The residential market has undergone profound changes in the last decade, driven by transformations in the way we work, live, and relate to the space we inhabit. Whereas before the ideal home was almost always large and well-defined, today the demand for compact and flexible homes has gained relevance, becoming a real estate trend that is here to stay.

There are several reasons behind this phenomenon: the increasing value of location, urban mobility, the rise of smaller families, the need to make every square meter count, and the desire for more efficient and sustainable homes.

What are compact homes and why are they so interesting?

Compact homes are designs that, regardless of type, prioritize versatility of space and maximization of functionality. It is not just a matter of reducing square footage, but of designing environments that adapt to different times of the day and various stages of life.

In a contemporary one- or two-bedroom apartment, the living room can be transformed into an office, the kitchen can open onto the social area, and a balcony can serve as an extension of the living space. This concept responds to the growing need for flexibility, especially in a world where teleworking, professional mobility, and shared spaces have become part of everyday life.

At the same time, there is a practical and economic dimension that fuels this trend: compact homes are more affordable in terms of initial investment, easier to maintain, and more energy efficient.

Quality over quantity

For a long time, one of the great misconceptions in the market was to associate quality housing with large dimensions. Today, more and more buyers value construction details, intelligent design, and energy efficiency over simple total area.
The new generations, especially young professionals and couples starting out in life, prefer well-located, modern properties with well-designed spaces to larger but outdated and poorly used houses. This has driven developments with compact layouts that do not compromise on comfort, natural light, and quality finishes.

The role of location

If there is one thing that compact homes allow, it is living in central or emerging areas that would otherwise be unaffordable in terms of price per square foot.
Real estate projects in neighborhoods such as Penha de França or Alcântara, for example, offer modern units with balanced areas, but with all the potential for appreciation due to their proximity to the main urban hubs, shops, and transportation.
For example, developments such as Penha Living Closer and Penha Living Bolder, both promoted by Addsolid, combine several of these characteristics. Located in Penha de França, they include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with functional solutions, designed for those looking for contemporary and versatile housing, combining design, efficiency, and a strategic location.

Homes that keep pace with your lifestyle

The main advantage of a compact and flexible home is that it adapts. It can start out as a young professional's first apartment, become a rental investment, or be a second home option. Today, the versatility of space is a way of responding to different needs without compromising quality of life.

More with less, and better

The trend towards compact and flexible homes is much more than a response to real estate pressure. It is a reflection of cultural, technological, and economic changes that are reshaping the way we live.

In a market where location, sustainability, and comfort are as important as size, these projects are solid investment opportunities and homes with a future.

Would you like to find out more about compact and efficient developments? Talk to us and discover new ways of living intelligently and with quality.