nARCHITECTs’ adAPT NYC Micro Apartments Feature Convertible Furniture and Multi-Use Rooms

Last week, Mayor Bloomberg awarded <a href="http://www.narchitects.com" target="_blank">nARCHITECTS</a>, Monadnock Development LLC and Actors Fund HDC as the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/bloomberg-announces-winners-of-the-adapt-nyc-competition-to-develop-micro-unit-dwellings/8405926152_49d4256fed_c/?extend=1" target="_blank">winners of the adAPT NYC micro-apartment competition</a>. Their tiny dwelling proposal will be the basis for fifty-five <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/jonathan-roses-micro-apartment-complex-for-nyc-balances-tiny-living-spaces-with-ample-communal-areas/" target="_blank">mini units</a> at Kips Bay on 27th Street in Manhattan. The one and two person households will not only be affordable, but give residents the feeling of expansive space with higher ceilings, ample windows, and terrace access.

Mayor Bloomberg checks out the tiny apartment.

The apartments feature overhead lofts for storage.

The floorplans show how the apartments can be used during the day and at night.

narchitects' floorplans show an aerial view of the apartments.

Mayor Bloomberg announcing the winner of adAPT NYC.

Mayor Bloomberg announces the winner.

An aerial view of the second apartment type.

“New York’s ability to adapt with changing times is what made us the world’s greatest city – and it’s going to be what keeps us strong in the 21st Century,” said <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/mayor-bloomberg-cuts-ribbon-at-newly-rejuvenated-rockaway-park-in-queens/" target="_blank">Mayor Bloomberg</a>.

Micro NY will test out the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/bfcpockets-entry-for-adapt-nyc-combines-loft-living-with-multiple-roof-terraces/" target="_blank">adAPT NYC pilot program</a>, with a series of one and two person apartments for affordable city living.

Made from modular pieces, the complex can be constructed easily and in less time that building from scratch- as well as be replicated in other areas should Micro NY become successful. Each unit can be stacked on each other, creating different heights and volumes for future projects.

Each of the 55 units will play on the use of space, light and air to maximize comfort, while minimizing space. An average size of 250 to 370 square feet.

Built in a stair-step design, the first roof will house a public garden, complete with trees, and sun deck. Residents can also hang at the higher attic garden, which can be planted with edible plants.

The units will each have nine to ten foot ceilings coupled with oversized windows, flooding each apartment with natural light, while giving an open and airy feeling throughout each home. Sliding glass doors will open up to small balconies, bringing in fresh air. Storage lofts help to keep apartments clutter free, as well as foldable tables, convertible beds and other space-saving features.

As Micro NY moves forward, an affordable Manhattan for middle to low income individuals will soon be closer to reality.