I've been surprised by how much I like living in a small space, but there are definite downsides, too.
Naydeline Mejia
When I moved into my 97-square-foot micro-apartment in the fall of 2025, it was supposed to be temporary.Unaccustomed to minimalist living, I gave myself a deadline of three months to find a larger place better suited to my lifestyle as a 20-something expat. However, after a few months, I adapted to the pseudo-communal living style of Paris's charming "chambre de bonne" apartments.Sure, I share a toilet with my neighbors, and I often have to awkwardly greet them while heading to the shower — but I get to live in central Paris for a staggeringly affordable rent.So, three months became six, and I kept pushing my deadline until I decided that I actually don't mind my kitchen being two feet away from my bed.After nine months of living in a micro-apartment, I can honestly say it's become one of my favorite places I have ever called home. At the same time, there are certain conveniences of larger living that I've had to forgo.These are the biggest pros and cons of living in a Parisian micro-apartment.I've been more intentional about shopping
When I'm about to buy something new, I ask myself if I really need it.
