The Rise of the Micro-Dwelling

“It’s our interdependence that makes our independence possible; the rise of living alone is not a sign of our disconnection, but a sign we invest in each other.” 

- Eric Klinenberg, American sociologist

Individuals have never been more self-resourceful and self-reliant than they are today, given factors such as urbanization, the communication revolution, women in the workforce, and longer life expectancy. This shift towards individualization has not only given rise to the sharing economy, but has created a high demand for individual dwellings in urban cities. As Toronto’s current housing stock is limited to rooming houses, community housing, and luxury condominiums at a high market value, it must rethink housing that is more affordable, secure, and fulfilling for individuals as it continues to be an internationally productive and growing city. With the reconceptualization of the micro-unit, through addressing the contemporary stigmas related to it, we can prevent it from becoming a provisional housing type with little social value, and position it as an opportunity to dismantle the current cliche of domesticity and reclaim the generic ethos of contemporary life.