Smaller is Better

LIVING SMALLER AROUND THE WORLD

The trend to living affordably and SMALLER within City limits is gaining momentum in many populated American cities. The above video looks at how Seattle micro-apartment dwellers have benefited from this affordable housing model.

In Europe, Hong Kong and Japan, the tiny housing movement has existed for over a decade resulting in a proven and sustainable model for affordable in-city living. The most popular and successful single-habitat projects have been targeted to young urbanites with car-free lifestyle and basic needs.

INGREDIENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL SEDU's, MICRO's & CO-LIVING :

1. LOCATION

Low crime in-town areas, high walkability-score with shopping, restaurants, nightlife, transit rail station, grocery, lack of affordable rental units in area .

2. DEMOGRAPHICS

Good single & younger population, healthy employment growth,

3. INFRASTRUCTURE

Good roads, sidewalks, parks, neighborhood watch, security.

4. PUBLIC SUPPORT

Neighbor support & being educated on benefits of efficiency dwellings. Elevating community via involvement with project. Removing the stigma of ' affordable housing' in a community. Investment in development using crowd-funding/co-op and land trust models.

5. CITY PLANNING

Progressive-minded planners who embrace transit oriented development, equitable housing and communal living. Implementation of reduced parking requirements and higher density zoning ordinances.

6. SMART DESIGN

In sacrificing space for affordability, smart and practical design is essential in planning an efficiency unit. Innovative use of interior space, skylights, good fenestration, multifunctional furniture,and usable indoor/ outdoor communal areas must be implemented to achieve a great habitat.

Benefits Of The Small Efficiency Dwelling Unit model (SEDU's):

1. PROVIDES AFFORDABLE LIVING IN THE CITY

2. OFFERS A SAFE & MODERN IN-TOWN HABITAT

3. CREATES WALKABILITY & HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

4. REDUCES IN-TOWN TRAFFIC CONGESTION

5. CONNECTS COMMUNITY AND BUSINESSES

6 IMPROVES QUALITY OF LIFE FOR RESIDENTS

7. INCREASES PUBLIC TRANSIT RIDERSHIP

8. STABILIZES NEIGHBORHOODS

9. REDUCES POLLUTION AND COMMUTING

10.PROMOTES VIBRANCY IN CITY