Space-saving ideas for small city homes: compact furniture designs from a mini "plug-in" kitchen to a new-look spiral staircase

Britain has the smallest homes in Europe - an average of 85 square metres - according to Swedish furniture giant Ikea.

Coming soon to the superstore is a mini kitchen with worktop and sink for £99, plus fridge, £69, and a plug-in portable induction hob (£35) that you can hang up on the wall.

During London Design Festival this month, you can experience the tiny home designed by Nina Tolstrup and her partner Jack Mama of Studiomama, pictured below.

It’s only 14 square metres — about 150sq ft — and fits into a north London conversion that the couple rent out.

Viaduct director James Mair is recreating the elements of the compact home on the mezzanine at Viaduct contemporary furniture and lighting store in Summers Street, EC1.

It offers a decent bed, good storage, comfortable lounging, a workspace, a sitting/dining area, plus cooking and shower facilities.

Says Mair: “Here is an elegant solution for a tiny central London building.”

For more clever furniture ideas for small spaces, scroll through the gallery above...

14 Square Metre House, Sept 15-24; Viaduct, 1-10 Summers Street, EC1.