Nano Studio – A 140 Square Foot Micro-Apartment for Students

Called Nano Studio, this micro-apartment has been developed by the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. The prototype apartment is attempt by the university to create more affordable housing for its students.

 

Nano Studio - University British Columbia - Vancouver - Studio Living Area - Humble Homes

Nano Studio consists of a 140 square foot unit (13 square meters) and contains all you need to get by as a student, however it could easily be used as a living solution for non-students too.

 

Nano Studio - University British Columbia - Vancouver - Bed and Desk - Humble Homes

The prototype apartment features a multifunctional living space, with one section partitioned off for the bathroom. The short entrance hallway is flanked by a closet for clothing and leads directly into the main living space.

 

Nano Studio - University British Columbia - Vancouver - Kitchen - Humble Homes

A small kitchenette is set along one wall, while a study area, that doubles as a sleeping space, is set along the opposite wall. To create the study/bed they’ve employed a murphy-style unit that’s commonly available, allowing them to avoid the more costly option of custom-built furniture.

Nano Studio - University British Columbia - Vancouver - Bathroom - Humble Homes

The kitchenette contains everything you could possibly need as a student – a cooktop, fridge, sink, and plenty of storage space. The bathroom is small but functional, with a shower, toilet and vanity. It’s a step up from most student accommodation which usually feature shared kitchens and bathrooms. As of yet, there’s been no mention of the price point.

Nano Studio - University British Columbia - Vancouver - Floor Plan - Humble Homes

For more studio spaces check out this 540 square foot New York loft redesign. Or, this tiny writers cottage in Norway by Jarmundvigsnaes Arkitekter. See all studios.

Via Contemporist
Photos: Nano

Niall Burke

Structural engineer by day, tiny house designer by night. Niall has a keen interest in small spaces, green design, and sustainability. He started developing Humble Homes while studying for his masters degree in engineering. He is the founder and managing editor of Humble Homes.

4 Comments
  1. This is a nice student or single person unit if the occupant can limit their “stuff”.

    The “desk / bed” concept has been around for a few years. The concept is one that tiny house fans could benefit from as they plane the needs for their own tiny abode.

    Except for the inclusion of a kitchenette, the shown concept reminds me of a nice affordable hotel chain I encountered while traveling in Denmark. The hotel chain is called “CabInn”.

  2. Solid concept. Perhaps some attention to under-the-bed storage and a tidy recycling area in the kitchenette? No offense but I wish more of what seem like workable and affordable designs are directed towards non-student populations: the homeless, low-income, etc.

  3. This Nano is planning on renting for around $675 per month. I think for student housing the design is poor. No storage, especially suitcases. No drawers for clothes. No shelves for books, binders, reference material. No place to eat. Micro would be better than burners. Cooking requires pots and pans but no storage. Fire hazard? No place for sports equipment. No hooks to hang coats or backpacks. No place for rain or winter gear and boots. No place for yoga, stretching exercise. Where do your friends sit? No place for toiletries or grooming stuff. For many foreign students sleeping with head against toilet room or feet facing door Is not culturally acceptable. Nor is seeing toilet while cooking. No place to secure passports and important papers. Where to store bike? Where can TV or Monitor be hooked up? Whole room set up for sitting at desk. Students study on floors, beds, chairs and at desk. Can you imagine having to living for 9 months in this room? This has not taken function of student living into consideration…only “looks good”.