In early Mongolia, herders dismantle their yurt - a portable round tent made of felt or animal skin - in pursuit of new lands where they can raise their livestock. Not much further away is a digital nomad in Bali, preparing their next move into a co-living space in Ho Chi Minh City. Though separated by vast distances and cultural divides, these individuals are united by a timeless human desire - a quest mobility and adaptable living spaces. In light of geopolitical changes and emerging lifestyles, the demand for flexible residential architecture intensifies. In this era of increased mobility, is it enough for people alone to move, or will the buildings of tomorrow need to follow suit?
The number of digital nomads has risen in recent years, driven by a desire for flexibility, improved work-life balance, and the ability to travel while working. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift dramatically, with 88% of employees working from home regularly during the crisis, compared to just 31% before. This transformation has catalyzed new housing models, particularly "subscription housing" - where occupants pay a monthly fee to rent furnished apartments, utilities and services. Companies like Cabin have emerged to meet this need, offering a large network of living spaces across the world that customers can switch between, creating digital communities.
