How to Remodel Studio Apartments

Dividing the space visually increases its functionality.

A studio apartment limits the available space, making design efficiency key during a remodel. A functional yet aesthetically pleasing space makes your studio apartment inviting. Your budget for your remodel plays a large role in the details of the project. Factors such as whether you are handling most of the work yourself, and the restrictions of the building, are also a consideration. Plan out your remodeling project before you begin work to create a guide for the renovations.

Instructions

1. Contact the building manager to determine whether there are restrictions on remodeling. Even if you own the studio apartment, you may face guidelines or restrictions for changing the space.

2. Inspect the apartment to determine if any of the current furnishings and fixtures are reusable. For example, you might refinish your bathroom vanity instead of replacing it or throw a slipcover over your sofa instead of buying a new one. Make a list of items you definitely want to replace.

3. Define a purpose for each area of the studio apartment. Make a list of the storage and furniture needs for each area.

4. Sketch each area of the apartment to create a floor plan. Include furniture placement and any new structures like a bookshelf to divide the space.

5. Hang curtains or use dividers to provide privacy in the sleeping area. The dividers also help define the various areas of the room. Furniture arrangement also helps separate the areas.

6. Add built-ins to fill small, unusable spaces if you can't find a piece of furniture to fit. For example, if you have a 2-foot-wide nook, build floor-to-ceiling shelving for storage or a custom desk in the opening.

7. Build a loft for your bed to create more storage or seating space in the apartment. Hang curtains along the front of the loft to cover items stored in the space. For a sitting area, place a low sofa or floor pillows in the space. Another option is to create an office space under the loft bed.

8. Hang mirrors in the space to create the illusion of a larger apartment. Mirrors also help reflect natural light to create a brighter space.

References

• House Beautiful; Making the Most of a Studio Apartment; Carol Spier
• This Old House; This Old Studio Apartment; Daniel P. Simmons III