Micro-Apartment (Minilägenhet)
What does it mean?
Micro-apartments (minilägenheter, also called mikrobostäder) are dwellings under 25 square meters that have become a growing trend in Sweden to address the housing shortage, especially among young people and single-person households. Since 2014, building permit relaxations have made it easier to build smaller homes — the minimum dwelling size requirement has been reduced from 35 to 21 square meters under Boverket's building regulations.
Micro-apartments are smartly designed with multifunctional furniture, loft beds, and integrated storage solutions. They exist as both rental and cooperative apartments and are built primarily in major cities where land prices are high. Critics argue that micro-apartments risk lowering living standards and are not suitable for long-term living. Proponents highlight that they give young people and singles the opportunity to live in central locations at reasonable cost. Rent per square meter is often higher than for larger apartments, but total rent is lower.
Key Points
- Dwellings under 25 sqm — minimum permitted size 21 sqm under BBR
- Growing trend since building permit relaxations in 2014
- Smart design with multifunctional furniture and integrated storage
- Rent per sqm often higher, but lower total rent
- Debated — improves access but may lower living standards
Practical Tip
Considering a micro-apartment? Always visit before deciding — 21 sqm can feel significantly smaller than expected. Check storage spaces, ceiling height, and natural light. Search for available micro-apartments on Bofrid.