Taiwan's urban housing market, particularly in Taipei, New Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, is dominated by compact apartments. According to a 2023 report from the Ministry of the Interior, the average apartment size in Taipei is around 33 square meters (355 square feet) for a one-bedroom unit. Many residents live in studio or one-bedroom apartments where every square centimeter counts. Choosing the right space-saving furniture is not just a matter of convenience, it is essential for comfortable daily living. This article presents a detailed, evidence-based overview of space-saving furniture picks available in Taiwan, covering specific products, retailers, price ranges, and practical considerations for small-space dwellers. Whether you are moving into your first rental or upgrading your current home, these picks will help you make the most of your limited square footage.
Before diving into specific furniture categories, it is helpful to understand the local market. Major furniture retailers in Taiwan include IKEA (with stores in Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung),宜得利家居 (Nitori),特力屋 (Test Rite/Homebox), and MUJI (Muji Taiwan). Online platforms such as Shopee Taiwan, PChome 24h, and Ruten also offer a wide selection. Local brands like 有情門 (Youthex) and 生活工場 (Working House) provide options tailored to Taiwanese tastes. Prices quoted in this article are in New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) and reflect typical retail prices as of mid-2024. For those starting a new home, reading the complete guide to starting a home in Taiwan can provide broader context on furnishings and setup.
1. Modular Sofas and Sectionals
Modular sofas are a top choice for small apartments because they can be reconfigured to suit different layouts and needs. In Taiwan, several retailers offer modular sofas designed for compact spaces.
IKEA Kivik and Söderhamn Series
IKEA's Kivik and Söderhamn series are popular modular sofa options. The Kivik 2-seat sofa (approx. 140 cm wide) retails for about NTD 14,900. The Söderhamn series offers even more flexibility with individual seat modules that can be arranged as a sofa, chaise, or corner unit. A three-seat Söderhamn configuration costs around NTD 22,000. Both series have removable, washable covers, a practical feature for Taiwan's humid climate. IKEA also provides free online planning tools and in-store consultations at their Taipei (Xinzhuang and Neihu) and Taichung stores.
Nitori Modular Sofas
Nitori, a Japanese retailer with multiple branches in Taiwan, offers the “N-Series” modular sofa. The basic N-Series 2-seat unit (approx. 130 cm wide) is priced at NTD 11,900. Nitori's modular sofas are slightly narrower than IKEA's, making them better for very tight spaces. They also offer a “low-back” version that can double as a floor sofa, popular in Taiwanese homes where floor seating is common. Nitori stores in Taipei (Zhongxiao Fuxing and Banqiao) and Taichung (Taichung Station) have display models for testing.
Local Custom Options
For those who want a custom fit, local furniture makers like 有情門 (Youthex) offer modular sofa systems. Their “Folding Sofa” series (摺疊沙發) starts at NTD 19,800 for a 2-seat unit. These sofas are made with Taiwanese wood and foam, and the modular design allows for easy reconfiguration or expansion. Delivery within Taiwan is typically free for orders over NTD 10,000.
2. Folding and Extendable Dining Tables
Dining tables that can fold or extend are essential for small apartments. In Taiwan, where eating at home is common but space is limited, these tables provide flexibility for daily meals and occasional gatherings.
IKEA Nordviken and Stråla
IKEA's Nordviken extendable table (120-180 cm) is a bestseller. It seats 4-6 people when extended, but folds down to a compact 120 cm for daily use. Price: NTD 6,990. The Stråla folding table (80 cm diameter) is another option for two people, priced at NTD 2,990. Both are available at IKEA stores and online.
Nitori Folding Tables
Nitori offers the “Foldable Dining Table” series, which includes a 90 cm round table that folds into a slim 30 cm width for storage. Price: NTD 4,900. Nitori also sells wall-mounted folding tables that can be used as a desk or dining surface, priced around NTD 3,500. These are particularly useful in studio apartments where a dedicated dining area is not possible.
MUJI Compact Tables
MUJI Taiwan sells a 75 cm square “Foldable Table” made from natural wood. It folds flat to 5 cm thick and weighs only 8 kg. Price: NTD 4,200. MUJI's table is popular for its minimalist design and ease of storage. Available at MUJI stores in Taipei (Xinyi, Zhongxiao), Taichung, and Kaohsiung.
3. Wall-Mounted Desks and Shelving
Wall-mounted furniture saves floor space and is ideal for home offices or study corners. In Taiwan's small apartments, wall-mounted desks are increasingly common for remote work.
IKEA Lagkapten / Alex Desk with Wall Mount
IKEA's Lagkapten table top (120x60 cm) can be mounted using the Alex drawer unit as a support, but for a true wall-mounted solution, many Taiwanese residents use the “Ekby” shelf brackets (NTD 250 each) and a custom-cut wooden top from B&Q (特力屋). A complete DIY wall-mounted desk can cost under NTD 2,000. B&Q stores in Taipei (Neihu, Zhonghe) and Taichung (Nantun) sell wood boards and brackets.
Nitori Wall Desk
Nitori sells a ready-made wall desk (壁掛けデスク) with a 100x40 cm surface and a built-in shelf. Price: NTD 3,800. It comes with mounting hardware and instructions. The desk can support up to 15 kg. Available at Nitori stores and online.
MUJI Wall Shelving System
MUJI's wall shelving system includes shelves, a desk top, and various accessories. A basic 2-shelf unit with a 100 cm desk top costs about NTD 5,500. The system is modular, you can add more shelves or a cabinet later. MUJI offers free installation for orders over NTD 10,000. This system is popular for creating a seamless home office in a corner of the living room or bedroom.
4. Beds with Storage
Beds with built-in storage are a game-changer for small bedrooms. In Taiwan, where wardrobes are often small, under-bed storage is valuable.
IKEA Malm and Brimnes
IKEA's Malm bed frame with 4 storage drawers is a classic. The full-size (150x200 cm) version costs NTD 12,500. The Brimnes bed frame with 4 drawers and a headboard shelf is slightly more expensive at NTD 14,900. Both are available in white and black-brown. The drawers are on casters and can be pulled out easily.
Nitori Storage Bed
Nitori's “Storage Bed” (収納ベッド) series includes a full-size frame with two large drawers (50x80 cm each) under the bed. Price: NTD 10,900. The frame is made of particleboard with a melamine finish. Nitori also offers a “Low Storage Bed” (30 cm height) for rooms with low ceilings, priced at NTD 9,500.
Local Brand: 生活工場 (Working House)
生活工場 sells a “Storage Bed with Hydraulic Lift” (油壓掀床). The full-size model (150x200 cm) costs NTD 15,800. The hydraulic mechanism allows you to lift the mattress platform and access the entire under-bed area for storage. This type of bed is particularly useful for storing bulky items like luggage or seasonal bedding. 生活工場 has stores in Taipei (Zhongshan, Ximending), Taichung (Yizhong), and Kaohsiung (Xinjue).
5. Nesting Tables and Stools
Nesting tables and stackable stools provide extra surface space when needed and can be tucked away when not in use. They are popular in Taiwanese living rooms and bedrooms.
IKEA Lack and Hol
IKEA's Lack side table (NTD 399) is lightweight and stackable. You can buy two or three and nest them together. The Hol set of 3 nesting tables (NTD 2,990) is a more stylish option with a bamboo top. These are available at all IKEA stores.
MUJI Nesting Tables
MUJI sells a set of 2 nesting tables (large: 60x40 cm, small: 45x30 cm) made from beech wood. Price: NTD 4,200. The tables have a natural oil finish and can be used as side tables or low dining tables when seated on floor cushions.
Nitori Stacking Stools
Nitori's “Stacking Stool” (重ねられるスツール) is a compact stool (30x30x40 cm) that can be stacked up to 4 high. Price: NTD 990 each. They are made of polypropylene and come in white, brown, and gray. These stools are often used as extra seating for guests or as a small step stool for reaching high shelves.
6. Multi-Functional Furniture (Sofa Beds, Ottoman with Storage, etc.)
Multi-functional furniture serves two or more purposes, which is ideal for small apartments. Sofa beds, storage ottomans, and convertible tables are common picks.
IKEA Friheten and Holmsund Sofa Beds
IKEA's Friheten sofa bed (NTD 17,900) is a corner sofa that converts into a double bed (160x200 cm). It also has a storage compartment under the chaise. The Holmsund sofa bed (NTD 13,900) is a 2-seat sofa that folds out into a single bed (90x200 cm). Both are available in several colors.
Nitori Sofa Bed
Nitori's “Sofa Bed with Storage” (収納付きソファベッド) is a 2-seat sofa that folds out to a 140x200 cm bed. Price: NTD 14,900. The seat cushion lifts to reveal a storage space (60x40x20 cm). This is a good option for a guest room that doubles as a home office.
Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are versatile pieces. IKEA's “Valltorp” ottoman (NTD 1,990) has a wooden lid and a 45x45x40 cm storage compartment. Nitori's “Fabric Storage Ottoman” (NTD 1,490) is slightly smaller (40x40x35 cm) but comes in multiple colors. These can be used as footrests, extra seating, or a coffee table with a tray on top.
7. Space-Saving Furniture for Specific Rooms (Kitchen & Bathroom)
Kitchens and bathrooms in Taiwanese apartments are often very small. Specialized space-saving furniture can make these areas more functional.
Kitchen: Over-the-Sink Drying Rack and Magnetic Knife Strip
Over-the-sink dish drying racks are common in Taiwan. The “Keter” brand over-sink rack (available at 特力屋) fits most standard sinks (80-100 cm width) and costs NTD 1,200. It provides a flat surface for drying dishes without taking up counter space. A magnetic knife strip (NTD 300-500 from IKEA or PChome) keeps knives off the counter and within easy reach.
Bathroom: Over-the-Toilet Shelf and Corner Caddy
Over-the-toilet shelving units are a standard space-saving solution in Taiwanese bathrooms. IKEA's “Tjusig” shelf (NTD 1,990) fits over most toilets and provides two shelves for storage. Nitori's “Corner Caddy” (NTD 890) is a 4-tier wire shelf that fits into a corner of the shower or bathroom. These are available at 特力屋 and online.
For those planning a move or setting up a new home, reading moving house Taiwan step by step can help with logistics, while first-time rental checklist provides a comprehensive list of items to consider. If you are buying a home, buying a home in Taiwan costs gives an overview of expenses. For layout inspiration, small apartment layout ideas offers practical configurations.
Conclusion
Space-saving furniture in Taiwan is widely available across a range of price points and styles. From modular sofas and folding tables to wall-mounted desks and storage beds, the options are diverse. When choosing furniture, consider your specific room dimensions, lifestyle needs, and budget. Visiting physical stores to test comfort and quality is recommended, especially for sofas and beds. Online platforms like Shopee and PChome often have lower prices, but check shipping costs and assembly requirements. With careful selection, even the smallest Taiwanese apartment can feel spacious and functional.