A Dream Realized in a Compact Space

In Singapore, 24-year-old Sasha Marie Shelley embarked on a remarkable journey to carve out her own personal haven in her family’s new flat. After 24 years of sharing a bedroom with her artist sister, Sasha craved the privacy that would allow her to flourish in her role as a local youth speaker.

Innovative Space Solutions

Moving into a 742 sq. ft. Build-To-Order flat posed its challenges, especially with only two bedrooms available. Inspired by a South Korean vlogger who maximized a mere 75 sq. ft. into a cozy retreat, Sasha began researching ways to transform her family’s service yard into a bedroom.

Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

When her mother's plans for a home office fell through, the service yard became a viable option. However, converting this 1.4m by 2.56m area into a functional bedroom required creativity and careful planning.

"I spent hours on Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube," Sasha recalled. "I knew that I had to think outside the box to make this work." Her new layout involved installing a window with privacy film to ensure comfort and light management.

The Quest for Multi-Functional Furniture

Determined to make the most of the limited space, Sasha set her sights on a loft bed from Ikea, complete with a desk and storage solutions. Despite doubts from family and delivery personnel about its fit, she was undeterred.

"I had to block out the noise and believe in my vision," she said, with a friend's help in assembling the bed.

Creating a Cozy Retreat

With some modifications, including sacrificing traditional wardrobe doors to save space, Sasha crafted a serene sanctuary. Special touches, like a corner prayer area marked by fabric, added a personal touch that reminds her of what truly matters.

Facing Challenges with a Smile

Though limited in storage and affected by nearby kitchen smells, Sasha viewed every obstacle as an opportunity for positivity. "The sounds of water pipes above have a soothing ASMR vibe!" she joked.

Proudly Embracing Her Personal Space

Despite the absence of air conditioning, Sasha is looking into creative cooling solutions and mosquito netting to ensure her sanctuary is comfortable and inviting. "This is my space, styled just the way I like it!" she exclaimed.

Responding to her family's concerns, Sasha's mother expressed her pride, while her sister declared the room "cosy and comfortable." Friends have been eager to visit, even if the space is too small for gatherings.

Social Media Reactions: A Mixed Bag

While Sasha shared her transformation on social media, reactions varied—from criticism for not choosing a bigger home to intrigue about her compact lifestyle choices.

Yet for Sasha, none of that matters. "Having my own room was one of my biggest dreams, and I’m just excited and grateful to finally have it." Her cozy, personalized corner is not just a bedroom; it’s a testament to her creativity and independence.