please don't go

The cinemas are showing The Single Man, a film by first time director Tom Ford across the UK. A troubled story of a person's struggle, loss and meaning of life. Being a fan of Mad Men, I was thrilled to know that he used the same production crew for his debut film. As you would expect from Mr Ford, it isn't complete unless there is an emphasis on style and architecture in the 1960's. So, I thought of putting an Alcoholic Architect spin to it.

There is a rise in number for single occupancy housing market around the world. This is even more prevalent in England. The numbers in new built homes here for 1/2 bedroom houses have more than doubled since 2000. A lot of factors contribute to this growing demand as young adults are delaying forming relationships, the increase influx of immigration from overseas and the ever growing numbers of couples separating. In the US, these developments are known as singles residences.

One such development is the Rob Clark in LA. Before being a boutique-style luxury condominium, this building was formerly the run-down Beverly Plaza. Now the super luxurious, finest amenities and luxe style of 100-unit complex, featuring studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom, ranging in size from 500 sq ft - 1,200 sq ft is the talk of the town. Standard features such as granite fireplaces, outdoor lounge lobby, underground car park, Caesar Stone counters, your chosen hardwood floors, finely appointed pool and gardens, close to LA's trendiest restaurants, shops and nightclubs, lushly landscaped exteriors and a spectacular view of L.A.’s glorious hills; the Rob Clark is the daddy of it all.

I've also heard that the legendary Amy Sacco would be a 'lifestyle director' for another similar development in Manhattan called The District. Tenants are vetted extensively before they're able to move in. Once in, it's like summer camp and summer break combined with a mix of custom décor by Andres Escobar. Smart technology controls the lighting, climate and security with the touch of a button. Residents/tenants will like the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and bedroom, private balconies/terraces and open-air hot tubs. If that's not enough, there are personal services, including twenty-four hour concierge access, individual storage rooms for each room, cold storage, parking, a private screening room, billiards area, a library including a fireplace, a pool (with an indoor lap pool!) and spa area, and a fitness centre and 16-jet spa. On the roof, the District's view is complemented by a 12,000 sq ft terrace with pools, cabanas and chaise lounges, to take in the panoramic view of the city. Each property is uniquely designed with the personal touch of designer Alta/Rossetto, everything thing is custom-made and you're able to choose the style you want, whether it be light and airy, traditional, or contemporary. Phew!!

Meanwhile in West Chelsea, Ohm offers similar solutions. Unlike the rest, Ohm is only for rental. For some reason, I feel that this reminds me of being back in university residence halls. Oh well, to each his own. Going back to the UK, I can't see this taking off in a big scale but it definitely does have its charm. If I was in my twenties & thirties, I would seriously consider moving in. Party, drinks, single women, gym and high-spec fittings - why the hell not! Work hard, play hard right. Where do I sign? Saying that, the demand for family homes still remains strong. There is still hope for a happy family life, I guess. For now at least.