NEVER TOO SMALL: Architect’s DIY Beachside Apartment: Sydney 51sqm/549sqf
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Inspired by Japanese and Scandinavian architecture and interiors, and the space efficient, built-in joinery found in yachts and caravans, the aptly named beâCHâlet in Sydney’s seaside suburb of Bronte, was designed and hand crafted by architect and artist Matt Reynolds. Originally run down and lacking both storage and laundry facilities, removing walls and adding multi-function joinery has transformed it into a flexible home with plenty of display spaces and hidden storage. The apartment features an open plan living-dining area that includes a 2 piece couch that can be reconfigured to a queen bed, 2 single beds or a bench seat for the dining table. A floating bookcase wraps around the living room and continues throughout the apartment. Other features include a japanese style ‘genkan’ entry way, a cook’s kitchen and 2 bedrooms, one of which serves as a guest room/alternative work space and includes unique storage for all Matt’s sporting equipment. In response to the need to reduce the size of Australian homes, beâCHâlet is a truly stellar example of smaller, smarter design.
Eps 117.
Project Name: beâCHâlet
Architect: www.mattr.studio
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director: Nam Tran
Cinematographer: Jack Mounsey
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Yasmin Bright
Music: Homesick (feat. Bad Room Producer) by Vestalgia
It’s great! My shed has been completed and it turned out nice looking and sturdy and it is way better than the sheds that many of my neighbors had put up. Of course, I'm pleased with the outcome and this Ryan’s kzhead.infoUgkxGZedDTcDfgD7fG_uU4esfx_EgxzlY2_1 Plans was extremely useful to me as a guide.
This is incredible, he's managed to maintain a maximalist aesthetic in a minimalist space, can sleep up to 6 people comfortably, can dine up to 8 people comfortably, has a full kitchen, and understands the value of a genkan/a dedicated shoe removal space. All in 51sqm and accessible to Bronte. Truly I am in awe and were I a far wealthier person than I am I'd see if it were possible to hire him for some reno work I keep putting off. May still take a cheeky look where his office is non-the-less...
Especially in beachside side area or in very snowy area it is necessary thing You do not want sand or mud in every room.
@@SeleneSalvatore absolutely! And for me I just hate bringing any of the dirt from outside in to my home, mopping is tiresome enough. 😂
This man has way too much stuff, hence the need for so much storage. The design is not clean, a 50 sqm place seems cluttered. It makes a realtively big place seem quite small.
@@aleksanderkac7530 Many people have a lot of stuff collected thru years or because of type of work or hobby that make, like books, craft supplies. I like his space, it is still clean and easy to walk and live in this space. Clutter have its designated spaces.
@@SeleneSalvatore I've often felt that many of the living spaces on NTS lack a "soul" because they are so minimalist they don't look like anyone actually lives there. For this man, he redesigned his home to cherish his collected art, made the bathroom to fit his personal preferences and managed to create a real kitchen he can cook in. Since he built his vertical herb garden on his lanai, it's clear the man loves his food and preparing it for himself and guests. He also was able to included a small "gym" without having to leave a huge Nordic Track in some conspicuous space. I could live in similar digs in a heartbeat. However, my home would have a cat and my sewing machine somewhere : )
I love how this guy has his own style, and even turned his front door into a little art gallery. He's awesome.
i know right!!
whyt style. it looks like all the other hipster houses. with all the same stuff for the so called tiny houses. awful
😊Bronte.
Totally agree. I like that he has his own unique style, and he is so skillful that he can design everything so specially, to his needs!!
@@jemandjemand2362 you sound so jealous
Great book for a beginner . kzhead.infoUgkxD-QRFQz730FJEh4f9BYSf-nkIMIC9hL_ this book really starts from the beginning, as in it explains what basic tools are and how to use them. But when it gets to the art of creating joints and how and when to use them this book really starts to teach you something. At least that was my experience.
I am confident in saying that this is the most clever apartment ever featured on this channel, the use that he made of space is beyond perfection, not just that, he also made it look so good, moreover he showed that a small space can work even without being minimalistic; Matt, my sincerest compliments.
this apartment is so well made! i absolutely love how multifunctional it is without compromising storage. it's definitely one of my favorite apartments on this channel now
the large bedroom platform serves as a permanent and inevitable trip hazard
I agree , by far "My Favorite"!!!
@@valeriegalchenko2360 like all beds?
@@laetifico like steps. should be barrier free
WOW... The entry way , the main door...genius. He made the kitchen so spacious.
Lovely to see an apartment that actually houses a lot of things (art, books, sports equipment) and is still functional and has great space for guests (seating and sleeping!). Amazing what he can fit into the size apartment. Like he built the interior around the things he likes and chooses to keep close and accessible. But still keeps the space versatile and multi functional. Really clever.
This man needs some type of architectural design award! Absolutely brilliant apartment!
Finally! An apartment renovation with adequate couch space to sprawl, sleep, and entertain. This place is phenomenal! Kudos!
Personally I would cut down on the number of display pieces, as I feel it adds to the visual clutter. But you know he has considered it as they can be quickly covered up with curtains or sliding doors. And the ways he maximised storage and even sleeping space is downright ingenious
This is an incredibly intricate complex design that at the same time appears flowing and seamless - what a talented architect he must be!
Finally an example of someone living beautifully with a decent amount of stuff.
One of the smartest designers featured on this channel! Genius use of space, amazing flow of natural light, and incredible calculation of storage that is actually aesthetic! Nothing to criticize, well done on this massive renovation.
This apartment is so much fun to look at! Every inch was thoughtfully designed to maximize storage and guest sleeping areas.
This small space has to be my favorite. The amount of storage and natural lighting is absolutely beautiful. The amount of western and eastern influences is just perfection. Nothing is overdone. Absolutely inlove with the whole configuration of the space and attention to minute details is just perfection.
51m2 is not that small!
@@chloeuntrau4588 it’s not tiny but it is small, especially considering how much stuff he has.
Peg board walls, shelving everywhere, furniture that is multipurpose, moves, morph’s and integrates so well in each room! This apartment and it’s owner showcases truely brilliant design ideas! It’s one of my top 5 on this channel!
I thought I wasn't going to like this unit, but after watching it, it's incredibly well designed and liveable. What I particularly like is that he still has a lot of stuff in a small space because storage design is well though out. It feels like an actual human lives there.
I love this apartment. Although there might be slightly too much going on with all the display pieces, it does it so well and for sure looks way bigger than it is. I love the fact that the sofa in the living room and guest room fold out into beds that may be used by guests. The kitchen and bathroom are perfect size. I would always welcome an office room, which is basically my only need for an apartment (apart from easy accessibility by public transport), but I believe that if I was the one living there, the guest room could be remade to better suit my needs. Great job, Matt!
This is probably my favorite one so far and I’ve been watching for a while now! So spacious yet minimal and so functional yet cozy!
ditto!!!
Indeed - me too!! Been watching this channel since forever and I think I actually giggled with joy/amazement at one point. Light, storage, and soul.
It's not minimalist at all! I'd say this is probably the most maximalist apartment I've seen featured on this channel, and I love it for it. 🙂
I felt like watching a Japanese room tour. It makes me feel nostalgic because I'm Japanese. Beautiful!!
one of the most creative, lovingly handcrafted(!) immaculately configured spaces i've ever seen. i'm impressed beyond belief. NTS - give this man an award! just magnificent!!
This is the ONLY "plywood-heavy design that doesnt scream "plywood!" Stupendous creativity.
This dude is a real G. I really appreciate his use of risers to create storage space out of underutilised vertical space in the bedrooms.
I just love this apartment. He seems like a super fun guy, designing everything towards space for social gatherings and having guests over. Still, there's a calmness about his place. One of the best ones so far!
So far the craziest project when it comes to hidden storage. Very very nice and multifunctional furniture.
not one centimeter wasted. Beautifully thought out and deeply personal whilst being welcoming to all visitors. Lovely
The return of pegboard and not the IKEA version! I have never seen a better use of storage design in one of these videos. The layout is well thought out without being fussy. When can I move in ?
i don't know this was the video i needed in nts until nts posted it. incredible creativity, personality and functionality - i am in love with a space and i'm not afraid to acknowledge it
This man is so clever. Really busy yet comfortable, cosy, organised and calming. I love it.
Excellent! So many extraordinarily well thought out ideas in this flat! The sliding panel and pegboard wall to hang up art, the folding panels to let in/ block out light, the wine rack, the see through cabinets to let in light, the under bed storage, the movable sofa...etc etc. I really like this and how it was presented.
This is just perfect. Everything is extremely well thought out and the design will not go out of date for a long time to come. He did a great job making the apartment really functional and more spacious than it actually is.
I love how the books are everywhere in the apartment, there’s personality everywhere and the storage space is so clever. i love this
A proper appartment and not just a holiday rental. This is how much stuff real people have. Very good storage ideas.
Fantastic how he managed to create so much storage! And nothing looks cluttered. It' s a clean esthetic but also warm and comfortable. I like it very much. Cool guy. Greetings from Germany 😊
Brilliant - my favourite Never Too Small home, I loved how he designed and then made his own cabinetry 6:47
Oh my goodness of all the episodes I watched on this channel. This one is my favorite. The architect really thought of it all regarding storage and design. Amazing truly! If I have lots of money I would definitely hire him to design the interior. I think he would do an amazing job
I love this so much. You can bet he must have enjoyed crafting the furniture himself
Beautiful and unique!! !! Also so happy that he mentioned the indigenous people who's land it's on. So awesome!!!
This definitely is a winner. Most of this apartments are linked to minimalism with few personal items. This is different with the huge amount of clever storage, especially the floor ones. The apartment thus is full of his personal belongings and oozes his personality. Yet there is huge flexibility with the design. I could really see myself fitting into such a smal space yet enjoying my stuff.
I'm in awe of the thought process and carpentry skills that transformed this space. Amazing!
Mr Reynolds, you are a class of genius. I am also fascinated by boat build carpentry, Japanese and Scandinavian design. I love all your clever furniture, storage, moving panels combined with mirrors. I can't praise your sofa elements highly enough. Please can one purchase a copy of the design? A total triumph! Removal of bath to fit in own laundry, removal of the walls you did is super practical. I really love the elegant, generously proportioned, multi functional space you have created- and all with your own hands and skill. Wishing you every well-deserved success, Mr Reynolds. G Ire (PS I'm off to watch the video again to appreciate even more of the detail....🤗)
I think this is the very first apartment in this channel that is truly cleverly designed to be used! Kudos to Matt Reynolds!
I'm very impressed with his woodworking and designing ability! Lots of clever hidden storage and versatility!
That apartment looks fairly minimal yet it covers so much space. The areas are breathable and are calming to see.
I don't feel calm when looking at this space ☹
@@alittlebitofjessica Completely agree. While I love maximalism, this is a lot crammed into a small place. While it's very organized, it gives off a very unpleasant messy vibe. There are some lovely ideas, but one too many in the same small place.
@@ancaas7945 I am kind of the opposite, empty spaces makes me anxious, I like to be surrounded by stuff and this space feels like it have the right amount of stuff to make me feel cozy yet not cramped.
This has to be the best NTS apartment I've seen yet. Incredibly thought out. It seems so much bigger than it is with the architect's new design and very clever use of mirrors. The kitchen space is so ample compared to most small apartments. Love all the shelves/bookcases. Very cozy, yet bright and spacious looking. Well done!
LOVE IT. Light bounces everywhere ... this is what every good architect does implement.
I just LOVE all his spaces for books, even below the surface of the tabletop. How cool!
This is one of the only apartments that has an abundance of storage space! Briliant. Although i personally don't like to have too much wood (especially wood covered walls). But otherwise the flat is amazing. So functional and adaptable.
this is so good that left me speechless... so much style yet so much substance... liveable spaces, pragmatic areas, beautiful light, truly fabulous!
This might be the best NTS out there! Incredible and creative without reducing the aesthetic experience
This is one of the best homes I have seen. So well thought out so you aren’t missing any necessities and yet not cluttered.
Love the use of space, the thought that went into it, and the craftsmanship. Great to see an architect who builds too
Absolutely lovely... the combination of Japanese and Scandanavian touches really makes it. It really does feel a bit like being on a ship. One of the loveliest small living spaces I have ever seen. Thank you for sharing this!
20 seconds in and i already love it. this is like my apartment of dream. what a clever design! btw, that wine collection among the display is brilliant. and i just noticed that the tiny display on his door is actually a peekhole 3:28, what a genius!
The apartment is a master class in function and form. The use of every square inch of space is fantastic
this is one of the best apartment renovation i have seen on this channel. We live in 56 sqm , but unfortunately only one bedroom. I love the furniture, bright colors and space solutions.I would move immediately to your place. Also the view to the ocean is fantastic. Enjoy it:)))
Amazing! He maximized every inch of the space brilliantly. The apartment feels functional and cozy and the wood tones bring warmth to the space. Love everything about this apartment.
I love this space! He has thought of every detail and added what he likes and needs.
The front door gallery is brilliant. Love the wine storage and the pegboard uses. So many ingenious ideas!
one of the most thought out and completed flats youve featured on this channel. amazing
The brilliance of this, and the million planning/design decisions this man made...I'm speechless.
This is the perfect example of how your home would turn out if you had the skills and the knowledge :)
What beautiful, functional design, so serene, so well thought out and so filled with light! (This is my all time favorite!) Congratulations on creating a space that leaves nothing out. I could live here ... easily. 💕🌺🌿
One of the best I’ve seen on this channel. Very functional and supremely stylish!
This feature satisfies my love for both maximalist and minimalist design. I love that this looks lived in and there's the clutter of everyday life - yet, it's all contained and neat. Very very aspirational.
This is a generous space for just one person. It is well-designed, for sure. Even more impressive is the number of furniture pieces the architect himself made. The sliding pegboard is a great idea. I agree with some comments about the number of things on display - it is too busy for me, but apparently a matter of individual preference.
I like the entire apartment’s design. Very clever! The highlight that I love the best is the kitchen. It uses the space so wonderful that such a small kitchen has enough space for a full refrigerator, a counter to prepare food and natural light from both sides. The counter and bar design is brilliant! Can’t tell how much I enjoy it ❤
I really like this design, it doesn't feel empty or like the owner had to sacrifice a lot of their belongings to still have a very clean but functional home, dining for 8 people, sleep up to 6 people, a good kitchen and office and still an area for a small home gym. Nicely done and i will for sure take some inspiration from this when designing my tiny house
I aspire to have his carpentry skills. This is easily the most well thought out space I have seen on this channel and my second favourite build overall. Thank you never to small for bringing this and all the other inspiring builds to your channel for us ( the world to see) 🙂
I’m so impressed with his carpentry skills! The joinery looks impeccable 👍
This might very well be my favourite apartment featured here on the channnel! Had to double check its size which only emphasizes how well he used the available space. Everything feels very natural and comfortable to live in with lots of storage, clever ways of inviting multiple people and all equipment you'd expect in a bigger unit, without being cluttered at all. Great style and taste!
Nice to see an apartment that looks lived in and functional for someone who has STUFF.
This is perfect in pretty much every possible way. I wish I could have a space like this...
When I'm able and ready to buy my own home, I am gonna find this gentleman so he can help me design it! Loved everything about the way he designed his space. Amazing!
This is one of, if not THE best design I've seen in this serie of gems. I could totally live here! Everything seems so well thought out and the light is wonderful. Well done ⭐
I loved this!! I bet all the paneling ages really beautifully over time too.
So glad to see the innovative style in furnishings and window coverings. Would love to see a deeper dive into this piece. Bravo to this architect!!
Absolute labour of love, a man living his best life.
Love this! To me personally it feels a bit cluttered with all his stuff around, but the apartment has everything a person could need with lots of storage. Love the aesthetic and color palate. I could totally see myself living there.
This BRILLIANT!!! I love the cleverly thought through furniture that offers so much flexibility and storage. Fantastic. Definitely one of my favorite small apartment solutions.
This is masterful, logistically as well as aesthetically I’ve seen smaller spaces interpreted before but never so beautifully. You have missed nothing, taking advantage of everything possible. Deeply impressed.
This is a brilliant design that’s beautiful and very functional! I love all the thought and innovation that went into the design. Impressive the owner/designer was able to do the work himself! I love how so many items transition into something else when needed. Well done!
I particularly love the table. I think that in open spaces it is hard to blend the kitchen and living areas and I thought this looked great as a table, desk or simply decoration
This is one of my new favorite NTS featured homes. Every space was addressed in a unique and efficient manner. Especially impressive is the fact that he can sleep and host 6-8 people and it doesn’t look cramped. Bravo! 👏🏼
Wow, i watch all NTS episodes, this unit is awesome, the use of space and the finish is insanely good
I am left speechless by Matt's ingenuity! This apartment is one of the most well-designed spaces I've ever seen. It has everything you could ever need/want and truly doesn't feel like small space living because of Matt's custom designs. I would live here in a heartbeat 😍 Just wonderful!!
It's unbelievable the amount of storage he's managed to make room for! Without the apartment looking either stark or cluttered! It would even be ideal for a small family! Loved it
It’s amazing and mind blowing how he turned the shady apartment into this amazing home!!! Absolutely stunning!
My new favorite channel I am obsessing because it goes to show how creative human beings can be this is beautiful he seems lovely 🧡
This has to be the best small apartment I've seen on your channel so far. You can see the owners personality and interests in the whole space. Each room feels cozy without being cluttered, every piece of furniture is functional and exhausts its potential fully and he can have a buch of friends and family over and they'll have a place to sit, eat together and stay the night if they want, 10/10. Very nice change from all the projects that try to be "statements" instead of living spaces and whose owners seem to have no hobbies, low social life and exclusively order takeout
Incredible design and workmanship! This home is a new favourite.
one of the most functional and stylish designs you have on your channel. Chapeau!
This is sooooo clever! I love the clean, warm design, and how spacious it feels! I would definitely be happy living there. 😊
This is one of the best I’ve seen on this channel. He made a small space feel so big and it’s very practical whilst not compromising on style.
Sofas! Plenty of comfortable places to sit or lay down. Too few of the apartments on this channel have this.
We Love this one 😍 it's really practical, and there's actually enough space / storage for everyone's regular amounts of stuff. Plus the light plywood looks great and relaxing 👍
One of the best builds on Never Too Small! I love this
finally a real kitchen -- that i have yet to see after watching all these videos. A kitchen is where life happens for families and friends.
FINALLY a place where I could live in, i have too many books, figures and records, I could see myself living there and storing my stuff, fascinating design, so clever and beautiful.