NEVER TOO SMALL: Architect’s DIY Beachside Apartment: Sydney 51sqm/549sqf

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

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

[raerae]

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...

[tdb]

I love how this guy has his own style, and even turned his front door into a little art gallery. He's awesome.

[michelebelfiore]

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.

[avengerwidow]

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

[shellycb]

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.

[Madillusionist]

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

[tankscape]

This apartment is so much fun to look at! Every inch was thoughtfully designed to maximize storage and guest sleeping areas.

[TamaraJoy]

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!

[juliac]

A proper appartment and not just a holiday rental. This is how much stuff real people have. Very good storage ideas.

[sianthesheep]

This is an incredibly intricate complex design that at the same time appears flowing and seamless - what a talented architect he must be!

[SajjieSajj]

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!

[dfnac]

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!

[imnotsurewhy]

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.

[tierneycreates]

This man needs some type of architectural design award! Absolutely brilliant apartment!

[Mimi-uidu]

Finally an example of someone living beautifully with a decent amount of stuff.

[sophiaisabelle]

That apartment looks fairly minimal yet it covers so much space. The areas are breathable and are calming to see.

[jah]

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.

[tallibethau]

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.

[kellykwon]

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.

[Discerning_Viewer]

This is the ONLY "plywood-heavy design that doesnt scream "plywood!" Stupendous creativity.