Project Type: Urban Re-UtilizationLocation: Portland, Oregon
Over the last century, the average American home size has ballooned from 900 to over 2400 sq ft. Only in the last couple of years have home sizes started to decrease. This change in trend is likely due, in part, to the recent economic downturn. Irrespective of economics, it is important to investigate options to live more densely and within a smaller dwelling. Its not a stretch to assume that in most places smaller spaces is associated with personal financial failure but in places such as Tokyo and Amsterdam this notion does not necessarily hold true. Some of the highest rent districts in these cities contain some of the smallest dwellings. This does not just mean building smaller homes in the future, but looking for creative opportunities to incorporate the re-use of our already-built environment contained within an existing infrastructure. This is true sustainability.
