Space Invaders: New Objects for Small Spaces
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 03.29.07
This month's Metropolis Magazine covers design for small spaces: "As urban dwellers are confined to increasingly compact quarters, there is greater demand for space-saving innovations in the home. Storage solutions and efficiency appliances are two ways to make the most of small square footage." Some, like the Ecopod Recycling Unit, the Columbo designed Boffi Minikitchen and the Sheer Kitchen have been seen here before; others are wall and storage systems that are not particularly unique to small spaces; others are very cool, like a fascinating "dining desk from Poggenpohl or the Belatto Action Wardrobe that also can act as a room divider. The new Bosch fridge fits in 24 inches and has a vacation button to reduce energy usage (and even a Sabbath Switch for orthodox jews!), Remember, Small Fridges make Good Cities! Worth looking at in ::Metropolis
Years ago, in a book on small spaces, I saw a stove-shaped appliance that combined stovetop, small oven and dishwasher in one unit. I thought it was the greatest thing ever, and have never seen it again.
Anybody know about it?
If I had to leave in a place with very little space for a fridge ... or was going to design my own kitchen, I would go for chiller drawers. They are naturally more effecient than any standing unit since the cold air does not fall out when it is opened. If I had a space that was only 24 inches wide, I would install some shelving in it, not install a fridge!