An experiment in nano-living has started in Vancouver's Downtown East Side with the renting of 30 new “micro-lofts” in the 100-year-old Burns Block.
The units rent for an average of $850 per month but, at just 270 square feet in size, could cause claustrophobia.
Billed as “the smallest self-contained furnished rental apartments in Canada,” the 30 furnished apartments at 8 West Hastings Street are the result of a joint partnership between Reliance Properties and ITC Construction Group, which showcased the 30 new apartments this morning at a media launch.
The $5.5 million project was viewed by developers as a way to save a heritage building and provide affordable housing. The average monthly rent of $850 per month may not seem so affordable, given their size. But Reliance president Jon Stovell points out, the rent includes cable and Internet, a flat screen TV and a bed.
The tiny apartments are designed to maximize space with a bed that folds up into the wall during the day, and a bathroom that contains toilet, sink and shower in a single enclosure. The apartments are rented on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Burns Block redevelopment project received a number of incentives from the City of Vancouver including a $50,000 grant, density bonuses and property-tax reductions.
Nelson Bennett
@nbennett_biv