An apartment or studio with an area of 18 square meters seems cramped. It can be roomy, spacious and stylish. The main thing is to take planning seriously and properly zone the space. Rules for lighting, design and tips for arranging furniture will make your living space a masterpiece of coziness and comfort.
If the apartment is one-room, this does not mean that it cannot be comfortable and beautiful
Planning and redevelopment of a room of 18 sq. m
Finding an apartment with the optimal layout is cheaper than remodeling in an inconvenient room. It’s worth thinking about this at the stage of purchasing a home.
The layout of a small apartment should be as comfortable as possible without overloading the already small area
Types of apartment layouts:
- closed layout, in which zones are separated by walls;
- partially closed with a separate private zone, the kitchen-dining room is separated from the bedroom, office;
- open (studio apartment), in which all locations are nearby, without fences.
The layout of the studio apartment consists of several areas - hallway, bathroom, kitchen, sleeping area and common area
Proper planning will help cope with cramped conditions if you follow the basic rules:
- Choose an apartment with a minimum number of load-bearing walls, there are more options for redevelopment.
- Pay attention to the location and number of windows. On the one hand, windows make the room light and bright, but if there are a lot of them, the windows “break up” the room. For a small area, one large window is optimal.
- Avoid narrow corridors and crowded walls. One spacious room is more comfortable than two tiny ones.
- It is better if the room is square or rectangular, not too narrow. It's easier to arrange.
- Use any available space. On the balcony, for example, you can make an office. Or combine a loggia with a room.
In a small room, you should plan zones of approximately the same size. The contrast between a spacious bedroom and a tiny kitchen can put pressure on the psyche.
Raise the ceiling
To make the living room visually increase not only in width, but also in height, you need to raise the ceiling. Not in the literal sense, of course, but with the help of design tricks. For example, make small canopies from plasterboard at the junction of walls and ceiling, thereby “raising” the middle of the ceiling. Or draw a rectangle of contrasting edging on the ceiling. It is located in the center and follows the contours of the ceiling along a smaller perimeter.
Photo: diningandlivingroom.com
Techniques for zoning a room of 18 sq m
Zoning a small space of Khrushchev-era buildings and modern studios can effectively emphasize each location. Often a kitchen and a living room, or a kitchen and a bedroom are combined in one room.
Separating the kitchen area from the guest area using a bar counter
Dividing a room into zones using a wooden shelving unit
Do not overload a multifunctional room with rich colors. Light colors with small accent spots (furniture or textiles) should dominate.
Basic zoning techniques:
- sliding partitions and frosted glass or plastic;
- an arch that visually divides the room into two parts;
- multi-level ceilings create the feeling that you have entered another room;
- difference in floor level, the podium will successfully hide the sleeping area;
- carpets or floor finishing, for example, tiles in the kitchen area, laminate in the dining room;
- decorative wall made of plasterboard with a glass insert, or with an aquarium;
- curtains that can be closed if privacy is required;
- wallpaper of different colors or different textures of wall decoration;
- furniture: a sofa in the middle of the room can mean a transition from the kitchen area to the living area; a shelving unit or cabinet will perfectly divide the room.
The partition rack will seem less bulky if you leave some of the shelves empty
Zoning methods are directly related to the interior style.
Lay out the floor with material in calm tones
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The floor in the living room is finished with any material: from simple linoleum to noble marble. For small living rooms, parquet, laminate, fashionable ceramic tiles, and porcelain tiles are best suited. The main issue here is the color of the material. Should it contrast with the walls or be close in tone to them, remain monochrome or be decorated with a multi-colored pattern. The answer is: for small living rooms, a monochrome floor from a range of basic colors is preferable, for example gray, beige, brown, “light wood”. Such a floor will give the feeling of “solid ground under your feet” and will support the “airy” walls and ceiling.
Photo: homystyle.com
Choosing an interior style for an apartment and studio of 18 sq m
The design of a studio apartment of 18 sq. m and a photo with one window implies light colors, multifunctional furniture and rational use of every meter.
Modern style
Modern style denies bulky furniture and unnatural materials. The style grew out of city apartments; it is most adapted to small areas. Involves a well-thought-out storage system, practicality of interior items and furniture.
Modern interior design style is most often chosen by young middle-income families
The color range is from white to gray. Pastel, beige, and black colors are used. Numerous lamps and LED strips add lightness to the interior.
Scandinavian style
The style is simple and clear, distinguished by light colors, freedom and small-sized furniture.
The unusually harmonious Scandinavian style has become especially popular in recent years.
Scandinavian interiors use wood, linen, cotton, stone and ceramics. Economy option involves imitation of natural materials.
The restrained, rational style seems to be created for small spaces. Predominant colors: white, light gray and any shades of blue. Coziness is created by textiles. No blinds - just curtains. The sofas are not leather, but soft fabric upholstery. An abundance of lamps, floor lamps and sconces is welcome.
High tech
The style is characterized by strict simple forms and a combination of plastic, metal, concrete, glass with a minimal amount of natural materials. High-tech requires decent expenses, because... involves ultra-modern technology with touch or remote control and leather furniture. Modular furniture and transformable furniture are welcome.
High-tech is characterized by straight lines and cold surfaces made of metal or plastic.
Main colors: grey, metallic, white, black and blue. Lots of lighting fixtures, including multi-level LED and hidden lighting. Instead of curtains on the windows there are blinds.
Classic style
The classics are respectable and time-tested. It involves high ceilings and spacious rooms. But even in an apartment of 18 sq. m, you can use a traditional classic design.
Classic style - luxurious and noble, based on natural materials, expensive fabrics and wooden furniture
Basic style elements:
- stucco;
- arch;
- elegant chandelier;
- draped curtains;
- fireplace or its imitation;
- paintings on the walls.
The basis of the classic style is symmetry and restraint. Not enough space? This means we’ll put armchairs instead of a sofa and a chest of drawers instead of a large closet.
When choosing a classic, it is important to understand that decorating such an interior will require serious financial investments.
An artificial stone countertop will replace marble, and a high-quality laminate will allow you to do without oak parquet. The place of traditional stucco molding will be taken by a ceiling plinth. This way you can convey the very meaning, the spirit of style, even in cramped conditions.
Classic is beautiful in light colors, from cream to beige, and in dark colors of natural stone and wood.
Loft style
A brutal loft is an excellent design option for an 18 sq. m studio (photo). Design elements:
- open plan;
- brickwork;
- concrete elements;
- a variety of contradictory textures;
- paintings without frames: drawings, graphics, abstraction;
- emphasis on wires and communications.
Loft - industrial style, involving rough materials and open communications
It is advisable to combine furniture in neutral tones with accent red or green poufs, radiators or shelving. The light studio loft direction allows play with bright colors. Three walls can be white, and one can be bright orange or turquoise.
The feature of the industrial style is diffused light distributed throughout the space.
Minimalism
Minimalism is characterized by rigor, restraint and a lot of free space. Main motives: functional furniture, built-in wardrobes, closed shelves. The laconicism of the furnishings is emphasized by roller shutters or blinds. And also the lack of decorative elements: paintings, rugs and figurines.
The name of the style speaks for itself - a minimum of furniture, things and decor
The main materials for repairs are wallpaper, paint or plaster. The color range is limited to a combination of two colors, for example, gray and white. The main motive of the style is an uncluttered space filled with light and air.
Provence
Cheerful Provence combines lightness, simplicity and gentle comfort. Decorative elements, textiles and cozy sofas are actively used here.
Provence does not welcome chrome parts, plastic and modern fittings. But antiques, peeling paint, chipped and aged furniture surfaces are appropriate.
The large window is decorated with light lace curtains. The walls are covered with floral wallpaper. Natural finishing materials and linen fabrics are welcome. Provence is a style of details, it involves embroidery, patterns, wood carving.
Easy and relaxed Provence is characterized by warm, calm tones and a cozy rustic atmosphere.
An 18 square meter studio designed in Provence style should be filled with sunlight and pleasant pastel colors.
Eco style
Features of the style are the abundance of natural materials and natural colors. No metal or plastic.
Natural shades are suitable for the interior of a studio apartment in eco-style
Proximity to the environment is provided by fresh flowers and compositions of branches or moss. The interior is complemented by clay products, porcelain dishes, and greenery on the windowsills. Eco-style is characterized by harmony of nature and a lot of light.
Living room and bedroom in one room
The interior of this room clearly shows the need to zoning the room into 2 zones - the living room and the bedroom. For visual separation, the designer here used a simple technique - a half-height shelving unit. Thus, the 18-meter living-bedroom received additional storage space.
The living area is highlighted with dark blue wallpaper and a beige carpet on the floor. The walnut upholstered sofa looks comfortable and can also be used as an extra bed if necessary. The low square coffee table has two glass tops. There is a flat-screen TV on the opposite wall. The sleeping area is as simple and bright as possible. A soft headboard upholstered in white leather, a white chest of drawers and snow-white bed linen - all this sets the mood for a calm mood.
The photo shows a modern design with zoning
Currently reading: Curtains for the living room, photo examples of curtains in the interior
The room looks harmonious due to the unifying elements. First of all, these are paintings. Translucent images of ballerinas, as if written in pencil, can muffle loud conversations and promote a soft atmosphere, comfort and harmony.
Design options for different rooms in an 18 sq. m apartment
A small apartment will accommodate both a place for receiving guests and a play area for a child. Arrangement of rooms, correct arrangement of furniture and rationale for each interior detail.
Living room
The living room is usually combined with a kitchen or dining room. If you have the first option, you can zone the space with a bar counter or kitchen island. If the living room is combined with a dining room, the space will be divided by a sofa with its back to the dining table.
Even if there is room for a bed in the room, it is advisable to still purchase a folding sofa - it will be useful for accommodating guests
Do you need to differentiate between the living room and office areas? Racks or plasterboard partitions with glass inserts will come to the rescue. The hallway area should be separated by a closet. Both useful and practical. The main thing is that there is room for an ottoman and a shelf for shoes in the hallway.
Bedroom
Is it possible to equip a separate bedroom? Great! There will fit a double bed, a wardrobe and bedside tables.
An open shelving will divide the common room into zones, but will not obscure the space
If the seating area is combined with the living room, the bed should be covered with a screen, curtains, shelving or closet. Depending on the style, the bedroom may not be hidden. An interesting option is a bed on a small podium or under the ceiling.
An interesting new product is a bed with a lifting mechanism, the bed of which rises to the top. Under the sleeping area of the bed there is a spacious niche for storing pillows, bed linen and things. Such furniture can replace a chest of drawers or a small closet.
A transforming bed is a godsend for a small apartment
Beds with retractable wall niches have become popular. They free up space in the room and allow for multifunctional use of any room. For example, at night the room is a bedroom, during the day it is an office.
Kitchen
The size of the kitchen space can easily be increased by adding a hallway. But it is better to leave part of the partition to avoid dust getting into the cooking area.
To avoid transfer of communications, the kitchen area is determined first.
A budget option for zoning the kitchen and living room is the use of decor and finishing materials. Can be used:
- wallpaper, plaster or paint of different colors;
- themed decor (still life with fruit);
- suspended ceiling, differing in color or texture;
- flooring (ceramics in the kitchen, cork flooring or laminate in the living area).
Kitchen furniture should be practical and comfortable. The finish is light, the table is rectangular, because... it takes up minimal space.
The kitchen set is chosen angular or linear, depending on the available free space
Bathroom
Numerous photos of bathroom design in a one-room apartment of 18 m2 prove that even on a few meters you can place everything you need. And also stylishly decorate the interior.
It is better to replace a bulky bathtub with a compact shower with a transparent partition
In a combined bathroom and toilet, space-saving techniques are used:
- light shades, minimum contrasting colors;
- presence of mirrors;
- built-in compact furniture, cabinets with closed doors;
- plumbing and household appliances of non-standard shapes and sizes.
It is advisable to use light shades when decorating walls and ceilings.
Zoning
If there is a need for a living room of 18 square meters to combine several functions and be equipped with a separate sleeping place or study, zoning is used to give the space a different geometry.
For example, if the interior of the hall is distinguished by the presence of a niche, it will ideally accommodate a bed. It is appropriate to equip this recess with sliding partitions or curtains. An equally advantageous place to install a sleeping bed will be the far corner of the room, which can be separated using a shelving unit or a small podium.
For conditional zoning, different floor coverings are suitable, such as laminate, parquet or more budget linoleum.
A living room of 18 squares with a workplace is divided using solid or transparent plastic and glass partitions. Also quite often they use functional plasterboard structures, which are equipped with bookshelves, niches and full storage compartments.
In the photo there is a room of 18 squares in a Scandinavian style with a sleeping place located in a niche.
The layout and zoning of the 18 sq. m hall is carried out according to an individual project, taking into account the needs, preferences and tastes of all family members. Regardless of the number of functional areas in the room, the most important of them is a place for relaxation.
Comfortable furniture and a TV are placed in the recreation area, decorated with expressive decor and bright details are added. This segment can be complemented with contrasting paintings, family photographs or colorful carpets.
The photo shows the zoning of a shelving in the interior of a living room of 18 square meters with a work desk.
Color solutions for one-room apartments and studios of 18 sq m
General recommendations for small rooms are calm tones. Minimum experiments with black, brown or dark gray.
Expressive accents will emphasize the individuality of the interior and dilute the monotonous atmosphere
The space is overloaded both by the use of four or more bright colors, and by the use of one white color. Optimally - a combination of two or three colors. Two colors - classic. Three are modern styles. Light colors are placed in the foreground, and bright or dark colors are placed in the back of the room.
When using a basic light tone with bright details, you must maintain a ratio of 60:30:10. Most of the space should belong to the base color, 30% to the moderate one, 10% to the brightest color.
Designers advise not to use combinations such as black/white, green/red, yellow/blue for a small apartment. They look good only in spacious rooms.
Apartment interior in pastel colors with a couple of red accents
Hang large mirrors
Not enough light walls and ceiling? Do you want to enhance the illusion of increased space? Then hang tall mirrors opposite windows or on a wall that spans the entire length of the room. Mirrors are great helpers in expanding rooms.
Photo: homedesignlover.com
Tips for repairing walls, ceilings and floors in an apartment and studio of 18 sq m
Advice from professional designers will help you in renovating your apartment:
- It’s better to redevelop and combine everything that happens. For example, a bathroom and toilet, a loggia and a room, a kitchen and a corridor.
- Using the same building material in a studio will make the space feel more cohesive.
- Drywall and plastic panels take up several centimeters of space.
- A TV mounted to a wall bracket takes up less space.
- If you decorate the ceiling 2-3 shades lighter than the walls, it will seem that the room is higher.
- High window openings and panoramic windows make the room light and spacious.
- Swing doors do not fit everywhere. They can be replaced with sliding or folding ones.
A mirror placed opposite the window opening will make the room visually larger and much lighter
Various photos of the design of an 18 sq. m room in an apartment and photos of studios illustrate original and practical interiors. Small apartments can be modern and edgy or cozy and practical. It all depends on the owners.
Paint the walls and ceiling the same color
Painting the walls white or one of the pastel colors to make the room look more spacious is a well-known design move. And indeed, light surfaces seem larger, more expansive, as if a soft, flowing color fills the space with fresh air, expanding it. This effect will be enhanced if the ceiling is painted the same color as the walls. Then he will not fall out of the holistic perception of the room, he will not “chop” it up and down. The equally painted walls and ceiling form a visually common area and thereby increase the space of the living room.
Photo: planete-deco.fr
Photo: 50 interior options for a one-room apartment
Modern style
Author of the Design-Lounge project
Dynamic, stylish, bright and modern - these are the words that can describe this living room. The brick on one of the walls brings the design of the 18 sq.m. hall closer. to the loft style, although the entire interior cannot be called such. There is a cozy massive gray sofa that can accommodate not only household members, but also guests. Pillows with geometric patterns support the overall idea of the room. But the main thing is the picture on the wall. The shot of the girl and the zebra running will not leave anyone indifferent.
The wall opposite is almost entirely represented by shelves with a glossy facade, in a niche of which there is a flat-screen TV. The wall at the entrance has almost invisible built-in shelves where you can place any necessary items - books, decorative items.
How to distribute the area
Before you start decorating your apartment, choosing and purchasing furniture, you should divide the room into zones.
When zoning you must adhere to the following rules:
- in a studio apartment, no matter what its size, when planning it is necessary to distinguish three main zones: bedroom, living room, kitchen. When the apartment is very small, the living room and bedroom are combined, because there is no space for a third zone;
- if two or more people live, everyone should have their own space. This function can be performed by a desk, chair or bed with a shelf or bedside table located nearby;
- there is no room for excesses in a studio apartment. This applies to furniture and items or accessories, as well as functional areas. Excesses will make the studio seem very small.
In apartment design, the main thing is to create visually free space using color combinations. It should not be cluttered with furniture so that it does not look like an overflowing pantry.
Furniture arrangement
It is important to furnish a small studio with furniture taking into account the number of residents, their age categories, preferences and tastes.
Typically, the following principles are adhered to in housing with a small area:
- the space should be used wisely - create the most open area possible, combining the living area with the hallway and kitchen.
- When remodeling, remove partitions, connecting living and living spaces. The furniture and equipment in the room should be combined according to their capabilities. Internal partitions, windows, openings, arches, podiums are decorated.
- Remove the doors, replace them with sliding ones or change the opening direction. Organize the interior vertically. This is available even with a ceiling height of 260-270 cm;
- When choosing furniture for a studio, they opt for universal options - buy non-standard or folding ones, which can be built into niches in the walls. These are beds with lifting mechanisms that transform into a wall with shelves, a wardrobe and a sofa. Use mobile furniture - transformers: screens on wheels, hanging wardrobes made of fabric, folding tables and chairs;
- resort to the effects of visually enlarging the room - mirrors, mirror surfaces, the right colors and wallpaper patterns, use suitable lighting and photo wallpaper.
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In a small apartment, it is important to prefer light colors when painting walls, ceilings, and floors. They should match the color of the furniture.
