Studio apartments are unique, compact layouts that are gaining in popularity. No matter if you’re in a high-rise luxury studio or a more affordable efficiency close to campus, they all have one thing in common – a combined living and sleeping area. That’s right, in a studio apartment, the living room and bedroom are one and the same. So how do you live big in a smaller space? Here are some details you may not have considered…
Studio Space
Fitting your entire life into 450 square feet could present some challenges. So it’s important to find a studio apartment with features that give you the experience of a larger floor plan. Spacious kitchens with full-size appliances allow you to cook, clean and dine without frustration.
Dishwashers keep your counter-top space clean, avoiding dirty dishes sitting out and making a small space seem even more crowded. Tons of cabinets and drawers help you to stay organized and keep clutter from view. While an over-the-range microwave gives you more room for food prep or decorating. Speaking of range, we can all agree that tiny stoves or ovens are silly, right? Efficiency does not always mean the loss of functionality. Full-size stoves only, please!
So we’ve covered the cook and clean portions, what about the dining option? The idea of eating, sleeping and relaxing in one singular space can be down right discouraging. Enter, the breakfast bar! A large breakfast bar is the perfect place for enjoying meals, entertaining guests or even keeping a work space. All without losing precious square footage. If the studio you’re considering does not offer a breakfast bar, you should look at other options. Crumbs in your bed that is also considered your couch, that’s also your office, will only make you dream of the day your lease is over.
Practical Perks
Amenities are a priority. Parking, storage, and recreation are all important things to keep in mind while apartment hunting. Bonuses like washer and dryer being on-site, having an underground parking space and fitness center access are at the top of the list too. Overall, amenities seem to be more and more influential for the studio renter specifically.
Dealing with that singular space can include the joys of redecorating the same day you moved in, or the frustration of realizing you can’t fit everything you’d hoped. Storage is vital with small space living. To keep things neat, opt for a community that allows you store those collectibles and extras near, but outside of your apartment.
Add to your living area with a large patio or balcony and create a secondary nook to enjoy outside of your living/bedroom. Potted plants, cafe dining sets, and outdoor lighting can create a peaceful, fresh extension to enjoy alone or with guests all year long!
Floor Plan/Layout
When someone says studio apartment, the first thought that comes to mind is space or the lack of it. Creating the illusion of more space is key for any studio layout, and easier than you may think. Using the right furniture and decor to section off or sometimes open up your combined living and bedroom, can make your studio feel much larger.
Start by separating your space with an area rug. This will help break up the big rectangle and spice it up with some different texture. Next, you should think of the floor as prime real estate. Sure, that bed with drawers built into the bottom seems like a smart idea, but having furniture with legs shows more of the floor and will make your apartment seem much more open. A glass coffee table or any other see through piece of furniture could also do the trick!
When everything is in one place, it’s important to multipurpose. Think about what can be used as a place to hold your TV but also your clothes, for example. Mounting shelves, using a cube shelf, placing your dresser inside your closet – all great ideas to think about before move in day.
If you need more inspiration or just a place to start, try searching for studio layouts on Pinterest. You’ll find all sorts of innovative ways to design a studio floor plan that fits your needs perfectly!