For Studio Balcaen Kwan founders Bettina Balcaen and Tillie Kwan, great design goes far beyond beautiful spaces—it’s about making everyday life actually work. As architects, designers, and mothers, the duo brings a refreshingly practical lens to modern living, applying spatial thinking to everything from morning routines to managing the invisible mental load. We sat down with both to explore how thoughtful design can support real families—function, flow, and all. —Noa Nichol
As both designers and mothers, how has your definition of a “well-designed space” evolved since having kids?
Our perspective on a “well-designed space” hasn’t really changed that much over the course of our careers but we have come to appreciate that good design, practicality and safety are not mutually exclusive.
You often talk about human-centred design—how does that philosophy translate into the realities of family life and parenting?
When working with our clients we do our best to listen carefully and really understand how people live, their family’s needs, their schedules and their life patterns. We try our best to apply the same philosophy to our home lives.
The “mental load” is such a big topic for modern mothers—how do you apply a designer mindset to manage it more effectively?
Part of our job is to help clients make decisions by distilling options and prioritizing their needs and desires in terms of their spatial environment. We help people establish guiding principles that will inform the decision-making process.
You’ve said clutter isn’t always about stuff—can you unpack how decision fatigue plays into how our homes feel and function?
As professionals, we work with our clients collaboratively to make considered decisions. We curate the decision-making process, often by process of elimination, so that everyone feels good about the result that we arrive at together.
What are a few simple spatial systems or design tweaks that can instantly make mornings with kids smoother?
A few simple things that immediately come to mind include low level lighting for a gentle morning wake-up (lights on dimmers); a cozy, informal eating area; and a well-organized mudroom/entry area where things are easily accessed.
How can thoughtful design help create calmer, more intentional evenings for busy families?
For a calmer evening, we think it is important for homes to have dedicated quiet spaces (reading nooks, informal dining area, home office) that are still well connected to the main parts of the house. It is also important to have well designed spaces for rituals (bathrooms, bedrooms) and special rooms that have a focal point (fireplace, view, natural light). Storage and organization are also key, so that things have a home and can be put away.
When designing homes for working parents, what are the most overlooked elements that actually make the biggest difference day-to-day?
Often, laundry rooms and mudrooms are an afterthought and viewed as secondary spaces that don’t merit as much attention. It makes a big difference when these areas are well laid out, with logical organization and considered storage.
For families living in smaller spaces, what are your go-to strategies for maximizing function without sacrificing a sense of calm?
Some tried and true strategies include doubling up of functions and prioritizing spatial needs. Smart storage is also important. While an investment, built-in millwork often makes sense because it is more efficient and ends up making smaller spaces feel more generous.
How do you personally balance beauty and practicality at home—especially when life with kids can feel anything but “curated”?
Finishes and furnishings in our home can be both beautiful and not too precious. It is important to create zones in the home for various activities (kids’ toys, crafts) and establish a philosophy that everything has a place and returns there at the end of the day.
What’s one design habit or system you swear by in your own homes that keeps everything running (relatively) smoothly?
Some things we swear by include basket for the keys at the entry, well placed charging stations and areas for devices, a functional garbage and recycling system and good millwork inserts to organize items.
Mother’s Day is a moment to pause and reflect—how has becoming a mother influenced your creativity and approach to your work?
Being a parent forces you to be more judicious with time. It gives a person perspective and a clearer understanding of what is important and what is not. Because you don’t always have the time to mull over a design problem continuously, it makes you step back and come back with a fresh point of view.
For moms feeling overwhelmed by their space, where’s the best place to start when it comes to creating a home that truly supports them?
It’s important for all parents to prioritize their mental well-being and create an area, even if it is small, for rest and refuge. While it is easier said than done, purging and reorganizing belongings is an important seasonal ritual.
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