Footprint Investments, a company that has built several micro-housing developments in the Seattle area in addition to one 56-apartment building in Portland, is now working on a new development in the Hollywood district of Portland. Both Portland buildings are four stories tall and are built on lots that were previously occupied by a single-family home. The new development is coming this spring, and Prairie Electric is working on wiring the building.
What do the new micro-apartments look like?
The apartments generally start below 300 square feet and include a bathroom, living area, and a shared kitchen down the hallway. The units are furnished with a bed, table, chair, and bookshelf and there is a convenience center that includes a microwave and fridge/freezer. The floors are sound insulated, the grounds are professionally maintained, and there is an onsite laundry area. The new development boasts a walk score of 89 and a bike score of 93, making it extremely convenient for city-dwellers looking for convenient access to restaurants, shopping destinations, Zipcar rentals, and public transit.
Why are micro-apartments important?
With rent costs and home prices almost unattainable for many working families, the idea of low-cost housing is ever on the minds of residents in the Portland metro area. Living in one of the most expensive rental markets in the country, individuals and small families are attracted to the idea of micro apartments, because it means they won’t be paying exorbitant amounts in rent every month. These new micro-apartments are generally under $1,000 and include utilities. Because of their size, these dwelling units are usually not occupied by families, but instead, they are specifically targeted to serve young, single working professionals. Because of the outstanding price point, the units are usually occupied all the time and oftentimes, there are waiting lists.
In addition to providing more affordable housing, the micro-apartments are also giving renters the opportunity to move away from gas-guzzling vehicles. The housing units are conveniently located right in the center of everything a tenant needs – almost everything is within walking or biking distance. This virtually eliminates the need for a car. This not only saves money and space for parking, but it also reduces the negative environmental impact that cars have.
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