IN-PERSON Barcelona Livable Cities. Section A

Abstract

This paper critically examines the global surge in micro living developments as a response to housing affordability and explores why consumer uptake has often failed to meet industry expectations. It questions whether flawed assumptions about market demand have led to the proliferation of thousands of units that were never truly wanted, and whether the research underpinning these developments adequately accounted for the psychological and emotional impacts of living in constrained environments that were poorly designed. Through a design and human-ecological lens, the paper considers whether broader socio-cultural systems—such as opportunities for creating more enduring and empathetic connections with neighbours, the greater community, and gaining access to meaningful public and semi-private spaces—have been overlooked in favour of minimal square footage and economic efficiency. It explores how a narrow focus on density and unit count optimization may have ignored fundamental human needs related to wellbeing, happiness, trust, and a need for diverse types of interactions. Drawing on recent research and case studies, the paper proposes alternative strategies that center around the day-to-day lived experience and social ecology as critical components of design for small-space living. Ultimately, it argues that micro living can succeed—not by shrinking space alone—but by expanding the quality and richness of integrated products, services, experiences, and environments.