Singles are the largest and fastest-growing group in the U.S. and many other countries. They have unique needs and lifestyle patterns that are unlike any other time in the past.
The need for small houses for singles will continue to grow at the same rapid pace as their population numbers have. To my knowledge, home builders have done nothing to accommodate this group in the detached housing market, commonly known as single-family detached homes.
There are plenty of condominium projects that attempt to entice singles, but they are usually designed to fit any type of buyer. Since there are no homes specifically for them, singles are forced to buy houses that are much larger than they need and in neighborhoods designed for families.
I’d like to see small houses and master-planned communities designed exclusively for singles. This would mean that for the first time, a community and the houses within it would be designed to meet the needs and lifestyle of singles.
I would expect that the infrastructure in a singles community would not have any amenities or services for families or children. Instead, the focus would be solely on single adults. This would eliminate the need for schools, daycare centers, and kiddy play equipment in parks.
In a singles master-planned community, the parks would have tennis and volleyball courts, pools, and distinctive picnic areas for individuals, couples, and groups. The community facilities would likely be a combination of a lounge, bookstore, coffeehouse, gym, cafe, and pub. A nightclub-like ballroom for dances and parties would be a must. I would also predict the need for classroom space for personal development workshops and seminars.
Here are the components that need to be included in small houses for singles. Some of these features are to accommodate mobility, as singles tend to move more often than families.
- 400-1,000 square feet.
- Built-in clothing drawers or cabinets, computer desk, television platform, media storage, and dining table or bar.
- Raise bed area (split-level design) or loft in studio house.
- Large walk-in closet.
- Spacious bathroom with a two-person shower. 🙂
- Kitchen with “singles” size (as opposed to family size) appliances.
- Laundry room with folding counter, hanger rod, and hideaway ironing board.
- Home security system. (Singles tend to be away a lot on business and pleasure trips.)
- Attached garage with direct entry into the house. (Added security for singles who live alone.)
- Small low-maintenance yard (no grass) with an in-ground hot tub.
That’s how I see it. Who will be the first nonconforming and courageous homebuilder who seizes this opportunity?
For information on small houses, visit Guru Habits’ tiny living article category.