In the next month, architectural practice Piercy Conner is to send Livingstone its proposal to develop the 25 m2 flats. It hopes that the mayor will find GLA funds to back the project, and will help it to secure money from central government.
The flats would be about half the size of a normal apartment and would cost between £60,000 and £80,000. The layouts, which are based on yacht and caravan design, would find space for a double bedroom, lounge, shower room and balcony.
Piercy Conner argues that the scheme would provide young professionals with a toehold on the property ladder and a home near their workplace. Director Stuart Piercy said: "A professional might only stay in a micro-flat for four years. It would give them a start.
This is a realistic attempt at making homes affordable."
A GLA spokesperson said: "Any increase in the supply of affordable housing is welcome. We've always said young professionals as well as public workers are essential to the well-being of London."
Although the construction cost would be less than £50,000 a unit, the low selling price means that profit margins would not be high – perhaps deterring private sector development partners. However, Piercy Conner is putting its own money behind the project to part-finance it. Piercy believes this act of good faith might attract a funding partner.
The practice has already started to identify potential sites, with one on Caledonian Road near King's Cross a prime target. This could house two small stacks of three flats.
The proposal is being drawn up with the help of engineer Oscar Faber and QS BPTW.
A similar scheme for a £6m tower block containing 144 "crash pads" was recently submitted to Manchester council.
