Introduction | Is it a good idea to start living alone in a 1LDK apartment?

When it comes to living alone, one-room apartments and 1K apartments are often thought of as the standard, but in recent years, more and more people are choosing to live in "1LDK" apartments. A layout with a living room, dining room, and kitchen makes it easy to create a distinctive living space, and is perfect for people who want to work from home or spend time on their hobbies comfortably. Some people think that 1LDK apartments are too spacious, but with some ingenuity, they can become comfortable and efficient homes.

In this chapter, we will clearly explain why a 1LDK is suitable for living alone, how it differs from other floor plans, and what to consider when choosing one.

Why more people are choosing 1LDK apartments

The reason why more and more single people are choosing 1LDK apartments is due to diversifying lifestyles and increasing time spent at home.

In particular, with the spread of remote work, there is a growing need to separate work and private spaces. In a 1LDK apartment, separating the bedroom and living room makes it easier to switch between work and private spaces, creating a comfortable living environment.

Additionally, many people choose larger rooms with the possibility of cohabiting or getting married in the future in mind, and 1LDKs are also popular as a layout that people can live in for a long time.

Differences in living comfort between a one-room apartment and a 1K apartment

One-room apartments and 1K apartments are popular as they offer low rent and are compact housing, but they also have the drawback that because the living space is continuous, it is difficult to create structure in your life.

In a 1LDK, the living room and bedroom can be separated, creating more space for living and making life more comfortable. This ease of use is especially appealing for people who cook for themselves or who often invite people over to their room. 1LDKs also offer a high degree of freedom in furniture arrangement and interior design, allowing you to create a space that is unique to you.

Basic information about 1LDK and how it differs from other floor plans

The "1LDK" is a popular floor plan for people considering living alone, and is chosen by those who want more space in their lives. LDK stands for living room, dining room, and kitchen, and the unique feature of a 1LDK is that it also has a separate bedroom.

Compared to one-room apartments and 1K apartments, these apartments are more spacious and have the advantage of being able to divide the space. This makes it easier to switch between your work, hobbies, and private life, making for a more comfortable lifestyle.

Below, we will explain in detail the structure, approximate size, and differences.

What is a 1LDK? Basics of size and structure

A 1LDK consists of one room plus LDK (living, dining, kitchen) and its main feature is that the bedroom and living space are separated.

The typical floor area is around 30 to 50 m2, with the living area being at least 8 tatami mats in size. While ensuring a spacious space, you can use the rooms for different purposes, creating more space in your life.

There is also a relatively large amount of storage space and a high degree of freedom in arranging the furniture, making it possible to create a comfortable space.

The difference between a one-room apartment, a 1K apartment, a 1DK apartment, and a 2K apartment

Here's a brief summary of the differences between them.

• One-room apartment: The entrance to the living room is a continuous space, and the kitchen is usually located in one part of the room.
• 1K: The living room and kitchen are separated by a door, blocking out noise and odors to a certain extent.
• 1DK: Larger than a 1K, with a dining kitchen of more than 6 tatami mats and one room.
• 2K: There is a kitchen and two rooms, and the bedroom and living room can be completely separated.

1LDKs are larger than these and the living/dining/kitchen area is easy to use, offering advantages in terms of storage space, traffic flow, and comfort.

What is the standard for "too wide"?

Whether or not you feel that a 1LDK is too spacious depends on your lifestyle and values. Some people feel that around 30 m2 is enough, while those who need space to work from home or for hobbies may feel that even a 1LDK of 40 m2 or more is too small.

As a rough guide, if you have space that you don't use in your daily life, it's probably too big. Also, the balance between the effort required for cleaning and the rent is also important to consider.

It's important to determine what size home suits your lifestyle.

The benefits of choosing a 1LDK apartment for living alone

A 1LDK is often thought of as a luxurious floor plan for single people, but in reality it has many benefits, such as "separate living space," "plenty of storage space," and "a home that is future-proof." Compared to a one-room or 1K, it offers a higher quality of life, making it ideal for people who spend a lot of time at home or who value comfort.

Below, we will explain in detail the specific advantages of choosing a 1LDK apartment for living alone.

① Dividing the space brings more variety to your life

The biggest appeal of a 1LDK is that you can separate the living room and bedroom. This naturally brings balance to your life and allows you to have the space you need for relaxing, sleeping, and working.

For example, by working or studying in the living/dining/kitchen area and sleeping in a completely separate space, it becomes easier to switch off and get into a regular rhythm of life. This is an ideal floor plan for people who want to clearly separate their work and personal time.

②Can also accommodate visitors and remote work

A 1LDK is a convenient layout for guests. By using the LDK as a public space, you can entertain guests without showing them the bedroom, so you can feel at ease even if they visit suddenly. It is also suitable for working from home, and by clearly separating the work space from the relaxation space, it is easier to maintain concentration.

This allows for a layout that does not give the impression of everyday life even during online meetings, making it possible to achieve a lifestyle that balances work and private life.

3. Improved storage capacity and kitchen comfort

1LDKs tend to have more storage space than studios or 1Ks because they are spacious. The closets and shoeboxes tend to be large, making it easy to organize even if you have a lot of things.

In addition, the kitchens are often designed to be spacious, with plenty of cooking space and storage shelves, making them ideal for those who like to cook their own meals. A home equipped with functional facilities will greatly improve the quality of your daily life.

4. Be flexible in considering future cohabitation or marriage

A 1LDK is an ideal floor plan not only for people living alone, but also for those considering cohabitation or marriage in the future. With ample space and separate rooms, it is easy to start living together as a couple. It is also a cost-effective option from a long-term perspective, as it reduces the frequency of moving.

In addition, saving you the hassle of moving and searching for a property is a major benefit for busy working people.

Disadvantages and points to note when choosing a 1LDK apartment for living alone

1LDKs are popular as comfortable homes, but they can also mean more costs and hassle. The larger living space can mean higher rent and utility bills, and furniture arrangement can be a challenge.

There are also some people who feel that the space is too big to use. By being aware of these disadvantages before choosing a property, you can choose a home that you will not regret.

Here we will explain some of the most important things to keep in mind when living alone in a 1LDK apartment.

① Rent and utility costs tend to be high

The rent for a 1LDK property is generally set higher than that for a one-room apartment or 1K. Furthermore, because the property is larger, the cost of utilities such as heating and cooling tends to be higher, which may affect your monthly living expenses.

This can be a burden for those who are budget-conscious, so it is important to carefully consider the balance between rent and utility costs when choosing a property. Also, properties with higher grade facilities tend to have higher maintenance costs.

② Cleaning and arranging furniture takes time.

As the room gets larger, the area that needs cleaning also increases, so frequent cleaning is necessary in a 1LDK. Especially if you live alone, cleaning and tidying up can be a hassle since you can't share the task with someone else.

In addition, because of the spaciousness, it is often difficult to arrange the furniture, and many people are troubled by the question of "how to layout it so that it can be used efficiently." The fact that it requires a sense of layout and ingenuity can be said to be a bit of a high hurdle for beginners.

3) Risk of using too much room space

The spaciousness of a 1LDK is appealing, but when living alone, it can lead to "unused space." For people who spend little time at home or who aspire to a minimalist lifestyle, the space can easily go to waste and become stressful.

Also, if there is excess space, you run the risk of piling up things and ultimately making the room disorganized. It is important to determine whether the space is truly necessary for your lifestyle.

People who are recommended/unrecommended for a 1LDK apartment

A 1LDK floor plan is quite spacious for a single person, but how you utilize that space is up to you. Depending on your lifestyle and values, it can be very different whether you find it "comfortable" or "wasteful."

Here, we will summarize the characteristics of people for whom a 1LDK is suitable and those for whom it is not, and provide information that will help you decide whether it is the best home for you.

Suitable for ①: People who cook for themselves, work from home, and have many visitors

1LDKs are especially suitable for people who spend a lot of time at home. The spacious kitchen makes it easy for home cooks to cook, and the workspace makes it ideal for working from home.

Another advantage is that the living room and bedroom are separate, so you can accommodate guests without revealing your private space. For those who want to separate their living functions into different spaces, the 1LDK floor plan is a great advantage.

Suitable for ②: People who want to add some variety to their living space

A 1LDK is also perfect for people who want to clearly separate their work and personal time. The living room can be used as a place to relax and the bedroom as a place to rest, making it easier to create a rhythm in your life.

A major advantage of this plan is that you can create the environment that best suits your needs, whether you want to concentrate on work or hobbies, or just want to relax in a quiet space. This is a perfect floor plan for people who want to live a comfortable and well-planned life.

Suitable for: People who want to live a relaxed life

For those who feel suffocated in a small room or have too many things, the spaciousness of a 1LDK offers a stress-free life. Another attractive feature is the abundance of storage space, making it easy to create a designated place for things and tidy up.

You can also create your own relaxing space by adding potted plants and other interior items to the spacious space. Recommended for those who want to have more time and peace of mind.

Not suitable for: Minimalists who are satisfied with the minimum amount of space

For minimalists who believe in keeping possessions to a minimum and not needing space, a 1LDK may be a bit too much. Unused space not only increases the amount of cleaning and maintenance work required, but it can also feel like a waste of space.

For people who prefer a compact lifestyle, a one-room or one-kitchen apartment is often a more reasonable option. It is not suitable for people who want to live a minimalist lifestyle.

Not suitable for people who want to keep their budget low

For those who place top priority on running costs such as rent and utility bills, a 1LDK may not be the best choice.

The larger the apartment, the higher the rent, and the less efficient the heating and cooling, so the higher the utility bills. If you want to keep your fixed costs down as much as possible, a one-room apartment or 1K apartment offers better cost performance.

Careful decisions are needed, especially for students and new members of the workforce, at a stage in life when saving money is important.

How to choose a 1LDK apartment based on its layout and features

There are many different types of 1LDK layouts. The comfort of living in an apartment can vary greatly depending on the layout and structure of the rooms, so it's important to choose the type that suits your lifestyle. For example, there are a wide variety of options, from compact apartments for single people to designer properties that emphasize individuality.

Here, we will take a closer look at the characteristics and selection methods of typical floor plan types, differences in structure, and comfort based on the size of the living/dining/kitchen area.

1LDK for single people

1LDKs for single people tend to be relatively compact, ranging from 30 to 40 sq.m. Separating the bedroom from the living/dining/kitchen area allows for a clear and simple flow of traffic while still providing a sense of space. Many properties also have ample storage space, making them spacious enough for a single person to live in.

The appeal of this apartment is that it comes with all the necessary amenities, making it easy to start living comfortably right away. It is recommended for people who value a convenient layout while keeping rent low.

Center corridor type/windowless type/designer

There are different types of 1LDK apartments whose usability varies greatly depending on the floor plan structure.

• While the central corridor type makes it easier to ensure privacy for each room, it is less space efficient as it takes up space for the corridor.
• Windowless living/dining/kitchen areas tend to have lower rent, but they may not get enough light or ventilation.
• Designer properties are attractive because of their stylish and unique spaces, but sometimes the unique layout makes them difficult to use.

Choose the type of property based on your purpose and preferences.

Comfort level by living/dining/kitchen area size (8 tatami mats/10 tatami mats/12 tatami mats and up)

The size of the living/dining/kitchen area greatly affects the comfort of a 1LDK apartment.

Generally, a room of around 8 tatami mats is considered practical enough to fit a dining set and sofa, and a room of 10 tatami mats or more is spacious enough for living comfortably. A room of 12 tatami mats or more makes it easier to install large furniture and secure space for hobbies, and is also convenient for hosting guests.

On the other hand, the larger the apartment, the higher the rent and utility costs will be, so it's important to determine the size that best suits your needs. Choose a size that suits your lifestyle.

1LDK layout tips: Ideas for living comfortably

The appeal of a 1LDK is the freedom to divide the space, but to make the most of the spaciousness, it is essential to be creative with the layout. By clearly defining the roles of the bedroom and living/dining/kitchen area, you can create balance in your life, and by paying attention to the placement of furniture and the use of colors, you can achieve both comfort and style.

Here we will introduce some easy-to-practice tips on basic layout techniques and interior ideas to make the most of your 1LDK space.

How to separate the bedroom and living/dining room

To live comfortably in a 1LDK apartment, it is important to clearly separate the bedroom from the living/dining room (LDK).

If the layout has doors, you can clearly separate the spaces, but even if there are no partitions, you can visually separate the spaces by using partitions, curtains, or tall furniture. It is a good idea to use calm colors and lighting in the bedroom to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Separating spaces according to purpose can greatly improve your quality of life.

Tips for choosing furniture and arranging it

Because a 1LDK is spacious, the choice and arrangement of furniture will determine how comfortable it is.

First of all, be aware of the flow of daily life and try to arrange the furniture so that it does not get in the way. It is important to carefully choose the size of large furniture such as sofas and tables and arrange them in a well-balanced manner in the space.

In addition, by using furniture with storage, the appearance will be neater and the storage capacity will increase. By matching the height and materials of the furniture, you can reduce the feeling of oppression and create a layout that makes you feel spacious.

Stylish with uniform colors, materials, and themes

To make a 1LDK stylish and comfortable space, it is important to create a sense of unity in the colors and textures throughout the room.

For example, if you choose a natural look, you can create a warm and calm atmosphere by using wood-grain furniture and earth colors as the base. Narrowing down the theme color to 2-3 colors will create a sense of unity in the space and avoid a cluttered impression.

You can also coordinate it with fabrics such as curtains and rugs to create a more complete interior.

Rent comparison | 1LDK vs. Studio, 1K, 1DK

1LDK apartments are classified as slightly higher rent ranges for single people, but in return they offer superior comfort and spaciousness. So how does it actually differ from other floor plans?

In this chapter, we will compare the average rent for 1LDK, one-room, 1K, and 1DK apartments, while examining the approximate rent for each area and whether you are getting value for your money. This is a must-read for those who want to keep their rent low or prioritize quality of life.

Estimated rent for 1LDK apartments by area

Rent for a 1LDK apartment varies greatly depending on the area. In central Tokyo, it is typical to pay between 100,000 and 150,000 yen, and tends to be even more expensive along the Yamanote Line.

On the other hand, in suburban areas and regional cities, it is possible to find 1LDK properties for around 60,000 to 80,000 yen, so choosing the area is important if you want to keep the rent down while still getting the spaciousness.

Also, there are large price differences depending on proximity to the station and the age of the building, so it is important to clearly define your priorities and then find the balance between location and facilities.

Will the satisfaction you get be commensurate with the rent?

Although the rent for a 1LDK is certainly higher, the satisfaction of living in a 1LDK tends to be higher. The comfort of having a separate bedroom and living/dining/kitchen area, storage space, and a convenient kitchen are some of the benefits that cannot be found in a 1K or one-room apartment.

For people who spend a lot of time at home, having extra space can help reduce stress. However, if you have space that you don't use often, you might feel like it's too spacious and wasteful.

Find the balance between your lifestyle and the cost.

Comments from people who have actually lived in a 1LDK apartment

Living alone in a 1LDK apartment has its appeal because of its spaciousness and comfort, but once you actually live there, whether it suits you or not is a matter of personal preference.

Here we introduce the real voices of people who have lived in a 1LDK apartment. While some say it was "too spacious" or "I couldn't make full use of it," there are also many positive comments such as "It was so comfortable I couldn't give it up" and "It's perfect for remote work."

Comparing both perspectives will give you some clues as to whether a 1LDK is the right home for you.

Experiences of those who felt it was too spacious

"The space was too big" and "cleaning was difficult" are common complaints from people who chose a 1LDK but were unable to make full use of it. In particular, people who spend most of their time outdoors and those with minimalist tendencies often regret "wasting space" and "adding too much furniture."

In addition, some people found that rent and utility costs were higher than expected, raising concerns about the cost-effectiveness of the property. It is important to determine whether the size of the room matches your lifestyle.

Opinions of "Just right/comfortable" group

People who are satisfied with their 1LDK apartments give reasons such as "it's comfortable because the bedroom and living room are separate" and "it gives me space to concentrate even when working from home." Many people who love to cook also say that "the large kitchen is convenient," and they feel that their quality of life has improved.

The ease of inviting friends or loved ones over and the flexibility to accommodate future cohabitation or marriage are also highly rated. Although the cost is high, many people feel that it is worth it.

Advice to avoid regrets

In order to avoid regretting your choice of a 1LDK apartment, it is important to simulate in advance not only the size and facilities, but also "how much you can actually use it."

Consider how you will use the room, think about the furniture and storage you will need, and make a choice that will not waste space. It is also important to estimate the overall cost of living, including rent and utility fees, and make sure it fits your income and expenditure balance.

When viewing a property, be sure to check not only the floor plan but also the actual size and usability of the space.

Summary | How to live comfortably alone in a 1LDK

A 1LDK is a floor plan that allows you to achieve both "comfort" and "space" when living alone. By separating the living room and bedroom, you can create a sense of balance in your life and flexibly respond to working from home and dealing with visitors.

However, rent and utility costs can be high, and you may find the space too big for your liking, so it's important to choose one that fits your lifestyle and budget. Putting some thought into the layout and interior design can make your solo life more comfortable and satisfying.

Careful property selection and effective use of space are the keys to successful 1LDK living.

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