Abstract

Purpose: Consistent with the global trend, both the total number and the population ratio of single-person households has surged in the past few decades, especially among those aged 20-39. How to meet this group’s housing and community-life demand has become a significant social concern. Research methodology: This paper begins by reviewing the living conditions and arrangement of single-person households worldwide, highlighting the global growing prevalence of living alone. It is observed that young single-person households in China face several housing challenges, including the shortage of suitable and quality small housing units, mismatches in needs and demand, and constraints from institutional operations. This paper also examines the lifestyle characteristics and unique housing needs of young single-person households, emphasizing that the freedom and independence associated with living alone come with challenges such as loneliness, social difficulties, and a lack of security. Results: It is observed that strong dependency, inadequate life skills, and pronounced individualism are significant realities for young people living alone today. To provide inspirations on solutions to address these challenges, this paper uses the Lingyu 3.0 single-occupancy apartment model as an example to illustrate how innovative design can meet the needs of young single-person households, proposing strategies for creating suitable living environments. These strategies include concept reshaping, methodological innovation, space design, and technological empowerment. Conclusions: It is therefore crucial to foster a conducive living environment for young single-person households not only enhances individual quality of life but also supports the mental health and social integration of this demographic, contributing to social stability and sustainable development. The paper concludes by stressing the importance for multi-stakeholders to form sustainable collaboration in producing humane, personalized, and diverse housing and community solutions for the new generation single-person households.

Keywords : single-person household; living alone; living needs; psychological needs; housing and community design