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Transformer Apartment in Manhattan: 450 Square Foot Redesign with Convertible Cabinets

on November 11, 2010

Architect Michael Chen and assistant Kari Anderson redesigned this 450 square foot Manhattan apartment using transformer cabinets that reconfigure the space for different uses. The renovation removed most interior walls and replaced them with moveable elements that create distinct zones for cooking, sleeping, working, entertaining, and storage.

Design Details

  • Architect: Michael Chen with Kari Anderson
  • Location: Manhattan, New York
  • Size: 450 square feet
  • Approach: Removed walls, added transformer cabinets
  • Functions: Living, sleeping, cooking, working, entertaining, storage

Living Configuration

Manhattan transformer apartment living configuration

Photos by Aya Brackett


Cabinet System Open

Transformer cabinet system opened

Multi-Function Studio Layout

Studio apartment with transformer furniture

Bedroom Configuration

Transformer apartment in bedroom mode

Floor Plans Showing Transformations

Transformer apartment floor plans

Click to enlarge

Video Tour

Lessons from Transformer Apartment Design

  • Removing Walls Creates Flexible Space: Eliminating fixed partitions allows moveable elements to define rooms as needed
  • Cabinets Can Function as Walls: Storage units that pivot or slide create temporary room divisions
  • Multiple Floor Plans from One Space: Transformer furniture enables different layouts for different activities
  • Architect Involvement Maximizes Results: Professional design ensures mechanical systems work reliably
  • 450 Square Feet Serves Full Apartment Functions: Compact spaces can include all residential features when thoughtfully designed

Learn More

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Alex

Alex Pino is the founder of Tiny House Talk, a leading resource on tiny homes and simple living since 2009. He helps readers discover unique homes, connect with builders, and explore alternative living.
{ 10 comments… add one }
  • Jay Creighton
    July 11, 2012, 11:35 pm

    Sweet!

    Reply Link
    • Alex
      July 12, 2012, 1:15 pm

      Hey Jay! Glad you liked it. Hope you’re doing great.

      Reply Link
  • Brian
    September 25, 2014, 7:03 pm

    Love your apartment guys. I think I saw it before your painted it. Wasn’t too sure of the paint job until I watched the video and hey you did a great job. Thanks for sharing. Cheers from Australia

    Reply Link
  • Aleisha
    December 27, 2014, 2:23 am

    This paragraph is really a nice one it assists new web people,
    who are wishing in favor of blogging.

    Reply Link
  • tom
    September 14, 2015, 7:11 pm

    all these little homes are nice but what are the external measurements and hoe cheap can you make one to stick on your mtn property

    Reply Link

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