The SBC Apartment Reorganises a 538-Square-Foot São Paulo Home
Amy Duong — January 20, 2026 — Art & Design
References: instagram
The SBC Apartment is a compact duplex designed by Studio Papaya in São Paulo, Brazil, with a total area of 538 square feet. The project reconfigures the original layout by absorbing the former balcony into the interior, creating a continuous ground floor that combines kitchen, dining, and living areas.
At the entrance, a wooden screen conceals storage while allowing light and airflow. A green-painted threshold extends across walls and ceilings to guide circulation through the space. The kitchen uses pale cabinetry with exposed plywood edges and metal work surfaces, while integrated shelving and built-in furniture align along the perimeter to maximize storage.
The upper level overlooks the living area and is defined by a slim guardrail and partial partitions. Slatted elements filter light between spaces, and custom millwork in the bedroom incorporates lighting and power while preserving floor area. Material transitions and color shifts distinguish zones across the two levels.
Image Credit: Studio Papaya
At the entrance, a wooden screen conceals storage while allowing light and airflow. A green-painted threshold extends across walls and ceilings to guide circulation through the space. The kitchen uses pale cabinetry with exposed plywood edges and metal work surfaces, while integrated shelving and built-in furniture align along the perimeter to maximize storage.
The upper level overlooks the living area and is defined by a slim guardrail and partial partitions. Slatted elements filter light between spaces, and custom millwork in the bedroom incorporates lighting and power while preserving floor area. Material transitions and color shifts distinguish zones across the two levels.
Image Credit: Studio Papaya
Trend Themes
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Micro-living Innovations — Efficient use of space in small urban dwellings spurs creative design solutions for functionality and aesthetics.
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Integrated Interior Design — Seamlessly blending storage and living spaces highlights the potential for custom, built-in furniture that optimizes small footprints.
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Sustainable Material Usage — The use of exposed plywood and metal surfaces points to a growing emphasis on materials that balance sustainability with modern design.
Industry Implications
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Interior Design — Transformative design strategies for compact apartments can revolutionize the interior design industry by focusing on maximizing space efficiency.
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Real Estate Development — Adapting existing structures into compact living spaces could redefine urban real estate offerings, catering to minimalist lifestyles.
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Furniture Manufacturing — The shift towards built-in and multifunctional furniture creates novel opportunities for innovation in furniture manufacturing.
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