Ken explained that as construction and living costs continue to rise, so too does the popularity of modular housing in the industry. The resulting trend is the repositioning of living room space from inside to outside. Apartments have a smaller focus on living rooms, tenants have lower expectations of living spaces, and public space is more meaningful as a result. Shared workspace, open space, and semi-public space serve as substitutes to personal living rooms. In other words, as individual living spaces get smaller, not only are there increased pressures on public resources, but developers are paying more attention to the amenity portion of the program. Developers are more likely to include these spaces in the program while also becoming more creative in their programming.

This harmonious relationship between public and private space is creating a strong demand for mixed-use buildings in Oakland, thereby furthering the opportunities for unique design of public space. An example of this can be found at The Hive on Broadway as well as on the servers of Oakland architecture offices everywhere.

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