If you’ve been browsing property listings, you’ve probably seen the terms “studio apartment” and “1-bedroom flat/apartment” pop up a lot. They might sound similar, but they work quite differently in day-to-day life. The differences aren’t just about the number of rooms—they affect how you live, how much you spend, and even how easy the place is to sell or rent later.
What is a Studio Apartment?
A studio apartment is usually a single, self-contained living space that combines most functions into one room. You sleep, cook, and relax within the same open-plan area, while the bathroom is the exception—it’s separate and enclosed.
Unlike bedsits, which are single rooms in shared homes and often have shared bathrooms or kitchens, studios always offer a private bathroom and kitchen area. The term “studio” in property marketing signals better design and self-containment; “bedsit” is a legal and planning term for shared accommodation, and the two are not interchangeable.
Modern studios make clever use of space, with built-in storage, fold-out beds, or partitions such as bookcases to give a sense of separation.
Studios aren’t all the same size. In city centres, a studio could be as small as 20m², especially in older converted buildings. However, new builds in England must meet the Nationally Described Space Standard (NDSS), which sets a minimum of 37m² for most one-person homes if adopted by the local council or required by permit. Smaller studios tend to be older conversions, sometimes exempt from these rules.
Typical features include:
- One large multi-purpose room
- Kitchenette or compact kitchen area
- Separate bathroom with shower or bath
- Minimal internal walls
What is a 1-Bedroom Apartment/Flat?
A one-bedroom flat has a separate bedroom and a distinct living area. The kitchen might be separate, or part of the living space—this depends on layout. The key difference is a proper sleeping area with its own door, giving privacy.
One-bedroom flats vary in style. In newer developments, you’ll often find open-plan kitchens with a living room. In older buildings, each room may be fully divided with doors for a traditional feel.
Typical features include:
- Bedroom with a door and its own space
- Living room (separate or open plan with the kitchen)
- Kitchen (full-sized or compact)
- Separate bathroom
- More storage options than a studio
Size and Space Differences
A studio can feel snug. Most modern builds range around 20–35m², but in popular city locations, micro-studios can be even smaller (usually in older conversions). New-build studios must be at least 37m² if NDSS applies.
A 1-bedroom flat usually ranges from 40–55m² in modern developments, though older properties can be larger.
The extra space makes a practical difference. In a studio, the bed is visible from the sofa and kitchen, which can make the room feel busier. In a 1-bedroom flat, you can close the bedroom door—reducing noise and creating a distinct sleeping zone. More space means more furniture options and easier separation between work, rest, and leisure.
Privacy and Lifestyle
Privacy works differently in these two setups. In a studio, everything is visible whenever you have guests. If you live alone and rarely host, that might not bother you. If you often have friends or family to stay, a 1-bedroom feels more comfortable and allows guests to sleep in the living space without being among your personal things.
Couples sometimes find studios challenging. There’s less opportunity for quiet time alone and nowhere to escape during calls or work-from-home video meetings.
Cost Differences
The price gap between a studio and a 1-bedroom flat can be significant, especially in areas with high rental demand.
- Studios are cheaper to rent or buy than 1-bed flats in the same building or neighbourhood.
- Utility bills may be lower in a smaller space, as there’s less volume to heat.
- Council tax bands are usually the same, but if you live alone in either type, you may qualify for the Single Person Discount (25% off).
While studios can seem like bargains, the price per square metre is often higher. You pay less overall, but the space you get costs more compared to a larger flat.
Storage and Organisation
Storage is often the biggest challenge in a studio. Every item needs a home; clutter builds up fast.
Typical studio solutions:
- Built-in wardrobes
- Multi-purpose furniture with hidden storage
- Vertical shelving to use wall height
A 1-bedroom flat offers more walls and corners to hide storage units without them taking over the main space. Under-bed storage can be hidden in a separate bedroom, keeping the living space tidy.
Resale and Rental Appeal
If buying, resale value matters. One-bedroom flats have a broader buyer pool—appealing to singles, couples, or small households. Studios attract mostly single buyers, young professionals, or investors, so the pool is smaller.
For rentals, studios attract steady demand in city centres and near universities. However, tenant turnover can be higher, as many people outgrow the space in a year or two.
Work-from-Home Considerations
Remote working has changed what people look for. A 1-bedroom can offer a workspace in either the bedroom or living room. In a studio, your desk is often just steps from the bed, making it harder to switch off.
Occasional home working can work in a studio, using foldaway desks or well-placed shelves. But if you’re remote full-time, a one-bedroom might offer more comfort and separation.
Other Considerations
- Noise control is tricky in a studio. If your fridge is loud, or your neighbour’s television seeps through, you can’t close a door to shut it out. In a one-bedroom flat, sleeping areas are better protected. If the bedroom faces a quieter side of the building, sleep quality improves.
- Studios are quick to clean—you can vacuum the whole place in minutes. In a one-bedroom, cleaning takes longer, but you can let one room slide for a day without it affecting the main comfort.
- Your choice may depend on the location. In central areas, a studio might get you a desirable postcode for less. In the suburbs or less dense areas, the price gap narrows and a 1-bedroom may fit your budget.
Who Might Choose a Studio?
Studios suit:
- People living alone who spend little time at home
- Those wanting a central location for less
- Minimalists
- First-time buyers trying to get on the ladder
Who Might Choose a 1-Bedroom Flat?
A 1-bedroom suits:
- Couples or housemates who want separate sleeping and living space
- Home workers needing a dedicated desk area
- People planning to stay long-term
- Buyers wanting better resale prospects
Legal and Planning Considerations
Both types should ideally meet NDSS (minimum 37m² for new builds), but older conversions may be smaller and still legal.
If you’re buying leasehold, check the length of the lease and service charges—sometimes high running costs in serviced buildings can offset a lower purchase price.
Bedsits are regulated separately under HMO laws and are not the same as studios.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the choice isn’t about logic or price, but how the space feels. Spend time in each during viewings—a compact studio can be cosy and manageable, while a 1-bedroom feels like a full home with breathing room. Your day-to-day habits will tell you which you’re more likely to enjoy.
