The kitchenette, a small kitchen, used to be part of bedrooms in hostels, hotel rooms, small apartments, university accommodation or offices, often containing only the basics, such as a small fridge, microwave oven or small gas, and a laundry tub. This concept began to emerge in the United States of America in the early 20th century, and was linked to the need for less expensive living spaces, especially in major cities.
Today, the use of kitchenettes in low income housing and student accommodation in Beirut, raises a question as to whether this is a victory for housing rights, or a way to jeopardize the tenant’s comfort and raise the profits of landlords.