Condo living is challenging, more so if you live in a studio unit that measures 25sqm or less. While some welcome the thought of living in a compact space with open arms (it can be quite cozy, for sure!), there are those who are having second thoughts about living in such a small unit. Aside from worrying if a bed can fit in the space, one of the main concerns is storage—especially if you’re the type who loves hoarding.
Lucky for condo dwellers, many home stores are now offering quality space-saving furniture pieces that let you make the most of every inch of available space in a studio unit. “When shopping for furniture for studio units, you need to prioritize shopping for your bed. A proper dining table is often overlooked as well and you shouldn’t be eating your dinner from a low coffee table because that’s sad and you’ll hurt your back,” shares interior designer Rachelle Medina.
Before you head to the nearest home store to look for the right pieces, make sure you measure the area where you intend to place your furniture. Bring these measurements with you and make sure compare the measurements of the furniture you’re eyeing so you’re assured that it will fit in your space. “Almost every furniture store sells great space-saving furniture. The more affordable ones can be bought at BLIMS, SM Home, The Landmark, Wilcon Depot, AllHome, SB Furniture, and Furniture Republic,” suggests Rachelle.
Get ready to transform your studio unit into a welcoming home with these essentials:
Bed or Sofa? How about a sofa bed?
“If you choose a sofa bed option, you have to make sure that it’s comfortable to sleep on because you can’t compromise a good night’s sleep just because you like the looks of the sofa,” Rachelle explains.
TRY: Viola Sofa Bed, P15,998, BLIMS Fine Furniture
The Viola Sofa Bed from BLIMS has a chic neutral color that can complete any interior style. It also has a pillow top and two cushions that make it extra inviting. Plus points for the wooden legs—it helps create an illusion of more space!
A wall-mounted drop leaf table
Rachelle suggests getting a small, narrow dining table that can accommodate two people to complete a compact dining nook in a studio unit. You can also maximize the available vertical space by opting for a wall-mounted bar counter or a drop leaf table.
TRY: Norbo Wall Mounted Drop Leaf Table, P3,999, Furniture Source
The Norbo table can be folded when not in use to free up the space in the dining and kitchen areas of your unit. You can pair it with dining chairs with slim legs or stackable seating pieces that can be easily stored away as well.
A storage ottoman
It can be difficult to invite friends over if you don’t have enough seating pieces in your unit. The solution? Storage ottomans! These multipurpose pieces can accommodate guests while helping you keep clutter at bay. Use it to store books, throws, and other knickknacks.
TRY: Ottoman Brown Storage, P1,299.75, SM Home
A pretty shelf
If you’re fond of displaying photographs and collectibles, you can do so without sacrificing space. A slim ladder shelf is your best bet as it can hold small plants, frames, and figurines. This can fit in the living area or in any empty corner in your studio unit.
TRY: Scandi Ladder Shelf, P3,900, Furniture Source
Hanging cabinets for your belongings
Free up precious floor space with hanging cabinets you can install in the living area and kitchen. These storage solutions can be used in storing different items—from clothes and shoes to panty and cleaning supplies, to name a few.
TRY: Maximus WC30-120 Hanging Cabinet, P6,948, SB Furniture
Need extra cash to fund your furniture shopping? A personal loan offers easy payment schemes. Compare and contrast loan rates of different banks with the FN Loan Calculator.
