What life looks like on two square meters: 10 photos

Two square meters is a very gloomy metaphor for us, Russian people. Like, this is how much space we will occupy in the cemetery. So, in fact, more is not needed. Fortunately, no one takes this statement seriously – in our country. But in Hong Kong, this is the norm.

Photographer Benny Lam grew up in Hong Kong, this fabulous city, a city of contrasts. Few people know about its non-tourist side. And hardly anyone wants to go there: in these areas, terrible poverty reigns. But the people of Hong Kong have long been accustomed to such a life and have adapted. It seems that they do not expect anything more – this is clearly visible in the pictures of Benny Lamb.

“Apartments”, which are also called “coffins” here, are really no more than two square meters in area. Standard apartments are divided here both in height and area. On 37 squares – this is a decent odnushka with us – 20 people huddle. Each has a separate cell where you can lie down. Lie down, but that’s all.

“Conveniences” and the kitchen block are combined here in one cage. The stove and toilet are located side by side – literally, this is not a metaphor. There is not even a curtain between them, everything is so close. It is no wonder that many people prefer to eat canned food and not go into the kitchen at all.

“When I saw how people live there, I burst into tears,” Benny Lam said. “I wanted to somehow draw attention to this problem, and that’s why I started this project.”

The tiny rooms have no windows, they literally have nothing to breathe. It is impossible to stand up to its full height there, to stretch out on the mattress while sleeping, too. These cells are too small. The wretched belongings of their inhabitants are hung on the walls. But many have a TV or laptop.

Larger families can afford “royal mansions” – as much as four square meters. It is believed that three or four people can comfortably accommodate in such an area: a bunk bed, someone is sleeping on the floor. Amenities are, of course, separate.

“Even looking at the photographs, it’s impossible to imagine what it’s like to be there. To do this, you need to visit this confined space yourself, “says Benny Lam in an interview with the portal. Vice.