The Living in a Box project by ORA involves the transformation of a compact apartment in Prague, Czech Republic, into a custom-designed living space suitable for a family of four. The goal was to optimize the interior layout to ensure comfort and functionality, with a focus on creating a weekend retreat rather than a permanent residence.

Project Overview

Originally part of a larger unit, the apartment spans less than 37 square meters. The initial layout proposed by the developer featured several partitions, resulting in cramped living spaces with narrow corridors. However, ORA was brought in during the construction phase to rethink the layout and maximize the available space. By eliminating unnecessary partitions, they were able to create a cohesive studio apartment, with only the bathroom remaining separate.

Stretching Space

Central to ORA’s design is the creation of a flexible living area that allows for movement and relaxation. A rectangular space in the center of the studio accommodates a table and chairs, with ample room for stretching out when the table is moved and chairs stacked. Mirrors strategically placed behind the kitchen enhance the sense of space, making the room appear larger than it is.

Innovative Sleeping Solutions

Inspired by medieval box beds, ORA devised inventive solutions to create separate sleeping areas within the compact studio. The parents’ bed is cleverly concealed between two shelves, with a flip door at the foot of the bed allowing for easy access and expansion of space. The children’s sleeping quarters are housed in a two-level box, with the lower bed doubling as a couch during the day and the upper bed hidden behind a small door. Oak slats lining the box seamlessly blend into the surrounding walls, integrating the sleeping areas into the overall design.

Unified Design Approach

To maintain a sense of cohesion throughout the apartment, ORA opted for a uniform material palette dominated by massive oak. Different wood finishes delineate various zones within the space, with light-toned oak used in the kitchen area symbolizing the morning, transparent lacquer for daytime areas, and darker staining for nighttime spaces.

The Living in a Box project exemplifies ORA’s innovative approach to compact living, showcasing creative solutions that prioritize both functionality and aesthetics in a limited space.