I write a lot about the future of work and a recent article caught my eye regarding the future of living.
 
Much has been said about co-working spaces and the versatility and cost savings it promotes for small (or large) businesses.  With the increased ability for most of us to work anywhere anytime, limited workplaces even with modern open plan designs are just not necessary.  I predict large “office blocks” will need to reinvent into activity based, collaborative workspaces, with indoor parks, cafes and lounging spaces rather than cubicle and office filled white collar sweat shops.  Many organisations are already going down this path.  I visited the refurbished offices of a local council late last year and their space was conducive to intuitive working and collaboration.
 
The article that caught my eye was about co-habitation spaces.  Much like a dorm for grown-ups!  Whilst I don’t see families living in this kind of space in the near future, I think it would be a great affordable option for graduates and singles.

 

 
I think the part that appeals to me most about this story is the quote “If you live in a new apartment building in Chicago, you might be more likely to spend a typical night downstairs at a mixology or bike repair class–or sitting with neighbours by a fire pit, watching your dogs run around the building’s dog park–than in your apartment watching Netflix.…..”
 
Following her graduation from university, my daughter moved from Melbourne to Sydney to advance her career and had very little choice around affordable rent.  Based on this article she could easily have afforded to live in one of these co-habitation spaces giving her the privacy of her own space and bathroom with the company of the shared spaces.
 
As property ownership becomes tougher and tougher for younger generations, new models become appealing.  “People are more transient, they have a lot of debt, people are moving to cities and want to own less . . . there’s a shift in values toward experience over ownership.”  Can you imagine a membership or subscription model for this type of living?  I can.
 
Then there is the growing trend of micro apartment living and the tiny house movement.  Not sure if this is a function of my age and needs, but I find these small, minimalist options incredibly appealing. I think it’s always based on immediate family needs and over time our needs expand and contract.  And, as cities become over populated and space becomes of the essence, downsizing, co-habitation and versatile spaces like this Hong Kong apartment will become the norm.

 
I believe future living spaces, like future work spaces, need to leverage the best of technology, design and sociability.  In doing so, we can create environments that are affordable, accessible and aesthetic.