I often come across articles about “How to Design for Small Spaces”—showcasing projects where people spend over $100,000 on renovations to transform tiny apartments into hyper-functional spaces.
These designs, often in densely populated cities like Hong Kong, feature foldable furniture and ingenious storage solutions to optimize every inch of space. While undeniably impressive, they make me pause and wonder: is this truly the solution? Does pouring so much money into a space that’s less than 500 square feet genuinely improve our quality of life—not just practically, but mentally and emotionally?
Having lived in a 600-square-foot apartment in Hong Kong, I know firsthand that size isn’t just a matter of functionality—it profoundly impacts how we feel. By local standards, my apartment was considered spacious for two people, complete with built-in closets and hidden storage. Yet, despite its clever design, it never felt like home. The lack of space and any meaningful view left me feeling confined, uninspired, and mentally drained. For someone like me—an architect who values the emotional connection to a space as much as its utility—it was a constant reminder of what was missing.
The contrast became painfully clear during trips to Macao, where hotel rooms, even modestly furnished, felt lighter and more inviting. Those spacious layouts created an ease and comfort my small apartment couldn’t replicate. The experience made me realize that a home isn’t just about how well it functions—it’s about how it makes you feel.
Then came a transformative chapter: my move to Dubai. Here, for a fraction of what I paid in Hong Kong, I now live in a spacious apartment 1200sf with a breathtaking view of the Burj Khalifa. My home isn’t just functional—it’s a sanctuary. It’s open, filled with natural light, and welcoming in a way that uplifts my spirit. Returning home at the end of the day feels like a gift. Even after dining at luxury restaurants or visiting five-star hotels, I often find myself thinking, I’d still rather be at home. That’s the power of a space designed to prioritize openness, comfort, and livability.
Why Space Matters for Mental Health
Living in a spacious home does more than just provide physical comfort—it fosters mental well-being. In a small, cramped space, every movement feels calculated, every piece of furniture feels like a compromise, and even simple tasks can feel like a burden. Over time, this takes a toll on your mental state, making it harder to relax, recharge, and find joy in your daily life.
In contrast, larger spaces offer a sense of freedom and possibility. The ability to move without restriction, to enjoy natural light, and to feel connected to your surroundings creates a foundation for a healthier mindset. Spacious homes promote clarity, reduce stress, and allow us to truly rest, making them essential—not a luxury—for a better quality of life.
Rethinking the Way We Design Homes
The focus on designing for small spaces often glorifies ingenuity and efficiency, but it risks overlooking the bigger picture: humans thrive in environments that offer room to breathe, both physically and mentally. While maximizing storage and optimizing layouts are impressive feats, they cannot replace the mental relief that comes from having more space.
Instead of trying to fit more into less, perhaps we need to challenge the idea that small spaces are inevitable. Can we reimagine homes that prioritize mental health and livability over efficiency alone? Spacious homes aren’t just about comfort—they’re about creating an environment where we can truly live, not just exist.
The Bottom Line: Space Is Essential
No amount of foldable furniture or clever design can replace the feeling of truly loving where you live. A home should be more than a functional box; it should be a space that inspires, calms, and supports you every day.
Having experienced both ends of the spectrum—the cramped efficiency of Hong Kong and the open comfort of Dubai—I’ve learned that space is not a luxury. It’s a necessity for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Spacious homes allow us to move beyond survival and into a state of well-being where we can thrive.
Let’s rethink what makes a home livable. It’s not just about how much we can fit into small spaces but about how much those spaces can give back to us. After all, don’t we all deserve homes that make us feel happy, inspired, and truly at peace?
What’s your experience? I’d love to hear how space—or the lack of it—has shaped your life and well-being.
