In this family home in Melbourne, Japanese-inspired micro-bedrooms maximize space. Screened in by blush-toned sliding doors, the simple raised platform hides a plethora of storage in the surrounding walls.

In compact homes, plenty of storage is a necessity. Underneath this loft sleeping area is a walk-in closet, and hidden beneath the stair treads are pull-out drawers and cupboards, ensuring that no inch of space is wasted.

Nestled in behind this L-shaped partition are two bedrooms. The dividing wall not only provides privacy in the open-plan apartment, but offers a versatile spot for storage, display and seating. Lofty clerestory windows atop the partition allow light to filter through to the rest of the house.

Design firm Workstead kitted out the kitchen of this Brooklyn apartment with a sleek wall of storage that is anything but boring. Built under the stairs, tall cupboards visually extend up to become the balustrade.

Maintaining the restrained use of materials and fresh aesthetic found elsewhere in the house, this petite kitchen peninsula houses all appliances, dishes and food behind wooden doors, keeping sight lines clean and simple.

Inspired by Japanese folding screens, an accordion-style wall of doors closes up to reveal a compact wall of kitchen appliances and accessories.

This tiny apartment in Budapest was redone with the intention of listing it on Airbnb. A small square sink, a two-burner convection cooktop and a wall of kitchen essentials within easy reach means it’s perfect for those on the go. Plus, the peg-style system allows shelves to be moved as necessary, keeping things fresh and interesting.

In this Manhattan micro-house, a sliding partition transforms the space with the push of a button. When closed, it becomes an entertainment center. When partially open, a back wall of closets is accessible and when fully open, as seen here, a queen-size bed folds down from the wall.

Italian interior designer and architect Silvia Allori’s combined home and office space does more than double duty. Modular platforms can act as tables, seating or sleeping areas, while the walls either open up to reveal closet storage or fold down to reveal a hidden library. Behind the living space, the kitchen is hidden behind a glamorous golden curtain.

For kitchens short on counter space, a pull-out cutting board is paramount for quick and easy meal prep. Work surfaces concealed as slim drawers create an illusion of spaciousness.