Pastel Core offers a gentle pause for a young couple in the midst of city life—a refined response by PT ARCH Studio to a deeply personal brief: to create a living space that feels calm, intentional, and distinctly theirs.
Working within a modest budget, the design strategy focused on prioritizing key functions, using materials with restraint, and celebrating every surface and detail, no matter how small. Storage was a crucial consideration, guiding the design of custom-built furniture that is both compact and efficient.
Originally, the apartment featured a linear, open layout stretching from the entrance through to the kitchen and living area—lacking spatial definition and a sense of rhythm. To address this, the design introduces layered zones of functionality that remain visually connected without being overly compartmentalized.
At the entrance, a striped glass partition integrates seamlessly with a bench and concealed shoe storage. This element extends into a continuous bench that ties the foyer to the kitchen, reinforcing spatial fluidity. Kitchen cabinetry was selectively retained and refined to meet the residents’ light cooking habits, with finishes reflecting the pastel-driven concept.
A flexible workspace doubles as a personal studio for work and streaming, and includes a piano corner for relaxation. Separated from the public areas by a sliding door with a circular cut-out, this room maintains a playful visual connection while allowing privacy. The circular detail also doubles as an interactive element for the couple’s child.
Further inside, a walk-in closet transitions into the master bedroom. Furnishings throughout are intentionally minimal and integrated—softened by charming accents that reflect the personality of the homeowners. The palette pairs pastel greens and mint tones with the quiet warmth of pinewood, achieving a balanced and emotional ambiance.
Pastel Core doesn’t seek attention—it invites presence. Every corner is optimized for comfort and intelligent storage, proving that even a compact home can hold expansive emotional and spatial depth. Though small in size, the project embodies PT ARCH Studio’s consistent design ethos: clarity, subtlety, and a deep understanding of how people truly live.
