the apartment for their son, who had come to the capital to study. Aet aimed to create a "bachelor apartment", where the whole family of five could occasionally get together. According to the family, the small space fits comfortably, and thanks to the clever layout, they don't complain about the lack of space.

In the master bedroom, a wardrobe occupies part of the space, leaving a cosy niche for a spacious bed with storage underneath. For extra storage, the apartment has a mezzanine over the wardrobe, accessed via a wooden ladder, and a large modular sofa by Borg in the living room.

A consistent color palette unifies the space, with the same shade used on porches, interior doors, and bespoke furniture. The curtains complement the palette, providing variety through different fabrics and designs.

Great emphasis has been placed on proper lighting: in addition to plenty of natural light and practical spotlights, a new Bona Fide pendant light by Tõnis Vellama reigns supreme in the high living room ceiling. Inspired by a classic chandelier with candles, the clean, minimalist form adds a stylish accent to the apartment's spacious living room.

The interior design thought out to the last detail, complements both the clean and fresh architecture of the building and the romantic surroundings of Kalamaja.