#Japan #Renovation #Housing #Shibuya #MEMOCO

Understanding Living Space Requirements of Homeowners

In an extensive study conducted by MEMOCO, a company based in Shibuya, Tokyo, in collaboration with Zero Renovation, a survey assessed the living space preferences of 1027 homeowners. This survey aimed to uncover practical insights regarding the lifestyles and living space needs of different demographics. The data collected provides a revealing snapshot of how living space affects homeowners’ satisfaction and future desires.

Survey Overview

The survey spanned from February 1 to April 7, 2025, utilizing an internet-based crowdsourcing method to gather diverse responses from homeowners. With 1027 participants, including 413 men and 614 women, a range of insights emerged regarding both current living conditions and ideal residential space.

Respondents Demographics

• - Age Distribution:

- 20s: 8%
- 30s: 30%
- 40s: 32%
- 50s: 21%
- 60+: 9%

• - Family Size:

- 1 Member: 5%
- 2 Members: 21%
- 3 Members: 33%
- 4 Members: 29%
- 5 Members: 9%
- 6 or more: 3%

• - Presence of Children:

- No Children: 35%
- 1 Child: 28%
- 2 Children: 29%
- 3 Children: 7%
- 4 Children: 0.9%
- 5+ Children: 0.1%

• - Living with Parents:

- Living Together: 18%
- Not Living Together: 82%

Ideal vs Current Living Space

Respondents shared their current living area in square meters as well as their ideal conditions. The findings indicate varied preferences based on household size:

• - Current Area:

- Under 25 sqm: 3%
- 25 to 30 sqm: 6%
- 30 to 40 sqm: 10%
- 40 to 60 sqm: 19%
- 60 to 80 sqm: 28% (highest)
- 80 to 100 sqm: 15%
- Over 100 sqm: 19%

The majority, approximately 28%, resided in spaces of 60 to 80 square meters, followed closely by the over 100 sqm and 40 to 60 sqm living spaces.

What Do Homeowners Need Based on Household Size?

The survey further explored how the required living space varies by the number of residents:

• - Single Occupants: The trend indicates a preference for spaces between 30 and 40 sqm, with about 31% favoring sizes between 40 and 60 sqm.

• - Two-Person Households: Approximately 43% prefer spaces of 60 to 80 sqm, suggesting this is optimal for couples seeking adequate living space.

• - Three-Person Households: Respondents indicated a preference for homes in the range of 60 to 80 sqm, often needing extra space as families grow.

• - Four-Person Households: About 34% found satisfaction in 60 to 80 sqm, while 28% of homes measured 80 to 100 sqm.

• - Families of Five or More: The necessity for more room intensifies, as 44% opted for 60 to 80 sqm, reflecting growing space demands.

Wishes for More or Less Space

When asked about their ideal home size compared to their current abode:

• - No Change Desired: 45% of participants preferred their current size, while 43% expressed a desire for larger spaces.
• - Options for Less Space: Around 12% declared a need for smaller homes.

By analyzing responses, it's evident that favorable living environments are directly correlated with family dynamics, and substantial shifts often occur when children reach independence or couples consider aging parents moving in.

Conclusion

This survey by MEMOCO reveals significant insights into the minimum required living space for comfortable family life. For singles, a minimum of 25 sqm is appropriate, while two-person households should aim for at least 60 sqm. As families grow or downsize, the average space requirement fluctuates based on the number of inhabitants and their life situations. The survey indicates a crucial understanding of how living spaces impact lifestyle perceptions and future housing aspirations. Therefore, strategies such as renovation might be beneficial to accommodate changing needs and enhance living conditions as homeowners strive for both space and comfort.