In Europe, researchers and designers have developed the m-ch (micro-compact home) ,a tiny ,two-story,aluminum cube that , through efficient use of space ,can serve as a home for one or two people. The 8.5 -foot (2.6-meter) m-ch was inspired by the compact spaces in first-class airplane cabins. These tiny, transportable homes are now being sold throughout Europe.Hilda Koch, who lives in an m-ch with her husband , points out , "In the past , it might have been difficult to live in such a small space , but as long as you have a laptop and digital music played , you longer need a stereo system , countless CDs , photo albums , and shelves of books.