The subject of numerous documentaries and a growing trend over the past several years, tiny houses continue to pop up around the country as people choose to downsize their lives. These homes often measure less than 300 square feet, but they boast innovative designs that maximize the available space and enable their owners to lead a simpler existence.
Nowadays, microunits are also an increasingly popular option for millennials looking for lower-cost housing options near amenities such as transportation, restaurants and shopping. The latest planned development here in Austin was announced last month by locally-based real estate firm Transwestern Development Co., which announced its plans to develop an apartment complex with 139 micro-units at 1648 E. Sixth Street. The complex, called Indie Apartments, will feature 350-square-foot studio apartments and 520-square-foot units with two bedrooms.
Some of the space-maximizing features in the apartments include Murphy beds and other flexible furniture such as convertible tables, built-in storage, and hideaway kitchen modules. The 55,815 complex will be situated on less than half an acre and will replace the former Ross Transmission garage. It will also include a 2,500-square-foot restaurant space, a courtyard with fire pits and outdoor televisions, and below-grade parking.
Transwestern plans to break ground on the project this month and complete it by August 2017. Rental rates have not yet been disclosed.
Related Articles
April 2016 Real Estate Market Statistics
Navigating Austin’s Tough Real Estate Market
Redfin: Affordable & Balanced Austin Neighborhoods