Microvillage: assessing the viability of increasing supply of affordable, sustainable and socially integrated small homes

This paper describes a project exploring the viability in Australia of increasing the supply of small, affordable housing to those with limited income and wealth and a desire to live in homes that integrate with the community in meaningful ways and minimise consumption of building materials, land and energy. The research context is the increasing marketing and media coverage of tiny homes, which has prompted questions about whether such houses can offer an alternative affordable housing model. The project focused on four key issues: community integration, building and design, regulatory planning barriers, and financing and affordability. A combination of interviews, focus groups, and system thinking workshops was used to collect the views of stakeholders across the housing sector, including potential residents. Results indicate that a radical shift is needed from the planning authorities, housing supply and finance sector to enable the provision of affordable and sustainable compact homes that are adaptable to all stages of life.