What is a microflat? And can you touch both walls without moving?

The British Property Federation is seeking a clear definition of what constitutes a microflat, as the model becomes an increasingly important method of housing provision. Advocates of microliving –  any flat below minimum space guidelines of 37 sq m – say it is a necessary tool for solving the housing crisis. But policymakers remain sceptical of anything that could create new blocks of slums and bedsits. The BPF, which has come out neither for or against microflats, commissioned JLL to look at the models on offer so far, in order to arrive at some useful definitions.

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Microflats: one example

U+I has launched a new microflat product that it hopes to develop in its thousands to help the “squeezed middle” living in the centre of London. Dubbed Town Flats, the compact flats come as small as 19 sq m – half the 37 sq m required by planning guidance – but use efficient storage and design to feel larger.

The 19 sq m apartment is half the size of the 37 sq m recommended in London guidelines. Click on the images and move your mouse to pan around the room

The 24 sq m apartment could command rents of up to £1,100 per month. Click on the images and move your mouse to pan around the room

The bathroom in the 19 sq m apartment. Click on the images and move your mouse to pan around the room

A view of the 19 sq m apartment from the “bedroom”. Click on the images and move your mouse to pan around the room

“What role could microliving play in the housing crisis? The important thing at this stage is to define what we mean by that, to allow a sensible discussion,” says Nick Whitten, director in JLL’s research team. “We have a UK housing crisis defined by a systemic failure