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Average Sizes: Comparing Two-Bedroom, One-Bedroom, and Studio Flats

For those seeking new rental accommodations, choosing between floor plans like two-bedroom, one-bedroom or studio configurations can present variables to consider. Discerning size differences and how liveable each option may feel is important for prospective tenants. 


When researching options recently, it was hoped a comparison of average sizes commonly found with various layouts could offer valuable context. In this article, we will look into the average sizes of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and studio flats. 


Studio, 1 bed flat, apartment

Average Apartment Size For Two Bedrooms

floorplan, 2 bedroom flat, studio

The average measured size of a two-bedroom apartment in 2018 was 1,138 square feet according to recent research. This popular layout option, chosen by 40% of renters, provides significantly more living space than smaller one-bedroom or studio flats that typically range from 500 to 800 square feet. Beyond the inclusion of two separate bedrooms, floorplans for two-bedroom units commonly feature an open living and dining area, one full bathroom, and a galley-style kitchen equipped with essential appliances. Many arrangements place the master bedroom nearer the living space with the second bedroom closer to the bath. Some flats offer added conveniences like walk-in closets or a niche that can serve as a small home office. 


At over 1,100 square feet, the ample dimensions of the average two-bedroom apartment lend versatility for both furnishings and everyday activities, with living areas spacious enough for entertaining or a family play area. The multi-room design also provides growing potential as children are housed or as bedrooms serve new purposes over time, like a home nursery or office. Likewise, two bedrooms afford privacy for roommates while optimizing shared communal areas.


Average Apartment Size For One Bedroom


bedroom, bed, pink walls

At an average of 757 square feet, the typical one-bedroom apartment floor plan provides more living area than a studio layout but less space than two-bedroom units. Sizes can vary slightly between states based on local real estate markets. Designed to comfortably house one or two residents, the one-bedroom format features an open living and dining space, full kitchen, and a single bedroom large enough to accommodate a queen-sized mattress. Some one-bedroom flats include dedicated nook areas meant for small home offices or reading books. 


While it is possible, squeezing more than two people into the limited 757 square feet of a one-bedroom apartment would result in overly tight quarters that lack sufficient space for basic daily living activities. Separate bedrooms become important for higher occupancy counts. Therefore, the one-bedroom aptly meets the basic housing needs of individuals or couples seeking modest accommodations through well-appointed sleeping, cooking, lounging, and storage areas, delivering efficient functional spaces without excessive unused footprint.


Average Apartment Size For Studio Flats


kitchen, wooden stairs, studio

Despite their smallest overall footprint of any rental layout, studio apartments demonstrate creative arrangements tailored to maximise usefulness within modest confines. Reports indicate the average measured studio size falls in the range of 500 to 600 square feet, comparable to reference spaces like a standard high school classroom or hotel room averaging approximately 400 square feet to provide contextual scale. While comprising just one shared living and sleeping area, studios incorporate varied designs like true open concept flats as well as layouts featuring lofted ceilings or alcoves allowing separated sleeping nooks. 


Moreover, built-in-furniture serving as bookshelves or half-walls help designate zones for activities like cooking versus relaxing within open-concept floor plans. High ceilings and large windows above minimum sizes also typify studio designs, filling interiors with natural illumination to lend a more spacious atmosphere, while strategic placement of windows and skylights furthers this effect. Ultimately, studio homes emphasise optimised functionality through efficient planning over excess square footage, exhibiting resourceful arrangements and making the most of their modest footprints through creative, space-maximising concepts. There are many hacks that can allow you to create a stylish look on a tight budget


Are Two-Bedroom Apartments More Expensive?


While two-bedroom apartments command higher prices than their one-bedroom counterparts, with estimates showing average rents that are approximately 13% above more limited single-bedroom units, this layout provides significantly more living space that is well worth the premium cost for most renters. Boasting over 300 additional square feet on average due to their second bedroom, the roomier 757 square foot floor plans of two-bedroom flats create a more spacious and comfortable living environment that feels less cramped than smaller options. 


Additionally, with the ability to split costs between multiple occupants, two-bedroom apartments become substantially more economical than solo-leasing a one-bedroom unit of comparable size. Location also heavily influences pricing, with rents in expensive metro markets charging higher two-bedroom rates than more affordable non-urban or smaller town settings. Therefore, while pricier up front, two-bedroom apartments represent the best long-term value for families, professional housemates seeking privacy, or those open to platonic co-living due to their versatile, adaptable layouts suited to various life stages. Thorough research into the typical two-bedroom costs specific to a target city or neighbourhood provides more accurate rent expectations.


How To Check The Size Of An Apartment?


When touring potential rental units, it is important to carefully verify listed apartment sizes, as photos and dimensions can sometimes be deceiving. Prospective renters should thoroughly review measurements provided for the overall space as well as individually for distinct areas like bedrooms and living rooms, and have screening staff confirm square footage to ensure accuracy by comparing to floorplans. 


Observing window sizes and numbers, recording full-length video walkthroughs of each room to later re-watch for judgments on flow and spaciousness, and pacing off common dimensions while visualising furniture arrangements can all help gauge functional utility versus just total square footage. It is also wise to check for adequate countertop and cabinet storage in decorative ideas for kitchen beyond overall size, confirm all closets and built-ins are fully usable rather than decorative, and consider if bedrooms can realistically accommodate a bed and nightstands with adequate foot traffic pathways. 


When available, viewing during evenings when greater viewing traffic occurs provides better insight into true unit flow compared to daytime showings. Leveraging multiple verification tactics helps renters make accurate livability determinations versus relying solely on listed measurements or photos online.


Conclusion:


Comparing average sizes highlights key differences to consider between two-bedroom, one-bedroom, and studio flats. The additional square footage of a two-bedroom provides maximum versatility for families, roommates, or future growth. One-bedrooms strike a balance of living space and affordability well-suited to small households. Efficiently planned studios demonstrate how adequate space can still be achieved in a compact layout through clever design. Ultimately, understanding typical measurements empowers renters to envision daily routines and furniture arrangements based on their needs and lifestyles. Choosing the floor plan that aligns best sets individuals up for comfort in their new living situation.

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