In Whampoa Garden, Hong Kong, designers Ada Wong and Eric Liu of littleMORE Interior Design have transformed a compact 460-square-foot (42sqm) apartment into a bright and welcoming home for a young homeowner and her two cats, Milou and Tintin.
The apartment embraces a palette of olive green tones, warm oak finishes, and soft natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout. While the footprint is modest, every area has been designed to make the most of the available space without feeling crowded.
One of the most impressive parts of the project is how the designers balanced storage, functionality, and comfort while also creating features that work for both the homeowner and her feline companions.
Two Small Rooms Become One Spacious Bedroom and Workspace
The area that immediately stands out is the combined bedroom and home office.
Originally made up of two smaller rooms, the designers removed the division between them to create a single open space that feels significantly larger and brighter. Natural light now flows across the entire room, helping both zones feel connected while still serving different purposes.
The built-in home office has everything needed for work and study. Shelving above the desk provides room for books and display items, while a low cabinet on one side and a taller storage unit on the other keep everyday essentials organized.
A pair of steps separates the workspace from the sleeping area, creating a subtle transition between the two functions without requiring walls or doors.
A Platform Bed Packed with Hidden Storage
Beyond the steps, the bedroom continues the apartment’s green and wood palette.
A built-in platform bed helps define the sleeping zone while also adding valuable storage underneath. The raised platform allows belongings to be tucked away out of sight, helping maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance.
A green leather headboard introduces color and texture, while textured wallpaper adds another layer of visual interest behind the bed. Along one wall, extensive built-in storage keeps clothing and personal items neatly organized.
A low bookshelf acts as a divider between the sleeping and working areas, creating separation while maintaining the openness of the room.
Let’s take a look around the rest of the home…
A Living Room Designed Around Comfort and Clever Storage
Moving into the living room, the designers faced the challenge of an unusually shaped floor plan.
To make the room feel more balanced, custom storage solutions were incorporated throughout the space. A triangular storage area opposite the sofa helps make use of an awkward corner, while a low custom TV cabinet keeps the room visually open.
The furniture selection remains simple and streamlined, helping the space feel larger than its actual size.
Along the window sits a multi-functional bench that serves several purposes. For the homeowner, it’s a comfortable place to enjoy a cup of tea or read a magazine. For Milou and Tintin, it doubles as a lookout point where they can watch the world outside while the owner is away.
A Bright Dining Area Connected to a Compact Kitchen
The dining area and kitchen are separated by a charcoal-grey metal-framed glass sliding door.
This simple addition solves several challenges at once. The transparent glass allows natural light to move freely between the rooms, helping both spaces feel brighter and more open. At the same time, the door helps contain cooking smells while preventing the two curious cats from wandering into the kitchen.
The solution preserves the open feel of the apartment while providing practical separation when needed.
Handmade Tiles Add Personality to the Kitchen
Inside the kitchen, color becomes a defining feature. Aqua-colored handmade tiles bring energy and character to the compact room. Their vibrant tone contrasts beautifully with the off-white cabinetry, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space.
The combination of handcrafted textures and simple cabinetry gives the kitchen a distinctive look while helping the room feel more layered and inviting.
Through the use of built-in storage, multi-functional furniture, open sightlines, and a calm palette of greens and natural wood, Ada Wong and Eric Liu of littleMORE Interior Design created a home that comfortably accommodates its owner and her two cats while making every square foot count.