

tengbom architects design a smart student flat

photo by bertil hertzberg



affordable housing for students on a budget is often hard to come by. tengbom architects have proposed a 10 sqm student unit in response–accessible, environmentally friendly, and smart in its design and material choices. in developing the compact space, the swedish firm worked with members of its target group, university of lund students, to conceive a sleeping-loft, kitchen, bathroom and small garden with a patio within 10 sqm, reducing the current requirements of 25 sqm by 60% through legal consent, but is still comfortable for its inhabitants.

collaborating with martinsons and real estate company AF bostäder, the ‘smart student unit’ is constructed from cross laminated locally sourced wood, and features an efficient layout within the tight quarters, reducing the typical average rent by 50%, as well as the ecological impact and carbon footprints of building it.



the general living space features a kitchen, fold down table and built in shelving and storage

photo by bertil hertzberg

‘by exhibiting this well planned and sustainable student unit we want to challenge the conventional views and show new ways of thinking. what is ‘good’ living? what materials can we use? to meet the future in a sustainable way we must be innovative in all aspects and have the courage to break new ground,’ says linda camara at tengbom architects.

the ‘smart student unit’ is on show at virserum art museum until december 8th, 2013, and in 2014, 22 of the flats will be realized for students to rent.



the kitchen is located at the entrance of the unit

photo by bertil hertzberg



views of the lofted living space

photo by bertil hertzberg



bird’s-eye view into the main living area

photo by bertil hertzberg



photo by bertil hertzberg



the unit measures a mere 10 sqm

photo by bertil hertzberg