Occasionally, I take on freelance interior design projects from clients worldwide on Upwork. A common theme of these projects is small square footage, on which the clients typically want to optimise for multiple functions with design.
Considering that modern design styles value monumentality and dedicated spaces, these projects might feel like an impossibility.
But what most of us miss about small spaces is that our senses matter more than the square footage. There are cultures around the world who instinctively understand that our spatial experience is defined by sensorial design.
In today's issue, we'll consider the psychology of experiential design in small spaces. We'll examine how different cultures employ intentional design strategies to shape their spatial experiences.
Let's dive in!
Want to Go Deeper? Start Here!
The Psychological Effects of Living in a Small Space - Liza Achilles: Explores how "a small space encourages the expansion of the mind, since there's less in the exterior to distract the mind"
How Does Living in a Small Space Affect Mental Health & Wellbeing - Barbulianno Design: Claims that "people who live in smaller homes are generally happier than those who live in larger ones."
The Psychology of Living in Small Spaces - Undark Magazine: Investigates what living in micro-units "does to our mood.”
How to Design Open-Concept Small Apartments - Beyond Aesthetics Playbook: Explores space-saving solutions for small apartments and compact homes.
The big idea: Why some cultures embrace compact living
While Western design styles emphasise spaciousness and visual dominance to evoke awe and define status, other cultures have developed spatial philosophies that embrace small spaces.
For example, the Japanese concept of "enough" emphasises the quality of experience over the quantity of space.
A traditional Japanese home can have rooms that serve different functions throughout the day. But each functional transition is treated as a mindful ritual rather than a compromise.
Comparatively, the Scandinavian concept of hygge takes a different approach, one of intentional limitation. Rather than fight against long, dark winters in small spaces, Nordic people lean into intimate spaces.
They use layered textures, warm lighting, and seasonal flexibility to make their compact homes feel like protective cocoons.
Mediterranean designs often extend their living spaces beyond the confines of the building. A Greek island home might have a small interior square footage. But life flows seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces.
These layouts create a sense of spaciousness through connection, not isolation.
What these groups understand is that our perception of spatial comfort is tied to our cultural values and psychological needs. When we feel cramped in a room, it's not because it is small.
It's because the space lacks intention, transition, and sensory richness.
A 700-square-foot flat can feel claustrophobic if its design doesn't consider how we move and experience the space. On the other hand, a 400-square-foot studio can feel expansive if it is designed to engage the senses and support our daily rhythms.
