Create your own micro-apartment right in our own home town

Micro-apartments are finally coming into their own.

Of course, the idea is not just to move into a tiny space–we’ve all done that at one time or another.  Futon sleeping in a studio apartment–been there! Along with the milk-bottle-case bookshelves and the wine-bottle candle holders.  But we’re grown-ups now and we want some style.  Small style.

But let’s just say that you want to live in a very expensive part of town (this is Vancouver–every part is expensive). Or you spend a lot of time out and about and you just can’t see why you need to pay top dollar for space that sits empty for most of the day. Then get the smallest apartment in the nicest neighbourhood and create your very own micro-apartment.

The idea is to get the very most out of the least amount of space.  And according to Life Edited, it’s doable.

In their guide to 8 tips for making your own micro apartment,tip 1 is

Pick a good address. We think small spaces work best when you use your city or town as your living room.

This is a no-brainer.  But it doesn’t necessarily mean moving to the pricier areas like Kitsilano, Kerrisdale, Gastown or Yaletown. Cambie Street has lots of great shops and restaurants.   And Commercial Drive has always been a pretty happening place. A few years ago, Main Street was not a particularly great area — but now it’s very hot.

Pick a good size:

about 250-400 sq ft for singles; 300-600 for couples; 500 + for families

And shape:

 In general, square and rectangular spaces are ideal.

Then furnish it — thoughtfully.  As in tip 4:

Get a Murphy Bed. It’s the single easiest way of creating space without sacrificing function. A queen size bed is about 35 sq ft.–i.e. 10% of a 350 sq ft space; a 10% used exclusively while unconscious.

They advise that while opting for a really gorgeous unit like the Swing Bed is a great solution.

It’s also 10 grand.  American dollars. But relax, they also point out that you can build your own for around $275.

Lots of great ideas at the site.

And remember the folks who always encouraged us to live in small spaces, IKEA

Inspired to create your own little space yet?  Remember — you can live large in a small space. Right in your own home town.