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Perth’s Micro Apartment Development: A New Living Trend
In an innovative shift in urban living, plans for a micro apartment development in Perth have received official approval, raising the question: would you consider living in an apartment the size of two car parks?
The new development, located on Stirling Street about a kilometre from Perth’s central business district, will feature seven floors comprising 88 apartments, with most measuring between 26 and 28 square metres. While the smaller apartments will cater to short-term stays, the larger ones are designed for longer rentals ranging from three months to three years.
The Rationale Behind Micro Apartments
According to Shaun Bond, a Professor of Finance at the University of Queensland, the concept of micro apartments isn’t new; similar arrangements have flourished in Europe and the United States over the last two decades. However, he expressed a cautious view on their long-term viability: “The concept seems appealing in theory, but the practical aspects of living in such small spaces often present significant challenges.”
The $22 million project by developer Marprop aims to accommodate FIFO workers, students, and young professionals. Each unit will include essential amenities like a bedroom, kitchen, and living area, and most will come with balconies. The building will also incorporate shared facilities such as dining and lounge areas, a co-working space, a gym, and a rooftop terrace.
Marprop’s approach seeks to offer a more affordable housing option with flexible lease arrangements, although rental prices are yet to be confirmed.
Regulatory Support and Market Considerations
The City of Vincent has backed the project, with Western Australian planning authorities approving it unanimously, demonstrating a shift toward flexibility in urban housing solutions. Yet, interest in micro apartments may be limited in other Australian cities, according to Tim Abbott from Ray White. He noted that Sydney has strict regulations requiring a minimum internal area of 35 square metres for studio apartments.
Despite rising rental costs, Abbott mentioned that there hasn’t been significant interest in micro apartments in Sydney. “As city populations grow, Australia might lean more towards this model, provided regulations permit,” he said.
Increasing Acceptance of Smaller Living Spaces
The trend toward smaller living arrangements is apparent, with other developments showcasing micro apartments. For instance, the not-for-profit housing organisation Nightingale completed its first project in Sydney’s Marrickville, featuring 54 micro apartments averaging between 22 and 31 square metres. These units were offered at rates significantly below market value, aimed at those meeting specific income thresholds.
Similarly, Pro-invest Group has plans for 2,000 “flex” apartments, which are anticipated to average 25 square metres and will include essential furnishings and amenities.
Potential Advantages and Disadvantages
The concept of micro apartments can be particularly suitable for singles, students, and FIFO workers, as discussed by Bond. However, he cautioned that such dwellings could quickly lose their allure if poorly designed, potentially leading to a sense of isolation. “It is crucial to create appealing living environments instead of merely producing compact units,” he added.
While micro apartments could contribute to the mixed housing landscape in Australia, they alone won’t address the broader affordable housing crisis. Bond advocates for a more diverse range of housing types, including traditional one-bedroom apartments and larger family homes, to cater to the varied needs of urban residents.
Conclusion
In summary, micro apartments represent an innovative approach to urban living, particularly for prominent Australian cities facing housing shortages. However, as they gain traction, developers and planners must consider design quality and demographic needs to ensure these spaces remain functional and appealing. With appropriate adjustments in regulations and design, micro apartments could play a valuable role in shaping Australia’s future housing landscape.
