For Room11 Architects, 'Lighthouse', a newly built home in the Australian town of Hobart, is as much a political statement as it is a place for living. By request of the clients, the home was designed to be smaller than their previous residence, and the architects took that as an opportunity to exemplify what they view as the absurdity of suburban sprawl.
Suburban neighborhoods are common throughout the developed world, as the areas offer people more land at less expensive prices. This excess, however, can contribute to waste — Room11 Architects views it as an explicitly detrimental urban planning philosophy.
As such, Lighthouse is designed to offer all the amenities and comforts of a typical suburban home, but while occupying far less space.
Downsized Urban Homes
Room11 Architects' 'Lighthouse' is an Intentionally Small Space
Trend Themes
1. Downsizing Homes - Designing intentionally smaller homes as a statement against suburban sprawl and wasteful urban planning.
2. Minimalist Living - Creating spaces that provide the amenities and comforts of a typical suburban home while occupying less space.
3. Sustainable Urban Design - Promoting sustainable living through compact and efficient urban planning and architecture.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects can seize the opportunity to design environmentally-conscious, intentional smaller homes that challenge conventional suburban living.
2. Real Estate - Real estate developers can explore the market for downsized urban homes, providing compact and sustainable living options.
3. Urban Planning - Urban planners can incorporate strategies for downsized homes into their city planning, encouraging sustainable and efficient urban development.