Additional Coverage:
- A millennial couple moved into a 97-square-foot micro-apartment in Paris. It’s not their forever home, but they’ve made themselves comfortable. (businessinsider.com)
In an age where square footage seems to directly correlate with status, Thomas Loncq and Himika Masago are bucking the trend. In 2023, the couple moved into what many would consider unimaginably small quarters—a micro-apartment in Paris measuring just 97 square feet.
Yet, within this minuscule space, they’ve cultivated comfort, simplicity, and even a sense of spaciousness that defies the apartment’s physical constraints. Here’s how they turned a tiny room into a cozy home, challenging the norms of modern living in one of the world’s most romanticized cities.
The micro-apartment that Loncq and Masago call home was not originally designed for such a purpose. It was once a maid’s room, a small, utilitarian space with just enough room for a standing shower. But for this couple, it was a blank canvas, a challenge to redefine what makes a home.
To make the most of their limited space, Loncq and Masago got creative. They decided to build a raised floor, not just as an architectural feature but as a clever storage solution. This addition not only allowed them to keep their belongings out of sight, creating a clutter-free environment, but it also helped to delineate different ‘zones’ within the apartment, giving the illusion of separation where none physically exists.
Located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, their micro-apartment is situated in an area where real estate comes at a premium. With apartments in the vicinity costing an average of €9,637 per square meter, the couple’s decision to inhabit such a small space takes on a new light—it’s not just a lifestyle choice but a financially savvy move. Loncq, who had purchased the apartment for €90,000 and rented it out while living in Japan, saw potential in the space that many would overlook.
Adoption of a minimalist lifestyle was essential for the couple to comfortably live in such a confined area. They had to carefully curate their possessions, keeping only what was truly necessary or meaningful. This act of decluttering was not merely practical but philosophical, embracing a way of life that prioritizes substance over superficiality.
Their approach to interior design was heavily inspired by Japanese aesthetics, which favor simplicity, natural light, and efficient use of space. By building the raised floor, they not only multiplied their storage options but also ensured that their living area remained bathed in sunlight, making it feel larger and more welcoming. Moreover, with fewer belongings, maintaining the apartment became significantly easier, allowing them to spend their time on activities they love rather than chores.
Despite their initial contentment with their micro-living situation, Loncq and Masago plan to move out soon. Their experience has, however, permanently shaped their outlook on life and living spaces. They’ve found comfort and contentment in their minimalist lifestyle, proving that a home’s value isn’t measured by square footage, but by the quality of life it enables.
In a city as grand and historic as Paris, Thomas Loncq and Himika Masago’s micro-apartment stands as a testament to innovation, simplicity, and the beauty of small-scale living. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less truly can be more.