Explore This Tiny 240-Square-Foot Studio’s Small Space Secrets!

It's always challenging to make a <a href="https://inhabitat.com/tag/tiny-apartments/" target="_blank">tiny apartment</a> feel more spacious than it actually is, so we're impressed with the smart design techniques architect <a href="http://timseggerman.com/" target="_blank">Tim Seggerman</a> tapped into to make a 240-sq-ft studio feel spacious and airy. Located on Manhattan's Upper West Side, this brownstone unit was masterfully renovated into a gorgeous and efficient space lined with bright, blonde-colored wooden panels. The final result, which Seggerman described as a "crafted jewel box" to <a href="http://www.dwell.com/house-tours/article/space-saving-wood-paneled-apartment-manhattan" target="_blank">Dwell</a>, was inspired by the master craftsmanship and carpentry of Japanese furniture designer George Nakashima.

When the client first reached out to Seggerman for his architectural expertise, Seggerman told Dwell that "you couldn't imagine a place that was more messed up."

To create the illusion of space within the same 240 square foot footprint, Seggerman created a new living environment surrounded by high quality woodworking, joinery, and space saving techniques.

So as not to detract from the beautiful wood paneling, the lighting is mostly recessed behind papyrus panels.

Since the client is a college professor and an anthropologist, Seggerman created two libraries to store her books, one on the first floor and the other on the second.

The second library, located next to her bed, is designed like a cubby with a banded maple ceiling.

A view of the kitchen area on the first floor.

A view of the bedroom and cubby-like library on the second floor.