Welcome back to Curbed Comparisons, a dive into rental options in Philly neighborhoods. As part of Micro Week we took a special look at small living spaces across the city. Below are five different takes on what living small can be, all at different price points. Is one person's teensy box another person’s townhouse? Let's find out!
Germantown (1 bed, 1 bath)—For $799/month, this tiny house shares a tucked-away lot with about 20 private garages and parking spaces, accessible through a narrow alley. It’s definitely small, but it has an impressive living room, complete with a fireplace. The kitchen is not state-of-the-art, but there is plenty of counter space. There is a washer and dryer, but no pets allowed.
Rittenhouse Square (studio, 1 bath)—The square-footage is missing on this listing, but based on the listing photos this studio doesn't look too shabby at all (though with furniture moved in it will be undoubtedly smaller). The $1,350 monthly fee rents you an updated kitchen (even with a dishwasher), a marble fireplace, as well as a small rear deck. It even manages to have in-unit laundry.
East Poplar (studio, 1 bath)—Even at 477 square feet, this studio near Northern Liberties looks pretty spacious, thanks to the tall ceilings and big windows. Plus, there's a partial wall and step-up that gives the bedroom a bit more privacy than the average studio. It even manages to squeeze laundry into the unit. You'll have to wait, though: The unit isn't available until November.
Center City (1 bed, 1 bath)—Way up the rent scale to $1,895/month is this classic 544-square-foot Philly rowhouse. It’s so small that it doesn’t even bother with a bedroom door. But as always, it’s a charmer, with hardwood floors, wooden kitchen countertops, and a rear patio.
University City (studio, 1 bath)—The newest, most high-end unit this week is also the second priciest. But for $1,760/month, you can live into a tiny 303-square-foot studio in the Evo building right on the Schuylkill. There are amenities in the pet-friendly building, too: A roof deck and pool, a lounge, gym.