Hidden trap door is just one of the cool space-saving design features of this smart micro-apartment

New York-based <a href="http://www.allen-killcoyne.com/" target="_blank">Allen+Killcoyne Architects</a>'s elegant Upper East Side micro-apartment demonstrates that strategic space-saving techniques are the key to transforming <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/tag/tiny-homes/" target="_blank">tiny spaces</a> into liveable ones. With just 340 square feet of living space to work with, the architects subtly defined the areas within the apartment, and managed to create the illusion of a larger space in the process. Read on to learn more about some of the clever tricks they employed.

According to an interview with Houzz, Stephen Killcoyne said that the client wanted a “clean, simple, elegant and timeless" design for the tiny studio.

Working towards that goal, the architect's team started the design process by gutting the existing space, removing any and all restrictions in order to create optimal open space to work with.

From the beginning, the design focused on defining spaces strategically.

Although some small spaces remove all signs of spatial definitions in order to create one wide living space, Killcoyne used a few strategic design tricks to establish separate interconnected living, sleeping and cooking zones.

To subtly define the spaces, the architect used a soft palette combination that included light oak floors, quartersawn maple cabinets and simple white paint throughout the apartment.

As far as the kitchen, Killcoyne concentrated on providing as much hidden storage space as possible.

Since the owner doesn't do much cooking, appliances were limited to the basics: a microwave oven with a dishwasher drawer below and a two-burner stovetop.

The bathroom was also fitted with a number of space saving features.

When it comes to space saving, according to the architect, one of the most important aspects is living minimalist lifestyle.