As cities continue to grow and living spaces become smaller, Miele is exploring how homes could adapt.
Presented during Milan Design Week 2026, the Miele Compact Living: Kitchen Unit powered by Hettich concept combines a kitchen, dining area and home office into a single multifunctional furniture system. Rather than dedicating separate rooms to different activities, the concept is designed to transform throughout the day, adapting to changing needs.
The concept was developed by Miele in collaboration with furniture fittings manufacturer Hettich as an exploration of how kitchens and living spaces might evolve as homes become smaller.
One Space, Multiple Functions
At the heart of the concept is a modular unit that can serve as a workspace, cooking station and dining table.
In the morning, it functions as a desk. At lunchtime, adjustable surfaces and integrated appliances create a cooking environment. Later in the day, the same space can transform into a dining area for meals or entertaining.
The goal is to make better use of limited floor space by allowing a single area to perform multiple roles rather than dedicating separate rooms to individual activities.
Never Too Small’s Essential Guide to Your Kitchen is packed with practical ideas for layouts, storage and making the most of compact spaces
Compact Appliances And Digital Assistance
Miele says the concept builds on appliances already designed for smaller homes, including combination oven and microwave units, integrated refrigeration and a steam cooking drawer scheduled to launch in March 2027.
Digital features also play an important role. Through the Miele app, users can access recipes, manage shopping lists, synchronise connected appliances and receive guided cooking assistance.
According to Miele, the aim is to simplify everyday household tasks while making compact living more practical and enjoyable.
Designed Around Future Living
Beyond functionality, the concept also explores the use of natural materials, tactile surfaces and lighting to create a more comfortable living environment despite the reduced footprint.
While the Compact Living system remains a concept rather than a commercial product, it offers an interesting look at how appliance manufacturers are beginning to think beyond individual products and towards broader questions around housing, urbanisation and the future of the home.
Tech That Fits Take
As homes get smaller, every piece of furniture and every appliance needs to work harder. Miele’s Compact Living concept explores what happens when a kitchen, dining table and workspace are combined into a single system. It may only be a concept for now, but the idea of making better use of limited space feels increasingly relevant.
Update (June 2026): If you’d like to see the concept beyond the renderings and press images, Never Too Small has published a walkthrough with Miele Vice President of Design Janina Forberger demonstrating how the system shifts between work, cooking and dining modes.
