In an increasingly competitive market, rental apartments need to offer more than a good location. Creating memorable interiors has become a key differentiator, helping increase a property's value and appeal while providing a more enjoyable living experience. This was the vision behind Estúdio May, a 41-square-meter project designed by architect Lívia Leite, of Estúdio Maré, in Vila Buarque, São Paulo.
Designed as a rental property, the apartment was conceived to challenge the aesthetic often associated with compact, furnished homes. Rather than relying on neutral, impersonal interiors, the project embraces a welcoming, functional architectural approach filled with personality, demonstrating that even small spaces can express a strong sense of identity.
The strategy began with the intelligent use of the floor plan. Despite its compact dimensions, the studio features well-defined areas without compromising the feeling of spaciousness. The living room and kitchen were integrated into a single social area, while the sleeping area can be separated by a green curtain, providing privacy when needed without blocking natural light or disrupting the apartment's visual flow.
"We wanted to create an apartment that people would remember for the experience it offers. Today, renters are also looking for comfort, character and a welcoming atmosphere. Architecture can completely transform that perception, even in a floor plan of just 41 square meters," explains architect Lívia Leite.
Since the property was intended for rental, every specification had to strike a balance between aesthetics, durability and ease of maintenance. Estúdio Maré opted for a neutral architectural foundation, allowing the project's personality to emerge through the combination of furniture, textiles, lighting and decorative objects.
The composition brings together colors, patterns and different textures in a balanced way, creating contemporary, light-filled and inviting interiors. Rather than relying on excess, the project uses carefully selected details to establish a distinctive identity without compromising the space's versatility.
Beyond aesthetics, functionality was a key consideration in every design decision. Several elements were custom-designed specifically for the apartment, including a worktop integrated into a shelving unit with an adjustable rail system, allowing for flexible use. Planned niches also provide additional storage without visually overwhelming the interiors.
Multifunctional furniture plays an equally important role in the concept. The sofa, for example, can be converted into a bed, accommodating different living arrangements and making the apartment more versatile for guests and residents alike.
Another important aspect was the enhancement of existing materials. The original wooden flooring was restored, bringing warmth to the interiors and creating an elegant contrast with the contemporary finishes selected for the kitchen and bathroom.
All cabinetry and stonework were custom-designed and produced for the project by Estúdio Maré, ensuring tailored solutions for each area and making the most of the available floor space.
In addition to the architectural and interior design, the studio was responsible for the entire construction management process. This included coordinating suppliers, overseeing execution, specifying finishes and lighting, and managing the final styling and decoration to ensure that the original design concept was faithfully translated throughout the renovation.
"Designing for rental does not mean creating generic spaces. On the contrary, an apartment with character adds value to the investment and provides a much more enjoyable living experience. We believe it is precisely the details that make a property stand out in such a competitive market," says Lívia Leite.
Estúdio May demonstrates how architecture can completely transform the perception of a compact property. Through intelligent layout solutions, custom-designed furniture and carefully curated décor, the project proves that limited square footage does not restrict comfort, functionality or identity. On the contrary, it can be the starting point for a much richer and more memorable living experience.
