Transformation of Living Spaces: From Spaciousness to Compact Design

This study examines how architectural movements from large communal living to compact, personal designs have been impacted by urbanization, resource scarcity, and shifting lifestyles. Stakeholder interviews, case studies, spatial analysis, and a thorough literature review are some of the mixed-methods techniques used in this study to evaluate the socio-environmental trade-offs of compact living. Compact homes are linked to resource-intensive construction (40–50% CO₂ emissions from traditional materials) and social isolation (60 percent of residents report confinement), despite optimizing spatial efficiency (15–25% adaptability via modular designs) and reducing per capita energy consumption by 20–30%. Sustainable alternatives such as multifunctional rooms (30% increase in usability), biophilic design (20% improvement in mental health), and smart HVAC systems (10–15% energy savings) mitigate these issues. In order to balance general well-being with urban efficiency, the study advocates for climate-responsive, flexible structures that incorporate shared amenities, eco-materials, and community-focused regulations. These findings urge lawmakers and architects to prioritize designs that strike a balance between environmental responsibility, technological innovation, and social inclusion in order to create sustainable urban futures.