What is a 1K? Explaining the difference between a 1K and a one-room apartment

When searching for an apartment for the first time when moving or living alone, many people often come across the terms "1K" and "one room." Although both may look similar in layout, there are actually big differences in terms of livability and daily life. If you don't fully understand the structural differences, such as the facilities, ease of use of space, and privacy, you may end up regretting your decision later.

Here we will explain in detail the differences between 1K and one-room apartments, as well as their respective characteristics.

Differences between 1K and one-room apartments

1K and one-room apartments are both popular types of floor plan for single people, but there is a clear difference in their structure. In a one-room apartment, the kitchen and living room are connected together and there is no door separating them, so while it has an open feeling, it can easily feel lived-in.

On the other hand, a major feature of a 1K apartment is that the kitchen and living room are separated by a door or partition. This structure makes it difficult for cooking smells and sounds to reach the living room, making it easy to create a sense of balance in your life. The characteristics of each are as follows.

Studio

• The kitchen and living room are combined
• There are no doors or partitions, giving it an open feel
• Living and cooking spaces are mixed together

1K

• The kitchen and living room are separated
• Smells and sounds are less likely to travel to the living space
• It's easy to maintain privacy and live a fulfilling life

Since the arrangement of furniture and the division of living space will differ, it is important to choose a room that suits your lifestyle.

What are the facilities and space of a 1K apartment like?

In a 1K apartment, the kitchen is usually located just inside the entrance, and is connected to the living room through a partition door. The kitchen is equipped with a mini-fridge and a one- or two-burner stove, and has the minimum facilities needed for cooking. In addition, many apartments have a unit bath with a combined bathroom and toilet, so measures against humidity and odors are also important.

However, storage space is limited, so you will need to be creative with how you use the closets and shelves. A room of around 6 to 8 tatami mats may feel a bit cramped if you add furniture such as a bed, table, and TV.

Depending on the location of the air conditioner, it will affect how you feel after a bath or how you deal with the heat in the summer, so it's something you want to check when viewing the property. However, even in a compact space, if you are conscious of daily activity and arrange the furniture in an ingenious way, it is possible to ensure a comfortable life.

How to choose a floor plan that suits your lifestyle

When choosing a floor plan, it is important to think carefully about your lifestyle and what kind of life you want to live. For example, for people who often cook at home or spend a lot of time at home, a one-room apartment with a separate kitchen and living room may be a more stress-free option.

On the other hand, if you are just going to use it as a place to sleep, a simple one-room apartment will probably not be a problem. It is important to determine which layout is most convenient for you based on the time you spend at home and your lifestyle.

Also, if you have a lot of luggage or are particular about storage, you should definitely check the size and layout of the storage space. Even in a 1K apartment, if there is not much storage space, the whole room will likely feel cramped.

"What do I really need?" "What do I value and where am I willing to compromise?"

By choosing a room in this way that takes into consideration your lifestyle, your level of satisfaction with your life can change dramatically.

Reasons why 1K apartments are popular and their benefits

1K apartments are very common as rental properties for single people, and are one of the floor plans that are often chosen by first-time apartment hunters. In particular, they are chosen by many people because of their low rent, good location, and the availability of basic amenities. Compared to one-room apartments, 1K apartments offer more freedom in living, and are also suitable for people who want to add variety to their living space.

Here, we will explain in detail the specific reasons and benefits why 1K apartments are often chosen.

Low rent and many rental properties available

It is no exaggeration to say that the biggest attraction of 1K apartments is their low rent. Even in urban areas, there are a relatively large number of apartments with rents of less than 60,000 yen, and they tend to be chosen by people living alone who want to save money.

If you search for a 1LDK or 1DK apartment in the same area, the price will often be 10,000 to 20,000 yen higher. If you don't care about the facilities or age of the building, it's easy to find a property for around 50,000 yen per month, making it a good choice for people who want to keep initial costs down, or for students and new graduates with limited income.

Another advantage of 1K is that there are many properties available, making it easy to compare rental information that meets your requirements, such as areas close to your desired station.

Suitable for simple living and minimalist lifestyles

A 1K floor plan is designed with the bare minimum of space and functionality, making it ideal for people who want to live a simple life. By limiting the amount of storage and furniture and choosing only what is truly necessary for life, you can create a comfortable living space that doesn't feel cramped.

Recently, many space-saving interior items for one-room apartments have been released, such as compact furniture sets that combine a bed and storage shelves, which are perfect for people who want to live without accumulating possessions.

It also reduces the effort required for cleaning and tidying up, giving you more free time in your life.

Recommended for the following people:

• People who are minimalistic and don't own many things
• People who want a life that is easy to clean and organize
• People who want to keep their lifestyle compact

Compared to a one-room apartment, a 1K apartment is a good choice for people who want a simple yet comfortable life with more space. For those who want to choose only the essentials for their life, the limitations of a 1K apartment can actually make it more comfortable.

It is relatively easy to find properties near stations and recently built properties.

1K properties are widely available, and are easy to find at relatively reasonable rents, even in areas close to stations or in recently built buildings. Especially in urban areas, there tends to be more 1Ks in supply than studio apartments, making them an easy choice for people who are particular about the location and age of the building.

Another benefit is that you can gather information efficiently by using a property search site, which makes it easy to find a room that meets your requirements.

The benefits include:

• Find plenty of 1K apartments near train stations
• Many of the newer properties are within affordable prices.
• It is easy to narrow down the rooms that meet your requirements on property websites, expanding your options.

For those who value accessibility and newness, the large number of 1K properties is a reassuring point. For those who are living alone for the first time and are worried about finding a property, the ease of searching is a major source of peace of mind.

Should I avoid 1K apartments? The disadvantages felt in real life

1K apartments are often chosen because of low rent and a wide selection of properties, but many people end up regretting it after actually living there. There are many inconveniences and stresses that you only realize after living there, especially the small size of the room, lack of storage space, noise and odor issues, and other problems that directly affect your daily life.

Here, we will introduce some of the common disadvantages of 1K apartments and delve into the reasons why people say you should avoid them.

Feeling oppressed due to small space and lack of storage space

Because 1K apartments have a compact floor plan, they tend to have little living space and tend to feel cramped. Living rooms are generally around 6 to 8 tatami mats in size, and it is not rare for the space to feel cramped when a bed, table, storage furniture, etc. are placed in them. In addition, many properties have small or no closets, and many people complain that they have difficulty storing clothes and daily necessities.

The following concerns may be mentioned:

• There is not enough storage space, so things are exposed and tend to get messy
• When furniture is placed, the aisle becomes narrow and it becomes difficult to move around.
• You may feel uncomfortable because of the pressure

For people who have a lot of things or who want to be particular about the interior, the small size of a 1K apartment can be a major source of stress.

Layout that makes it difficult to prepare meals and arrange furniture

In 1K apartments, the kitchen is often located in a small space near the entrance, making it difficult to cook at home. With only one burner and almost no cooking space, cooking can be stressful. In addition, arranging the furniture can be difficult, and it takes ingenuity to balance the bed, table, and storage in the limited space.

It's easy to have these kinds of problems.

• No place to put your cutting board or utensils while cooking
• Having trouble finding space for a refrigerator or microwave
• Depending on the furniture arrangement, traffic flow can be blocked.

For people who like to cook their own meals and keep things tidy, the layout of a 1K apartment may seem more inconvenient than they expected.

Problems with everyday sounds and privacy

Due to the structure of the 1K apartment, the kitchen and entrance are close to the living room, which means that sounds and smells from outside can easily get inside the room. Also, compared to a one-room apartment, even though there is a partition, the soundproofing performance is not necessarily good, so you may be bothered by the sounds of your neighbors' daily lives. Furthermore, if the structure makes it easy to see inside the room from the entrance, it may be difficult to maintain privacy when guests come over. Especially for women living alone, security and a sense of security in their living space are important, so depending on the structure of the 1K apartment, there may be times when you feel uneasy.

The main disadvantages are:

• I am easily bothered by noises from next door and conversations outside.
• Some structures are prone to trapping odors and moisture.
• Many properties have floor plans that make it difficult to ensure privacy

For those who value a quiet environment and private space, especially women, it is important to carefully check the layout of the entrance, bathroom, and rooms, as well as soundproofing, when viewing the property.

Causes of discomfort in living due to structure and facilities

A 1K apartment may seem convenient at first glance, but when you actually live there, small inconveniences pile up and you may find it more difficult to live in than you expected.

In particular, there are properties where the air conditioner is not placed in the right position, where humidity and odors tend to build up in the unit bath, and where the ventilation fan performance is weak. Due to these differences in structure and old models, you may suffer from temperature differences such as hot summers and cold winters.

Furthermore, if the washing machine, bathroom, or toilet are placed inefficiently, or the facilities are difficult to use, it will affect your daily meals and lifestyle.

If the layout of the room is outdated and the facilities are not easily usable, comfort is likely to be compromised.

Stress factors in layout, storage, and daily life

One of the disadvantages is that there is little freedom in layout, such as limited locations for placing furniture and little storage space to begin with.

These small inconveniences fill the room and lower the overall satisfaction level.

• Restrictions on daily activities cause stress
• Storage and furniture arrangements are limited and cannot be flexibly changed.
• They are vulnerable to temperature differences between summer and winter, and it is difficult to adjust them with air conditioning.
• Odors and moisture tend to build up, and ventilation is poor.

For these reasons, those who prioritize comfort are likely to find a 1LDK or a larger floor plan more comfortable than a 1K apartment.

When choosing a floor plan, it is important not to limit yourself to one site or category, but to compare multiple pages and make the choice that suits you best.

Comparing the features of 1K, 1LDK, and one-room apartments

1K, 1LDK, and one-room apartments are all popular floorplans for people living alone, but there are clear differences in size, structure, and ease of use. To choose the floorplan that's right for you, it's important to correctly understand the characteristics of each. In particular, the living space and the level of amenities are factors that directly affect your daily life, so if you decide based solely on appearance or low rent, there will be a big difference in comfort.

Here, we will explain in detail the basic differences and characteristics of 1K, 1LDK, and one-room apartments.

Differences in floor plan types and living areas

There are clear differences between 1K, 1LDK, and one-room apartments in terms of floor plan and living area.

• A 1K apartment has a separate kitchen and living room, and the living room is typically 6 to 8 tatami mats in size.
• In a one-room apartment, the kitchen and living room are connected, and since there are no partitions, it feels open, but the downside is that it can easily come across as lived-in.
• A 1LDK consists of a living/dining room and a bedroom, and has a large floor area, making it recommended for people who want to use multiple spaces.

Characteristics of each area

• 1K: 20-25㎡/Compact but with partitions
• Studio: Approximately 18 to 23 m² / Open but integrated living space
• 1LDK: 30-40㎡ or more / Spacious and comfortable living

To live comfortably, it is important to choose a size that suits your possessions and lifestyle.

Which one is better for living alone?

The floor plan that is suitable for living alone depends on the person's lifestyle and priorities.

1K and one-room apartments are popular among people who want to keep rent as low as possible or who are happy with the minimum amount of space.

On the other hand, for people who do a lot of work from home or who want to prioritize a balanced lifestyle, a layout with separate rooms such as a 1LDK is ideal.

Suitable for different lifestyles

• 1K/One-room apartment: Great for those who value value for money/eat out a lot/don't have much luggage
• 1LDK: For people who spend a lot of time at home, have a lot of hobby equipment, or want to separate their daily activities

The trick to choosing a room you won't regret is to base your choice not only on the facilities and ease of use, but also on how you want to live.

What is the balance between rent, facilities, and ease of use?

When choosing an apartment, the main things to consider are the rent, the facilities, and the ease of use of the layout. Achieving a good balance between these three is the key to living comfortably for a long time. While 1K and one-room apartments are cheap, easy to find, and have a wide variety of properties, they often have minimal kitchens and storage facilities, which can leave you dissatisfied with the ease of use.

Although 1LDK apartments tend to be more satisfying in terms of size and facilities, the rent also tends to be higher. The key point in choosing the right room for you is to find a balance between comfort and cost.

Characteristics of people who are and are not suited to a 1K apartment

1K apartments are popular for people living alone, but they are not perfect for everyone. In many cases, people find that the apartment is more inconvenient than they expected after actually living there, because it doesn't suit their lifestyle. It's important to decide whether a 1K apartment is right for you based on the amount of stuff you have, the time you spend at home, your lifestyle priorities, and other factors.

Here, we will introduce the specific characteristics of people who are suitable and those who are not suitable for a 1K apartment, and give you tips on how to choose one so you don't regret it later.

Not suitable for people with a lot of luggage or who spend a lot of time at home

Since 1K apartments are compact, people with a lot of belongings may feel cramped due to lack of storage space. Also, if there are too many furniture and appliances, it becomes difficult to secure traffic flow, which can cause inconvenience in daily life.

For people who work from home or spend a lot of time at home, being in a small space all the time can be stressful and make it difficult to change your mood. It is important to determine the size and layout of a room not simply based on whether it is livable, but whether it is comfortable to live in.

If you mainly eat out and only want to live, this might be the place for you

On the other hand, for people who don't cook much and just want to sleep, a 1K apartment is a very reasonable choice. The rent is relatively cheap and there are many properties in good locations, such as near train stations, so it is particularly suitable for people who prioritize commuting or who mainly eat out.

For people who don't have many belongings and aren't too picky about the interior or space, this layout has enough space and functionality. If it meets all the conditions for a comfortable life, it can also be a good value for money option.

Tips for choosing the right fit for your lifestyle

If you choose a room based on simple criteria like "the bigger the room, the more comfortable it is" or "the cheaper the better," you may end up regretting it because it doesn't suit your lifestyle. The important thing is to clarify how you want to spend your time in the room and what you want to prioritize.

The trick to choosing an apartment is to work backwards from the amount of belongings, daily activity, time spent at home, hobbies, habits, etc. to calculate the size and facilities you need. Just knowing in advance the characteristics of people for whom a 1K apartment is suitable and those for whom it is not will give you a big hint to finding your ideal home.

Check points to avoid regrets when choosing a floor plan

When choosing a new property, if you only look at the floor plan and size, you may end up feeling like you made a mistake when you actually live there. It's important to pay attention to small things like traffic flow, storage space, and ease of arranging furniture. Here, we'll introduce some specific checkpoints you should know to choose a room you won't regret.

Points to look out for when viewing a property

When viewing an apartment, it is important not only to check whether the room is clean, but also to check it from the perspective of what it will be like to actually live there. Specifically, things to check include sunlight, ventilation, noise from neighboring rooms or upstairs, the location of electrical outlets, and how easily the doors can be opened and closed.

Also, things like the "oppressive feeling" and "smell" of a space can only be confirmed in person, which cannot be determined from photos or drawings. Use your five senses to determine whether or not you would be able to live comfortably in that space.

Points to note regarding storage, equipment, stoves, entrances, etc.

In a compact floor plan such as a one-room apartment, the functionality of storage and equipment plays a major role in how easy it is to live in. Storage is not just about "if it fits in, that's OK," but also about "how it can be used" and "whether it interferes with traffic flow."

Also, don't overlook small details such as the number and position of the stove, the size of the entrance and shoe storage space, and the distance of the bathroom. The key is to judge the equipment based on "ease of use" rather than appearance.

Tips for choosing furniture and beds based on their placement

When choosing a property, it is essential to consider whether your furniture will fit and whether it will interfere with traffic flow. Especially in a one-room apartment, the space is limited, so how you arrange your bed, desk, storage shelves, etc. can make a big difference in how comfortable your life is.

When viewing the property, imagine the size of the furniture and check whether there is flexibility in the layout. The key to making a choice you won't regret is to simulate how you will live with the furniture in place.

What are some recommended floor plans other than 1K?

If you feel that a 1K apartment is too small or that you want to live a more comfortable life, we recommend considering other floor plan types such as 1LDK and 1DK. The best room for you will vary depending on your lifestyle, the amount of belongings you have, and the amount of time you spend at home, so it's important to determine the size and facilities you need.

Characteristics and Advantages of 1LDK/1DK Apartments

A 1LDK apartment has a separate living room and bedroom, making it easy to balance your daily routine and ideal for working from home. Storage space is relatively ample, making it a great option for people with lots of belongings.

On the other hand, a 1DK apartment has a separate dining/kitchen area and living room, and in many cases the rent is lower than a 1LDK, making it a good balance between cost and comfort.

Creativity to ensure a comfortable living space

To make your home more comfortable, it is important not only to choose a spacious floor plan, but also to consider the layout of your furniture, how you use storage, and how your daily life flows. By reconsidering the placement of your bed or the size of your table, you may find that a space that you once felt was cramped can be used more spaciously than you expected.

In addition, by utilizing wall storage and partition furniture, you can create a sense of balance in the space while maintaining a comfortable living environment.

Tips for consulting and searching with real estate companies

When considering floor plans other than 1K, you need to be creative when consulting with real estate agents and using property search sites.

If you organize your specific conditions into a set, such as "size must be at least x tatami mats," "separate bathroom and toilet," "separate sink," and "ample storage space," it will be easier for real estate companies to suggest an apartment that meets your needs.

Also, it is important to prioritize your desired conditions. It is difficult to find a property that meets all of your conditions, so if you organize your "absolute non-negotiables" and "areas you can compromise on," the efficiency of your search will change dramatically.

Furthermore, when searching, it is easier to narrow down your options by using conditions such as "available period," "category (for singles, for couples, etc.)," ​​"age of building," "nearby station," and "area with many pages." Recently, there has been an increase in convenient sites that allow you to save search conditions, so we recommend checking them regularly.

Summary | Before choosing a 1K apartment, consider your lifestyle

Choosing the floor plan is an important decision point that directly affects the ease of living. Although a 1K is a compact and affordable option, some people may find it inconvenient or cramped. It is important to compare it with other floor plans such as one-room, 1DK, and 1LDK, and to determine which room suits your lifestyle and values.

Summary of this article and how to choose

• 1K and one-room apartments have similar but different floor plans, and there are differences in the facilities and how the space is divided.
• A 1K apartment is separated by a door, which has the advantage that smells from the toilet or kitchen are less likely to spread into the living room.
• On the other hand, it requires ingenuity in how you use storage and space, and it is true that it may not be suitable depending on the user's lifestyle.

In this article, we have listed the differences in floor plans and information on the room's facilities, and have specifically introduced the factors that affect livability. In addition to the rent, location, and floor plan, don't forget to also consider "how much space and functionality you need" when making your selection.

Important things to know when choosing a home you won't regret

The first step to avoiding regret is to think about what is important to you, rather than choosing a home because it is cheap or has a common layout. A home is an important place where you spend every day. Comfort and less stress lead to better physical and mental health.

Imagine your ideal lifestyle and carefully choose a home that will bring it to fruition.

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