Living in a one-room apartment has many advantages. Of course, this saves you a lot of money, but it can also prevent you from accumulating a lot of unnecessary things. A small living space is easier to keep clean. Plus, with less space, you can be more picky about choosing the best furniture for your studio apartment to keep it cozy and stylish.
Apartment layout
Before you go shopping for furniture for a one-room studio apartment, you need to think a little about the layout of the apartment. If living space is limited, it will be difficult to make the most of every square centimeter. But this can be done with the help of a floor plan.
Draw a studio plan and come up with the ideal layout for yourself. Once you have a clearer idea of what your living space will look like, it's time to start selecting furniture.
Studio furniture
Studio furniture is important because it creates the backdrop for the interior. Arranging furniture in a small space is always a challenge, and this is especially true if it is a bedroom, living room, dining room, work space and kitchen all rolled into one.
If several rooms are located on the same surface, then you should choose structures that can be placed against the wall. As a result, the center of the apartment will remain empty, and its space will seem larger. Movable furniture such as folding tables and chairs are a practical option.
Carefully dividing the kitchen area by installing an extended bar counter is also a popular solution.
Design options for a small studio depending on the area
12 sq. m
The basic rule for decorating a studio apartment with an area of 12 square meters. m. - multifunctionality. Almost every item plays several roles, for example, the bar counter acts both as a dining table and as a partition, separating the kitchen area. And the elements that divide the space can also act as a storage system.
A small room will appear wider with mirrored panels on the closet.
Transparent accents are also a good technique; a large mirror, glass table and glossy surfaces will help to visually expand the space.
16 sq. m.
The interior of a small studio can be played with light and a multi-level effect for the ceiling: stylish lamps and soft rays of diffused light visually expand the space. A multi-level ceiling will visually “stretch” the walls.
White glossy cabinets will make the studio brighter and more spacious
29 sq. m.
For a studio of 29 sq m, you can choose a design from a photo on the Internet. But there is also one common technique for visually increasing space - bright accents. Several large spots in the interior will attract attention and the total area of the studio will visually expand. For example, a colored painting on a light wall or a bright table in a room where pastel colors dominate. An apartment of 29 sq m is a universal option for this kind of reception.
To prevent the space from looking cluttered, you should not use too many small details when decorating it.
35 sq.m.
A lot of “air” in the interior contributes to the feeling of spaciousness; in order to achieve this effect, the windows should be enlarged. A floor-to-ceiling window will fill the entire room with sunlight and also create the feeling of a high ceiling.
Due to the large amount of sunlight, the room looks much more spacious
42 sq. m.
One of the most common types of studios. In terms of area, such a studio is comparable to a two-room apartment. It is proposed to zone such a space with screens and sliding elements, which can be made of either transparent or frosted glass. And monochrome walls with bright accents will expand its area.
A glass sliding partition will retain natural light, and if privacy is needed, a curtain made of thick fabric can simply be added to it
Partitions
Space distribution is one of the first problems that studio apartment owners face. The fact that there are no walls to separate different areas of a studio apartment does not mean that you cannot divide the space yourself. It's easy to create several small rooms using furniture partitions.
Bookshelves, small cabinets and folding screens are good examples of furniture that can help divide a space and provide much more storage space, especially for book lovers and collectors. Rugs and curtains can also help define where the bedroom, living room and kitchen are located.
Design options for different rooms in a small studio
The hallway in studio apartments is usually small. Built-in furniture, a hanger with hooks and a shoe rack are appropriate here.
Living room
There are several points that contribute to the visual increase in space:
- combining several rooms: for example, a living room with a balcony;
- a lot of light: a large window will add “air” to the interior;
- proper zoning: you should separate the living room from the kitchen without overloading the space with massive partitions;
- color and lighting: additional space can also be added by light shades and various light sources;
- different levels: you can also “raise” the walls of the living room using finishing materials or shelves; to expand the space, it is recommended to use photo wallpaper or a bright print;
- high ceiling: vertical lines on the walls will visually raise the ceiling.
You should also not forget about the main functionality of the living room; guests are received here, friendly or family meetings are organized, so the area used must correspond to these purposes. The presence of comfortable, multifunctional furniture, good lighting and air conditioning are mandatory items.
For a family with a child, a place for a children's corner is allocated in the living area
Kitchen
In a studio apartment, the kitchen is a special place, the reason is that in rooms of this type the kitchen is combined with other rooms, so the requirements for organizing the space here are somewhat different:
- absence of odor and noise: it is necessary to have a powerful, silent hood capable of completely absorbing odors;
- partition. You can also zone the kitchen with a sliding partition, the panels of which are put away in a pencil case;
- unified style: the kitchen area should resonate with the general ensemble of other rooms; space saving: built-in household appliances will save square meters.
In a small studio there is simply no full-fledged kitchen, only a small catering unit
Bedroom
The sleeping area must meet all human needs for balanced relaxation, which is quite a difficult task in a studio apartment. Several techniques will help solve it:
- Proper zoning: there must be a partition in the sleeping area. If you can only conditionally delimit the space between the living room and kitchen, then you should choose sliding doors or screens for the bedroom.
- Emphasis on comfort: increasingly, designers recommend prioritizing convenience. Bed, good linens and dim lights.
- Sound insulation: on sale you can find screens that have sound-absorbing properties; such an item will fit into the interior and allow you to relax even in noisy conditions.
An excellent solution would be to place the sleeping area in a niche, separated from the general space by a curtain or sliding partition.
Bathroom
Manufacturers offer a wide range of sanitary ware and bathroom furniture; multifunctional options are suitable for a small room.
- Shower cabin or bathtub: first of all, the choice depends on personal preferences, however, a shower cabin takes up less space, among other things, there is the option of installing stained glass windows with a tray for additional space saving.
- Cabinets and shelves: in order to save space, it is recommended to use built-in cabinets and shelves; you can also use the space under the sink, using it to install a small chest of drawers; in addition to convenience, this technique will allow you to hide the details of the plumbing.
An ideal option for a small bathroom would be a corner shower stall.
Main focus
Furniture is comfortable and practical, but it can also help decorate your living space. Choosing one or two focal points will serve as the basis for the decor of the apartment. For example, if you have a nice bookshelf, you can place it in the middle of the room to act as a wall between the living room and kitchen.
You can also buy a sofa in a bright color and then find some decorative accessories that will go well with it. If all the furniture doesn't match, the decor can feel overwhelming in such a limited setting.
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Quality furniture
In addition to the aesthetic and functional properties of the furniture, it is necessary to focus on the quality of the materials from which it is made. Instead of hunting for a great deal on a lot of furniture, buy just a few quality pieces that will look great and be more durable.
Antique and retro
High-quality furniture can be expensive, but this should not overburden the family budget. If you have antique pieces of furniture, you can restore them yourself or contact specialists. Antiques can also be purchased at auctions or consignment stores.
This furniture is well suited for furnishing studio apartments in classic, Provençal and retro styles. This is a great option for people on a budget.
Multifunctional
Multifunctional kits will help you make the most of your space. For example, a folding bed can be a comfortable sofa and additional storage space.
A coffee table can serve as additional storage space and a decorative element. The possibilities are endless.
Smart storage solutions
Every home needs storage space, and a small studio apartment needs smart solutions that don't take up much space. For example, an ottoman, a coffee table with several storage drawers, a chest, wicker baskets, wall shelves, book dividers with additional cabinets.
A little ingenuity will go a long way in creating a cozy interior, even when living spaces are limited to one room.
Choosing an interior style
When arranging a studio apartment, the issue of choosing a style is especially acute. The less space, the more important the unity of design and thoughtfulness of details. You can decorate a studio apartment in both classic and modern directions. We offer several options for your consideration.
Studio apartment in loft style
Loft has not lost its position among trends for several years now, and this is unlikely to change in the foreseeable future. Studio apartments decorated in this style fully reflect its original concept: converting workshops and work spaces into functional living spaces.
The loft is quite rough and heavy. It is better suited for larger studios. It uses dark colors, raw surfaces, and open communications. Bare concrete and brickwork are appropriate here.
To diversify your design, add a little color to it. For example, bright panels of a kitchen unit, a mosaic apron over the work surface, colored lamps. If possible, pay attention to floor-to-ceiling French windows. They will fill the room with light and compensate for the gloom of a deliberately industrial loft.
For flooring and furniture, choose wood with the effect of an untreated or aged surface. You can simply scrape off the old parquet. If the height of the apartment allows, leave another key attribute of the loft - ceiling beams. This can be natural wood or finished plasterboard structures.
Retro radiators, aged lamps, copper and brass decorative elements look good in a loft. And for partitions and zoning, use functional double-sided shelving or cabinets with a mirror surface.
Studio apartment in Scandinavian style
Light, airy and extremely functional, it is at the peak of popularity when designing studio apartments. There are several reasons for this: an abundance of light colors, cozy natural materials, practical furniture.
The main range is shades of white, beige, cream, pastel colors. Wood and wooden surfaces with natural texture are actively used. And fresh flowers and flowerpots add color.
The floor in such an apartment is covered with parquet or laminate to resemble natural wood. It is desirable that it matches the shade of large furniture: cabinets, shelves, countertops. Wallpaper in the Scandinavian style is almost never used. Variegated designs are not used either. Level the walls and paint them the same color: what could be simpler?
Contrasting furniture looks interesting against a light background. Dark colors in this form do not make the apartment too gloomy. Decorative items in Scandinavian design are minimal. These are paintings, photographs, cozy textiles. Look for curtains and pillows made of natural fabric with small geometric or floral patterns.
To zone a studio apartment, use lightweight folding screens. They fit perfectly into Scandinavian and oriental styles. You can fence off your sleeping area with them.
Studio apartment in minimalist style
Minimalism in the interior can look completely different, but it is always characterized by simplicity and conciseness. These are clear forms, a minimum of objects, maximum functionality. A good solution for the design of small studio apartments.
Minimalism means light shades. But not necessarily natural. For example, variations of gray are in fashion. Simple and not too flashy designs are also allowed. “Classic” minimalism does not use more than 5 colors. Among them are several basic and several bright, accent ones. For example, blue, green, red, yellow, orange.
Do you like bold decisions? Paint one of the walls with bright paint. This immediately sets the mood of the apartment and helps with zoning.
Don't get carried away with furniture. Take only what you need! Avoid decorative shelves, cabinets, stands and other small items. Leave one spacious wardrobe. You can build it into the wall or use it instead of a partition.
In the minimalist interior of a studio apartment, paintings, figurines and other decorative items are rarely used. But such an interesting design tool as lighting appears in all its glory.
Studio apartment in Provence style
Provence is a good choice for those who love decorative interior styles. It is quite graceful and elegant, but at the same time not as pretentious and massive as modern or Victorian classics.
Provence means calm pale colors, natural textures, an abundance of textiles, and plant motifs. To design a studio apartment, use light wooden floors and light carved furniture, all kinds of tablecloths, napkins, tulle, and openwork lace.
A stylish and at the same time practical accessory is beautiful porcelain dishes in racks. When not in use, it decorates the room.
Pay attention to textile partitions: curtains, screens. Ideally, they should be in harmony with pillows, bedspreads, and curtains.
Studio apartment in high-tech style
Fashionable high-tech is ideal for modern studio apartments. In concept, it is similar to other minimalist trends, but it has its own distinct features.
High-tech means chrome-plated parts, open communications and fittings, glass, plastic, metal. This is a cold, urban interior, but without complex fancy forms, unlike futurism. Choose furniture to match: metal frames, glass and glossy surfaces or contrasting matte finishes, functional sliding partitions.
Take advantage of multi-tiered lighting. Decorative lighting for niches, cabinets and podiums is especially good in high-tech.
If the Scandinavian style is based on natural materials and colors, then high-tech is modern artificial materials and a cold, simple color scheme with unusual bright accents: orange, turquoise, crimson.
Furniture size
The size of the apartment and architectural features play a key role in choosing furniture that can fit comfortably in a studio. It is recommended to select items that correspond to the scale of the apartment - ceiling height and actual floor area.
For example, a sectional sofa that takes up most of the available space leaves little room for accent tables, shelving, an entertainment center, bookcases or additional seating. Instead of giant sectionals, opt for a compact sofa with a pair of matching armchairs to create a comfortable and inviting environment.
Aesthetics
Aesthetic properties are of great importance when choosing an interior design style. It can be: minimalism, modern, classic, Scandinavian, Provence, loft and more. It all depends on the personal preferences of the owners.
An easy solution is to choose transitional furniture pieces that combine both traditional and modern features. They are built with straight lines, with slight curves and pointed or slightly rounded corners.
Wood pieces and chunky legs on sofas and chairs are typically dark brown to jet black tones with a satin finish. Choose upholstery fabrics to suit your lifestyle and taste. For example:
- The classic leather sofa is durable and suitable for any decor;
- Budget-friendly microfiber upholstery, suitable for children and pets, available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including animal prints.
You can complement the decor with an unexpected color accent in the form of an updated antique cabinet in bright orange, yellow or blue.
More: DIY furniture for the living room - what material to choose
Accent tables with mirror or glass tops reflect light, making small rooms feel more spacious.
Style options for interior design in a studio apartment
Ethnic style is at the peak of popularity; it combines ethnic motifs of various nationalities of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Ethno will appeal to those who love to study the culture of the world's peoples and travelers. The color of distant countries brings warmth and exoticism to the interior. When choosing this direction, you should adhere to the rule of the golden mean: a large number of objects in a small room can visually reduce its area.
Moroccan style is the natural colors of Africa, diluted with expressive, but not too bright accents
Scandinavian style is distinguished by its laconicism; this direction has several rules: light shades, a lot of sunlight, natural materials, bright accents, multifunctionality of objects. When choosing this style, you should abandon thick curtains, abandon plastic interior items, and purchase several bright details (a rug, a vase, a coffee table). A small studio is a suitable option for the Scandinavian style; it will visually expand the room.
Real boards are the best flooring option for a Scandinavian-style studio
Eclectic style is a mixture of styles subordinated to one idea. For example, a gothic sofa and a classic coffee table look eclectic if such a “neighborhood” is diluted by a painting in the pop art style. Eclecticism is a rather difficult style to implement, in which designers do not recommend combining more than three directions at the same time.
Eclectic interiors, as a rule, are very individual, artistic and connected within themselves by some idea
Modern style - urbanism, is characteristic of residents of megacities and lovers of drive. Decorating a small space in this style is a good idea. Interesting interior details, bright posters, well-designed lighting, modern furniture characterize this style.
You can diversify a modern interior by introducing unusual elements, for example, by installing a bar counter of an original design
Fusion style is one of the most risky trends in interior design; it is characterized by many details and elements of different textures, colors and styles. Fusion is a style for the brave; it can be interestingly played out even in a small apartment, choosing large objects and placing bright accents.
When decorating an apartment in a fusion style, it is important not to cross the line between what is allowed and a disorderly mixing of everything. Otherwise, the room may simply turn into a vinaigrette.
The loft style is a brutal style that originated in the USA; lofts were called attics and abandoned premises equipped for housing. Later, designers picked up the idea and offered the market an interesting solution in the form of raw brick walls, minimalism and discreet decor. Loft is organic in studio apartments.
The loft is distinguished by its scale and freedom, which allows you to create a unique interior in the atmosphere of an attic
The style of minimalism is restraint and rigor, the absence of flashy details and pretentious elements. Suitable for lovers of the classics, minimalism does not go out of fashion, straight lines and restrained shades of two or three colors will always be relevant. Practicality is another point inherent in minimalism; for example, technical fabrics are often used to create this design.
The colors in the minimalist style include milky, gray, beige and light brown tones.
Double furniture
There are a few different ways to make the most of your furniture choices in a studio apartment. Most importantly, the furniture should fit the space.
Important! Don't buy anything too bulky or oversized.
Save precious studio space by choosing furniture pieces that do double duty. An ottoman storage bench serves multiple purposes: a comfortable place to rest your feet, a place to set drinks and snacks, and a gaming table.
It is also recommended to choose seats that can also be used for sleeping, for example, a folding chair or a sofa with a small folding bed.
Use the folding table for work during the day and as a place to dine in the evening.
Arrangement of a studio apartment using zoning
There are several ways to zoning space:
- Zoning with furniture: bar counter, sofa, bookshelf - can act as an element separating several zones.
- Zoning with light: pendant lamps, table lamps, lanterns - elements that can be used to separate the bedroom from the living room, using dim light in the sleeping area and brighter light in the living room.
- Zoning with partitions: to ensure that such division does not look cumbersome, it is recommended to use carved partitions. Also, they can be made of glass, wood and plasterboard.
- Zoning with curtains: flowing chiffon can also serve as a partition; it is important to correctly select the density of the fabric and its shade.
- Zoning with color: colored details can act not only as an accent, but also to delimit space.
The partition rack does an excellent job of separating and at the same time serves as a storage system.
Drawing conclusions, it can be noted that a studio apartment is a fairly convenient option for living. You just need to follow a few rules when designing it:
- Decide on a style: since a studio is a single space, the design of a small studio apartment should be made in the same style.
- You should decorate different studio rooms paying attention to their features: a hood for the kitchen, zoning for the bedroom, a blind door for the bathroom.
- You can visually increase the space through the play of light, color ensembles, geometric shapes, and interior items with glass surfaces.
- Furniture should be chosen that is multifunctional: sliding, with built-in shelves.
- You can zone the space not only with partitions, but also with furniture, light, curtains, and house plants.
The easiest way to separate the kitchen area from the rest of the room is with a bar counter
Furniture designs
Most studio apartments have unused space on the wall or in the corner. Plasterboard and wood shelves are great for small spaces as they provide an economical storage solution that can sometimes eliminate the need for entire pieces of furniture.
Instead of a tall bookcase, you can opt for a floor-to-ceiling shelf. Or, better yet, designs placed close to the ceiling can look especially charming.
Fans of original solutions will love the built-in wall niches, which serve a practical and decorative function.
Small studio apartment
A particularly small studio apartment simply won't have room for a coffee table, let alone large surfaces like a modular dining table. An elegant multifunctional solution that, when unfolded, can be used as a dining or office table, and when assembled as a dressing table or sideboard.
Depending on the size of the room and the height of the ceiling in the studio apartment, it is recommended to use a bunk bed. There are many unique models designed for adults that can be a great way to save space in a small room.
If the apartment has low ceilings, then a bunk bed can visually make the room smaller; in this case, it is best to use a folding sofa or a transformable bed. In studio apartments with high ceilings you can install a loft bed.
Features of the interior design of a small studio
Before you start thinking about the design of a small studio, you should pay attention to some of the nuances of such a room:
- Good audibility: due to limited space, the operation of electrical appliances, household appliances and plumbing fixtures can be irritating.
- Lighting: For the same reason, bright light can be difficult to perceive.
- Large pieces of furniture: Large, non-mobile furniture will not only reduce the overall space, but can also make it difficult to move.
Taking into account all of the above features, you should choose silent appliances, solid, durable doors for the bathroom, properly arrange the lighting and pay attention to mobile, movable furniture - transformers.
Small studio apartments are most suitable for a single person or a married couple without children
Furniture display cases
Before decorating the interior, you should think about what style to decorate the room. Of course, the most important thing here is the furniture (although accessories can give the room its own unique character). When arranging a room, it is worth considering furniture display cases and chests of drawers. These pieces are extremely practical and can also make a room feel more chic.
Furniture display cases are usually a standing cabinet with glass fronts. In the case of narrow models, this piece of furniture is often called a wall. Hanging models are also available. Their versatility allows you to create interesting compositions in the interior.
More: How to place a bed in a one-room apartment
Smaller models can be combined with an RTV table to create a practical version of a modern wall unit. Larger and more massive sets are an excellent place to store dishes not only in the dining room, but also in the living room.
Depending on your taste, you can choose minimalist, simple forms without unnecessary ornaments or more rich and decorative forms. The use of these items does not have to be limited to the living room or kitchen. This furniture can be a good solution even in the bathroom. Here, of course, it is important to choose models that match the design of the room.
The most important thing is the color. If the studio is designed in dark colors, the optimal solution would also be to choose dark brown or black designs. This model will look really impressive if there is decorative lighting inside.
Furniture display cases are not only decorative, but also a practical solution for the interior. The ability to store various items in them, such as porcelain figurines or dishes, allows you to add even more style to the room.
When choosing a piece of furniture of this type, it is worth choosing a model that will fit well with the style of the rest of the furniture in the studio.
How to properly decorate walls, floors and ceilings in a small studio apartment
When decorating walls, floors and ceilings, you should build on the chosen interior design. But there are several rules that will help significantly increase the space:
- Extend the walls: vertical stripes, small patterns on wallpaper - visually lengthen the walls; paintings placed at the top of the wall also cope with this task.
- Decorate the floor: soft carpets will give a feeling of comfort and warmth, natural wood or laminate, linoleum made to look like wood can expand the space, tiles will also increase the area, however, such material is appropriate in the kitchen and bathroom area.
- Raise the ceiling: multi-level ceilings are a modern solution; this technique is appropriate not only for small rooms, but also for large, commercial ones. Protrusions made of plasterboard on the ceiling, decorated with small lamps, can raise the ceiling.
Light wall decoration contributes to the visual expansion of space
Modular furniture, or the benefits of a variety of configurations
Trends in the world of furniture change from time to time - that's obvious. It happens that a piece of furniture that triumphs in one season is outdated in the next. However, it is often the case that this type is extremely fashionable over the years.
This is the case with modular furniture. Their most important advantage is the ability to create individual and unique compositions using ready-made elements.
Thanks to this, regardless of the size of the room, it is possible to design a room that meets expectations in terms of usability. Modular furniture sets consist of several elements - these are, as a rule, chests of drawers, tall cabinets, corners and tables. This set is suitable for any studio, regardless of its size.
Modular furniture is a solution that is extremely attractive for interiors with an unusual layout. For example, a chest of drawers may differ in the number of drawers, cabinets and other elements.
The choice of each part contributes to the diversity of the entire set and the way individual elements are arranged. The result can be the acquisition of truly unique equipment.
Practical system furniture
Designers of modern system furniture are trying to ensure that their designs allow the creation of truly functional sets. Many of them have dual functionality - during the day they create, for example, a wardrobe with a pull-out top that allows you to work on a computer, and at night, by pulling out the moving elements, they can create a sleeping sofa.
Thus, modular furniture has many advantages. These sets can be used in the studio, as well as in separate rooms: living room, bedroom and kitchen. Depending on the size of the room and architectural features, it can be positioned in such a way that daily use is truly ergonomic.
