6 Studio Apartment Layouts That Just Work

Apartment living presents a number of challenges, as every item of furniture and ornament must earn its place within the small space to maximize its layout. 

We look at designs with more bed space, studios with sofa space, and innovative designs with loft space. Either decision will impact the layout of your studio apartment.

Grab your favorite beverage and take a comfy seat; below are a few layouts for studio apartments that work despite their challenging dimensions.

How do you lay out a studio apartment?

• Loft bed. It’s a lot of fun, comfortable, and a conversation piece; moreover, it frees up valuable floor space in a studio apartment. A studio apartment with limited space requires you to think outside the box for a solution that works for you.
• Murphy bed. An intriguing bit of furniture. Folded up it gives the impression that you are living in a much larger room living room. Folded down, you turn the area into a bedroom. 
• Separate studio spaces. Separating the living area from the bedroom can be achieved with furniture such as a bookcase or a mid-sized entertainment unit with a TV on top. Also, sofas will create a seamless transition from your bedroom to your living area.
• Sliding screens. When you need privacy, these are great for separating living areas and bedrooms. They are easy to install and highly effective.
• Use corners. Corners can be used for sofas and tables.

Here are some more tips.

1. Multi-functional furniture maximizes space.
2. Separating living areas.
3. Organizing and utilizing vertical space.
4. Large windows and mirrors for natural light.
5. Neutral color palettes create a sense of space.
6. Adding personality and interest with statement pieces.
7. Adding texture and definition to the space with rugs.
8. Use of plants to bring nature into the home.
9. Creating moods and atmosphere in the space with lighting.
10. Using throw pillows and blankets to create a sense of coziness.

1. Kitchen and living room combo

Do you eat at home? Is the kitchen important to you? Consider how often you have guests in a month or week where seating is an issue.

This can help determine if you need additional seating and how big a table you’ll need. If you don’t need to focus on food, you can opt for a sofa.

How to create this look?

Separate kitchen and living room area. This can be done with a sofa placement or a table for eating or work.

How easy is this look to achieve? Working on a simple scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex level to accomplish, this studio apartment layout is a 3.

2. Using Windows: A room with a view

If you have large windows, use them! This type of division allows you to maximize the light coming from the window and the living area.

As a linear dweller, you must choose which side of the room to live on. If all your power outlets are located on one side of the room, it's a simple decision.

How to create this look?

Place your furniture next to the windows. This is great for workspaces and eating areas. Doing this separates the room linearly. 

How easy is this look to achieve? Working on a simple scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex level to accomplish, this studio apartment layout is a 4.

3. Loft space: Heavens above

Creating an upstairs loft bedroom could be easier than you realize. You will need sound, sturdy walls, and supports to support a small mezzanine floor. When floor space is limited, it makes sense to look upward, and the results can be incredible.

You can use a staircase or ladder. Many Airbnb hosts will be inspired by this studio apartment layout.

How to create this look?

Build a mezzanine with stairs; it creates an upper space for a light, airy feel. 

How easy is this look to achieve? Working on a simple scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex level to accomplish, this studio apartment layout is a 9.

You need to consult a professional for this one. It might look simple, but the outer walls are load-bearing, so you may need to calculate.

4. Don't hide architectural features

Make the most of your studio apartment's architectural details, such as high ceilings and wood floors, to make it a beautiful space.

Transitioning from one area to another in an L-shaped apartment can be difficult, especially if you use doors and drapes to divide the rooms.

How to create this look?

Turn the structure of your walls into features with color. Also, don’t hide features like wooden floors.

How easy is this look to achieve? Working on a simple scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex level to accomplish, this studio apartment layout is a 3.

5. Add a focal point

A bold accent wall creates depth and interest in this tiny studio apartment. The wall gives the apartment a classy feel. An incredible look can be achieved with dark gray and navy.

You can also use a fireplace to draw your attention away from the studio apartment's dimensions.

A quirky oversized dining table is also an interesting talking point. 

How to create this look?

You can do this by painting a wall to draw attention. Also, you buy a unique piece of furniture like an electric fireplace or a quirky coffee table.

How easy is this look to achieve? Working on a simple scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex level to accomplish, this studio apartment layout is a 6.

6. Vertical Space: All levels are covered

The best may be saved for last! It has everything a young professional could need, including a beautiful sofa in a green, which symbolizes tranquility and calm.

A full-height bookcase separates the bedroom from the living room. As a layout and for comfort and privacy, it works well.

This modern studio apartment has some design and functionality built in. 

How to create this look?

Just get some vertical shelves and use them as a separator for your studio. A chic modern apartment will never go out of style, and a gorgeous color scheme will make it the essence of 21st-century city living. 

How easy is this look to achieve? Working on a simple scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex level to accomplish, this studio apartment layout is a 3.

Final thoughts

It's true that not everyone lives in a chic studio apartment, so addressing the needs of smaller layouts should also be considered.

The idea of creating a bedroom on a mezzanine may seem ambitious, but it might be just what you need.

There are numerous studio apartment layouts that can work for you, but you will have to move furniture around frequently until you find the perfect arrangement!