265-Square-Foot ‘Micro Loft’ Inside America’s Oldest Indoor Shopping Mall Snags a Buyer Within Days of Listing for $225K

A tiny "micro loft" inside America's oldest indoor shopping mall is presenting a unique opportunity for consumers to embrace a much more minimal lifestyle—while also enjoying a one-of-a-kind tie to their favorite pastime.

Located in Rhode Island, the pint-sized property looks set to fly off the proverbial shelf, having come under offer mere days after listing for $225,000, proving that what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character and affordability.

The extraordinarily cozy abode spans just 265 square feet inside the storied Providence Arcade, an iconic structure that was originally built in 1829, when it reportedly became the very first indoor shopping mall in the country.

However, in 2012, the building was transformed into a mixed-use development that now boasts 48 affordably priced lofts located above retail spaces.

Interestingly, this particular unit—which is so small it has no stove—faced far less enthusiasm from buyers when it was first listed for sale in July 2025, despite it being put on the market with a lower asking price of $219,900, a sum that was later lowered to $210,000.

But after it returned to the market on March 11, with the higher asking price of $225,000, it sat for just a matter of days before the seller accepted an offer.

According to David Hasslinger, who is co-listing the property with Lisa Jones, both of of Residential Properties, Ltd, one of the most appealing aspects of the apartment—in addition to its very unique location—is the investment potential; he explains that several of the units in the building are rented out by their owners.

"I sold two to someone who rented one [out] and lived in the other," Hasslinger says. "Quite a few of these have been used as rentals. Others have used them as a pied-à-terre—a place to stay in the city or a place to live while attending graduate school."

While the apartment's location inside a mall adds a good dose of wow factor, the design of the arcade itself also amounts to a very special living experience.

Located on the upper level of the structure around a window-filled atrium, the petite property feels much more spacious thanks to the abundance of natural light that streams in from every angle, with the dramatic atrium making it feel almost as if you are stepping outside.

The front entrance to the building also serves to add a very extravagant feel to the home, courtesy of the enormous columns that were styled after a Greek temple, according to the "Guide to Providence Architecture."

"The colossal Ionic columns at either end screen a three story interior space with shops that step back at each level behind balcony walkways atop the shops below them," it notes. "Illuminated by a large skylight (which once also provided ventilation), the space is daily suffused with a soft glow.

"Typical of the best Greek Revival buildings, broad surface expanses are relieved with discrete amounts of intricate detail, here the frilly ironwork of the upper-story balustrades."

Even after the mall was converted into a multiuse space, many of the historic elements were carefully maintained, which give it a very unique appeal and add to the overall allure of the unit, Hasslinger says.

"It's a beautiful building; the space is small but functional," he explains. "It has a sitting area and kitchenette with a hot plate and refrigerator. It's comfortable for a small apartment."

Glass entry doors open up to a living room with built-in seating and an oversized window that overlooks The Arcade. There is a shower stall in the one full bathroom.

While there is no stove, the kitchen does have lots of cabinetry and a small refrigerator. Jones says many owners use air fryers and microwaves in lieu of a traditional oven.

"Someone who buys a micro condo is looking for a place to land when visiting Providence for dinner, a show, or to enjoy the nightlife," she shares. "They could also use it as a rental in between their visits. There are also some folks who live there full time."

Because of its prime location within walking distance to hospitals, schools, restaurants, and shopping, the unique residences have attracted a wide variety of buyers.

"Providence is so walkable, especially the downtown area, so it appeals to everyone from students and professionals to restaurant owners and people looking to downsize," Jones notes.

"If you are interested in traveling, Providence is a phenomenal city. It's small but packs quite a punch. It's artsy, eclectic, and there are a lot of independently owned shops. There is just something magical about it."