A Compact Unit that Multitasks

Making the most of its double height, this hybrid unit — conceived by local multidisciplinary studio Please Feel Invited — maximises space by combining multiple functions. Here design director Chompisa Amatayakul shares more about the concept

Design Anthology: How did you first meet the client?

Chompisa Amatayakul: The clients had been searching for an interior designer online; when they came across our site, they reached out to us directly.

Can you tell us about them and their lifestyle?

The clients are a family of four, with parents and two kids. Due to the pandemic, the adults had to work from home and the children were doing home schooling. They have a lot of possessions but like to keep things tidy and organised.

What was their brief to you for the project?

They wanted to fit various functions and amenities into the very limited space without it feeling cramped or obstructing the city view. They wanted a living space, dining area, private working area, children’s sleeping zone and storage spaces to fit within the 20-square-metre living area of the 54-square-metre apartment.

What’s unique about the building and the location?

The apartment is in an ultra-luxurious 37-storey condominium  in the centre of Bangkok, with convenient access to the Skytrain. The units are especially unique due to their high ceilings and terraces that provide open ventilation.

How did you approach the project — what design references did you try to incorporate into the space?

We treated each function as a mass and tried to combine them to fit the space horizontally, designing multifunctional furniture that maximises each space. We also tried to achieve visual continuity by using the same materials and details, such as linear handles.

Please tell us a little about the material choices for the space.

We decided to use a single material and went with a light oak to lighten up the space and give it a homey feeling. This also magnifies the sense of continuity and minimalism.

Which pieces are custom designed?

Two pieces that stand out are the platform with the table and the working pod with a bed above. The table is multifunctional and can also be used as a coffee or dining table. The pod offers privacy for both the work area and the bed above without losing the connection to the rest of the room. The pod is almost two floors high and still captures a contained view.

Do you have a favourite element or design detail in the architecture or interiors?

We’re obsessed with the small details like the furniture grooves, handle details and shadow gaps. At the same time, we also prioritised functionality so we wouldn’t waste any space, and we’re proud of that outcome.

Images / Piwat Shevakittekun