The housing dilemma in the Canary Islands has underscored the necessity to consider alternative solutions due to the escalating challenges in securing accommodation. Rising costs have developed a scenario wherein traditional options are no longer feasible for a substantial segment of the populace.
In this scenario, prefabricated modular residences are beginning to gain traction as a viable choice that utilises private land and presents an innovative solution to the issues plaguing the real estate sector. The scarcity of available housing means that many individuals have to resort to this type of dwelling, exacerbating the growing social inequality.
DIARIO DE AVISOS has explored one of these residences, situated on a property in Fasnia, reflecting a developing trend and the necessity to adapt to a reality characterised by the housing access crisis within the Archipelago.
Upon arrival at the property, the initial impression is one of tranquillity in the surroundings. The modular house, covering no more than 30 square metres, is nestled amidst a garden, encircled by fruit trees that create a pastoral ambience. The simple yet functional façade blends seamlessly with its environment. A mobile hammock, thoughtfully placed beneath the shade of a tree, invites relaxation in the open air, emphasising the peace offered by this retreat.
Stepping inside the house, the astute utilisation of space immediately draws attention. The ambiance is inviting, boasting a minimalist yet warm aesthetic that makes its compact size feel more expansive to any onlooker.
The kitchen is the first area encountered within the modular home. Although petite, it is outfitted with all necessary amenities. The appliances have been meticulously selected for both their efficiency and size, enabling the preparation of complete meals without any difficulty. The open design, which merges the kitchen with a modest dining area, mitigates feelings of confinement, achieving a harmonious balance between functionality and comfort.
A GROWING DIVIDE
The bedroom, just a few paces away, contains a double bed that occupies most of the area. Two bedside tables flanking it provide essentials for nocturnal comfort. Although compact, the bedroom radiates a sense of calmness and routine, significantly enhanced by the natural light filtering through a window that overlooks the garden, seamlessly integrating the outdoor environment with the interior.
The en-suite bathroom, accessed only through a sliding door, is compact but well-equipped: featuring a toilet, shower, and sink, all designed to occupy minimal space without compromising functionality. Space optimisation is paramount. The light-toned décor and the efficient use of every nook create a comfortable oasis.
The cost for this accommodation is 48 euros per night, a price that, although competitive compared to the steep rates in the traditional real estate market, raises concerns regarding the future of housing access in the Canary Islands.
Nestled within the garden of a private estate, this modular residence epitomises a microcosm of a broader issue: the growing challenge of finding affordable accommodation, particularly for those lacking substantial financial resources.
Such alternatives, which diverge from the traditional notion of housing, are becoming increasingly popular in the southern part of the island and underscore the widening gap within the Canary Island’s real estate landscape. While some individuals resort to makeshift solutions, such as residing in caravans or vehicles, others with more financial means are beginning to capitalise on their land by installing modular homes for economic gain.
In this crisis-laden context, creativity emerges as a vital tool, yet it simultaneously exposes the deteriorating inequalities that are becoming more pronounced with each innovative proposal in the Archipelago.