Karen Fermin's excitement is palpable as she enters her new studio apartment. The sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows illuminates the concrete walls and exposed pipes, creating a simple yet inviting space. The muted green and ochre cupboards complement the industrial aesthetic.
Despite its compact size of 25 square meters, the apartment offers a kitchenette, bathroom, and space for a bed and small table and chairs. To compensate for the limited living area, the development features communal kitchens, relaxation areas, and an outdoor terrace.
The unique build-to-rent model, a partnership between Nightingale and Fresh Hope Communities, has attracted attention from governments seeking solutions to the housing shortage. A ballot determined the first residents of the 54 mini apartments.
The affordable rent, calculated at 80% of the market rate, is a significant attraction. Applicants must meet income criteria, with priority given to certain groups, including women over 55, First Nations people, and essential workers. Fermin anticipates saving $300 per week, providing financial stability for the first time in years.
However, critics argue that the rent remains unaffordable for those in dire need. The Older Women's Network calls for more government-funded public housing based on income percentages. Nightingale acknowledges the need for more creative solutions to Sydney's housing crisis.