Hong Kongs land is precious, where creating infinite possibilities within limited square footage remains the greatest challenge in interior design.
Compact unit designs are a key focus in multiple residential categories of the Home Journal Awards each year. This article highlights five winning projects from this edition, featuring exquisite homes from 350 to 522 sq ft, which not only break the constraints of original layouts but also perfectly embody the philosophy of “small spaces, grand layouts”.
1. Gardenia
Designed by Hong Kong interior design firm Burgundy Interiors, the residential project “Gardenia” won Gold in the Home Journal Awards 2025 “Residential – Small Home Solutions” category. Located in Tin Ma Court, Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon, this 360 sq ft home draws inspiration from boutique hotels, blending Nordic minimalism with Japanese wabi-sabi to give homeowners a sense of travel upon returning home.
The entire project adopts a Nordic wabi-sabi style, creating a warm and distinctly linear feel. Materials include matt timber and polished marble to enhance natural textures, highlighting contrasts between stone and other elements for added cosiness. The layout features two bedrooms and a living room, with an open-plan living area merging into the kitchen, separated by a movable marble dining table that accommodates up to 8-10 people for gatherings. Hidden storage solutions, such as above and below display cabinets and under a bespoke sofa, cleverly address storage needs.
Burgundy Interiors
https://www.burgundyinteriors.com/
Telephone: +852 9018 9687
Address: Room 15, 9/F, New City Commercial Centre, 2 Lei Yue Mun Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
2. GM815
The residential project “GM815” in Kam Tin, Yuen Long, with a saleable area of 450 sq ft, was crafted by Hong Kong interior design firm Arm Studio Limited and won a Merit Award in the Home Journal Awards 2025 “Residential – Apartment (Less than 500 sq.ft.)” category. The design team created a cosy home for a couple expecting a new baby, prioritising safety and aesthetic living. Earthy tones dominate, infused with warm walnut wood textures for a serene, modern minimalist atmosphere.
Safety and softness guide the design, using curved lines and rounded corners for smooth, pressure-free circulation. The living rooms streamlined TV wall echoes the curved sofa back wall, fostering a gentle sense of enclosure and belonging. The master bedroom employs layered wall lighting for a relaxing, romantic retreat; the nursery uses bright warm tones and flexible layouts, leaving room for a childs growth. Practical functions blend seamlessly with aesthetics, reflecting thoughtful anticipation for family life.
Arm Studio Limited
WhatsApp：+852 92213684
Address: Room 02, 12/F, Core Hub, 46 Chun Yeung Street, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
Email: armstudioltd@gmail.com
3. Heng Fa Chuen Block 4
Hong Kong interior design firm C3 Design & Decorative Ltd. designed the “Heng Fa Chuen Block 4” project, with a saleable area of 471 sq ft, earning a Merit Award in the Home Journal Awards 2025 “Residential – Apartment (Less than 500 sq.ft.)” category. It captures the essence of modern minimalism, ingeniously combining functionality with spatial beauty.
An open-plan layout unites the living room, dining area, and kitchen. Light wood-effect porcelain tiles on the floor pair with earthy wall colours for a bright, comfortable feel; wood elements and furniture tones extend a natural warmth. The master bedroom and workspace incorporate platform storage and built-in wardrobes to maximise every inch. Earthy wood finishes unify the visuals, complemented by track lighting for soft, layered illumination that balances utility and elegance. The workspace nook transitions smoothly between rest and work, embodying urban equilibrium; the open kitchen spotlights black marble with practical appliances and a bar counter for elevated style.
C3 Design & Decorative Ltd
https://www.c3design.com.hk/
Telephone / WhatsApp: +852 90788666
Address: Room 10, 8/F, Core 45, 43 Chun Yeung Street, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
4. Kornhill
Hong Kong interior design firm De Stijl Interior Design Limiteds Kornhill residential project won Gold in the Home Journal Awards 2025 “Residential – Kitchen” category. Spanning 522 sq ft, the home uses deep tones for a sophisticated Italian style. Natural timber and stone textures mix with glass, mirrors, and metal for a layered, luxurious vibe.
The original enclosed kitchen was transformed into an open layout to boost space and functionality. Facing structural limits on major changes, designers extended the TV wall on one side to refine corners, resolving asymmetry and achieving balanced harmony that exemplifies design ingenuity within constraints.
De Stijl Interior Design
https://www.destijl-hk.com/
Tel: +852 25060118
WhatsApp: +852 61632369
Address: Room B, 21/F, Lok Yeung Building, 212-220 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
5. On Wing Building
Hong Kong interior design firm Hans Interior Design Limiteds On Wing Building project won Gold in the Home Journal Awards 2025 “Residential – Apartment (Open-plan Studio)” category. In Sheung Wan, this ~350 sq ft home employs Japanese wood aesthetics for a simple, bright living ambiance. The original layout—two rooms, bathroom, separate kitchen, and living/dining area—felt cramped despite clear zoning.
The team opened the kitchen to the living area for airy transparency and better flow. Light wood tones run throughout, paired with soft lighting for a natural, warm, comfortable atmosphere that captures the “simple yet extraordinary” essence of Japanese small-space design.
Hans Interior Design Limited
https://www.hansdesign.com.hk/
Telephone / WhatsApp: +852 97263775
Address: Room 802, Willy Building, 48 Kai Hong Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
