Trends: Living Large in Small Spaces
Several factors are making micro apartments one of the hottest trends in big-city living.
In large cities, the demand for small scale apartments far outstrips the number of units available. Data from 2012 indicate roughly 1 million New York City apartments were classified as efficiencies, studios or one-bedroom spaces. Meanwhile, close to 1.8 million people were seeking such accommodations, leaving 800,000 people out in the cold.
To respond to the rising demand for centrally located living spaces, many cities are embracing the concept of micro apartments and redefining zoning criteria accordingly. While existing codes may require efficiencies and small studios to offer 400 to 700 square feet of living space, new codes may permit micro-units ranging from 150 to 400 square feet.
As compact as they are, micro apartments often include a functional kitchen, bathroom and combined living/sleep area. Many units are only slightly smaller than traditional efficiencies and studios. Some are fully furnished, feature practical built-in storage, stowaway beds and down-sized appliances, and include utilities, cable TV and Internet in the monthly rent.
As a result, small spaces are finding traction with graduate and medical students who want affordable apartments convenient to school and work. They’re popular with young professionals who want a place to eat, sleep and regroup along with ready access to restaurants, grocery stores, shops, bars, parks, museums and music.
They’re convenient as work-week crash pads for professionals with long commutes or those who have relocated for extended but temporary assignments. They attract adults who prefer the dynamics of city living and seniors who are seeking ways to streamline their lifestyle.
To add to the appeal, some micro-unit complexes are situated in renovated historic buildings. Such is the case in Providence, Rhode Island, where the 185-year-old shopping Arcade was converted into 48 living units supplemented with shared amenities like a laundry room, bike storage and game room.
Micro-units are springing up in high-cost cities with a vibrant nightlife. They can be found in Boston, Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle, and complexes are in development or on the drawing board in cities as divergent as Cleveland, Ohio, Nashville, Tennessee, and Washington, DC.
Micro apartments aren’t available in every region, but chances are there’s one coming soon to a city near you as more Americans opt to live large in small spaces.