Genius 'Micro Apartment' Packs Everything Into 15 Square Meters

Like the rest of the world’s popular cities, Beirut’s property market has spiralled out of control, making it hard to find affordable accommodation in the city. However, Lebanese studio Eliemetni are trying to combat the problem with their new 15-square-metre micro apartment, providing guests with all the creature comforts of a super-stylish space at an affordable price.

Situated on the roof of a charming period building in Beirut’s Achrafieh district, the aptly-named Shoe Box apartment was designed by studio founder Elie Metni for a client who wanted a clean, serene and simple space that could sleep two guests and accommodate around five people in total, which was a challenge considering its 15-square-metre size.

‘Beirut nowadays became a place where it is hard to find accessible rates for quality accommodation,’ says Metni. ‘That’s why micro-apartments and small spaces start having more and more popularity offering quality spaces. Downsizing became trendy.’

Considering its pint-sized profile, this property still packs a punch when it comes to the spectacular rooftop views it has over Beirut’s historical buildings. The studio has also maximised the access to natural light wherever possible and designed a super-flexible internal space that can perform a multitude of functions depending on the needs of the guests. The overall aim was to create a ‘powerful sense of pleasure, simplicity, ease and efficiency,’ according to Metni.

Even though space is at an absolute premium, there’s still ample room for a double bed, which faces a large window framing the cityscape beyond. The bed also features in-built storage caddies for belongings and plugs – a clever substitute for the bedside table. Over head, there are suspended lights that are perfect for late-night reading, while underneath the bed frame is a pull-out drawer, cupboard and a set of shelves.

For those on business trips, there’s even a desk with bespoke storage created for laptops, stationery and phones, while those looking to relax can sit on the built-in sofa complete with footrest, plus book and magazine storage, a coffee table, bin and cup holder, all neatly tucked away under it.

Got people around for dinner? No problem – there’s still enough space in the two-metre-wide room to have everyone around the fold-out dining table, with chairs and an extra moveable unit-cum-seat. Hidden behind a glass door at one end (designed to let ample light into the heart of the apartment) is the compact bathroom.

The entire apartment has been decorated in a clean, neutral scheme, with white epoxy resin flooring to help bounce light around the room, while the custom-made furniture has been created using white laminated plywood.

Planning a trip to Beirut? The property is available to rent out on Airbnb from just £40 per night.

To see more of Eliemetni’s projects, check out the website here.

To see more ways to maximise compact interiors, read this article on 15 space-saving tips for city apartments, plus take inspiration from this 25-metre apartment in Barcelona.

About the author

Charlotte Luxford

Architecture & Design Editor

As Culture Trip's architecture and design expert, Charlotte has more than 12 years' industry experience, working for an array of national publications. Prior to joining Culture Trip, Charlotte was the editor of Grand Designs Magazine, steering the magazine in a new direction and overseeing a new look for the title. She has also worked for mass media organisation TI Media, providing content for Livingetc, Ideal Home, Country Homes & Interiors and Homes & Gardens. Charlotte has always had a passion for design and is also a qualified interior designer, having completed a diploma in her spare time. At Culture Trip, Charlotte has worked closely with institutions including the Design Museum and London Design Festival, as well as interviewing design heroes such as Thomas Heatherwick and Sir Terence Conran.