With increasing rents and a general shortage of affordable apartments, developers in New York City are putting the 'micro-apartment' on the market. Such apartments, which range from 350 to 400 square feet, are suited for busy professionals and techie singles. Technology plays a role in reducing the need for space in that music, reading and entertainment are stored in a device rather than on shelves.
These 'anti-McMansions' or 'aPodments" can be well-designed. Look at the video below for the clever use of cabinetry for storage and other space-saving uses.
http://qz.com/46101/new-york-city-unveils-its-vision-for-micro-apartments-under-400-square-feet/
With rising rents and increasing demand for affordable space in and around downtown will micro-apartments be popping up in Austin?