Engel & Völkers
  • 4 min read
  • 03.05.2019

What is Micro Living and why is it called the urban living concept of the future?

A look at the current market trends reveals that the large conurbations are still immensely popular as places to live. After all, their extensive offer of jobs, entertainment and general infrastructure fits perfectly with the modern 24-hour lifestyle.

Against this backdrop, the question arises as to how the building projects of the future will cater to this development. The answer may be provided by a form of real estate that students and older people in particular are already very familiar with: affordable and comfortable micro flats in residential complexes.

Housing complexes of the future

So-called cluster developments are already the talk of the town in some countries. The term describes modern housing complexes that combine private living space with shared premises and amenities. The dimensions of these complexes can vary. There are smaller complexes where residents also share cooking and living areas, as well as larger projects with gardens and recreational facilities for the general public.

When resources are shared among several households, there are clear financial advantages. The smaller footprint of the properties also reduces construction and rental costs.

But these housing complexes score points not only in financial terms. For while there is often a threat of loneliness in the hectic, fast-paced cities, these modern complexes offer their residents a sense of belonging.

What is Micro Living?

Cluster developments are not the only urban construction projects designed to make living in cities more affordable in the future. The magic word is micro living. This trend is about reducing the living space of a flat or house to the bare essentials.

This concept is especially popular among young workers who are looking for minimalist and affordable flats in attractive neighbourhoods and at the same time do not want to compromise on quality of life.

As a rule, Micro Living flats offer the same modern comfort as conventional flats. However, designers rely on sophisticated multifunctional furniture as well as compact technology solutions to make ideal use of every square centimetre.

Short-lived lifestyle trend or long-term solution?

Housing complexes with communal rooms are reminiscent of student shared flats or country life in times long past.

The fact that this living concept is now making a comeback in urban areas may seem unusual. But it has proven itself over the years and still offers residents many advantages today, be it in making social contacts or in the search for high-quality, affordable living space in a prime location. It is probably thanks to these advantages that apartment complexes continue to be popular, especially among young professionals. This group attaches great importance to value for money and a sense of community in the urban jungle.

Micro living, on the other hand, is a much younger phenomenon. However, thanks to constant advances in interior design and household technology, which make downsizing much easier, the trend is spreading fast.

Anyone looking for a future-proof real estate investment is well advised to go with these new living concepts. After all, they offer access to exclusive locations - and at affordable prices. Thanks to thoughtful use of space and a focus on the key elements of a modern lifestyle, less is definitely more with these properties.

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