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I grew up in 2,000 to 2,500 sq. ft. homes. But, then again, I also grew up with 7 other family members.
I have now lived in sub-1,000 sq. ft. apartments for over 10 years. I've been in my current 715 sq. ft. apartment for over 5 years. I live with one other person. It's what I'm used to. It has defined my adult living experience.
Now do the math.
Even at 2,500 square feet, 8 people means around 312 square feet per capita. In my current place, I have 358 square feet per capita. Though I'm sure some of my houses growing up were as small as 2,000, meaning only 250 to 300 square feet, depending on whether some of my siblings were still around.
That said, I don't find living in 715 square feet "small." Not overall. However, I do find the kitchen (galley) and bathroom a bit small. That's the only exception. Otherwise, I don't really think about it much.
Would I like more space? Sure, of course. But the fact is, we can't really afford it. Not in this city. Even if we bought a place, it would probably barely reach 1,000 square feet. The only way around that would be to move to the 905 belt. That may just happen. Also, a private yard would be nice.
What would I be happy with? I'd feel like a king in 2,000 square feet. It would even have enough room for a kid or two if that ever happens.
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Knowing that death is certain and that the time of death is uncertain, what's the most important thing?
—Bhikkhuni Pema Chödrön
Humankind cannot bear very much reality.
—From "Burnt Norton," Four Quartets (1936), T. S. Eliot
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