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

1K refers to a floor plan for single people where the living room and kitchen are separated by a door or wall. Compared to a one-room apartment, the kitchen is separate, so cooking smells and sounds are less likely to spread into the living space.

Also, the difference between a 1DK and a 1DK is the size of the dining room, with the dining kitchen area being 8 tatami mats or more. Understanding the differences in floor plans and choosing one that suits your lifestyle is the first step to living comfortably alone.

Definition of 1K and basic layout

1K is an abbreviation for "one room + kitchen" and refers to a structure in which the living room and kitchen are separated by a door or other means.

For example, a typical layout is a 6-tatami Western-style room with a 2-tatami kitchen space. For single people, the living space and cooking space can be separated, which increases privacy and comfort.

In addition, it is easy to place a refrigerator and microwave, and you have more freedom in arranging your furniture. This is a floor plan that is especially recommended for people who love to cook or who place importance on odor control.

What is the difference between this and a one-room apartment?

The biggest difference between a one-room apartment and a 1K apartment is the separate kitchen.

• In a one-room apartment, the kitchen is located inside the room, so smells and noise can be a concern, and the freedom to design the layout is somewhat limited.
• The appeal of a 1K apartment is that the kitchen is separated by a door, making it easy to keep the living space clean. A 1K apartment is ideal for people who cook their own meals frequently or who don't want guests to see their living space.

It is important to choose a layout that suits your lifestyle.

Differences from 1DK and points to consider when choosing

The difference between 1K and 1DK is the size of the DK (dining kitchen).

• A 1DK apartment has a dining space of more than 8 tatami mats and is easier to separate the dining space from the bedroom, making it more spacious.
• 1K apartments are compact yet provide sufficient living space, making them popular among people living alone who want to keep rent down.

If you like to cook your own meals or have a lot of luggage, a 1DK apartment will give you more space, but if you value a minimalist lifestyle, a 1K apartment is more suitable. Choose an apartment based on your needs and budget.

The pros and cons of living in a 1K apartment

1K is a popular floor plan for people living alone, but it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages. The biggest advantage is that the living room and kitchen are separate, which gives a sense of balance to your life and reduces problems with odors and noise.

On the other hand, a 1K apartment requires more space for a hallway and partitions than a one-room apartment, so the room itself may feel a little cramped. It is also important to be mindful of the fact that you will need to be creative with your storage and furniture arrangement.

Choose one that fits your lifestyle and priorities.

The convenience of a separate kitchen

The biggest appeal of a 1K apartment is the convenience of having a separate kitchen from the living room. Cooking odors and smoke are less likely to stick to bedding and clothing, making it easier to maintain a clean living environment.

In addition, you can hide your living space when you have guests, so you can rest assured about your privacy. The kitchen has doors and partitions, so noise and visibility are blocked, making it easier to concentrate on cooking.

For people living alone who cook their own meals, a separate kitchen is a very comfortable and convenient space.

Storage and daily life needs to be improved

In a 1K apartment, you need to be creative in how you use the limited space efficiently. Since storage space is often insufficient, it is key to make good use of under-bed and wall storage.

Also, because the kitchen and living room are separate, traffic paths tend to be longer, so the furniture needs to be arranged with daily movement in mind.

By simplifying the path from the entrance to the living room and the movements necessary for daily life, it is possible to create a comfortable living space even in a one-room apartment.

Ease of soundproofing and odor control

Compared to a one-room apartment, a 1K apartment has a floor plan that makes it easier to soundproof and prevent odors because the living room, kitchen, and entrance are separated by walls and doors.

A particular advantage is that smoke and odors from cooking are less likely to spread to bedrooms and closets, making it easier to maintain a comfortable living space.

In addition, the doors can block out external noise and everyday sounds to a certain extent, making it suitable for people who want a quiet environment. This design is perfect for people living alone who value privacy.

Recommended for living alone! Explanation of floor plans for 1K apartments by type

There are many different types of floor plan for 1K apartments. From a vertically long standard type to a room with a loft that prioritizes storage space, to a type with a separate kitchen, there are plenty of options suitable for living alone.

Each layout has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose one that best suits your lifestyle and priorities.

In this chapter, we will take a closer look at the features and livability of three typical 1K floorplan types.

Standard vertical type

The standard, vertically long 1K apartment is a typical floor plan for people living alone. With the entranceway leading to the kitchen and living room at the back, it is easy to place furniture along the wall, making effective use of the space.

Most of the rooms are around 6 to 8 tatami mats in size, making it possible to create a compact yet comfortable space to live in. The bed, desk, and storage can be arranged in a well-balanced manner, making this a perfect layout for people who are particular about their interior design or for those living alone for the first time.

How to use a loft unit

The layout of this 1K apartment with a loft makes the most of the high ceilings, allowing you to use the limited space in a three-dimensional way.

If you use the loft space as a bedroom or storage space, you can make full use of the living space below. It is ideal for people living alone who are concerned about a lack of storage space, and even if you place a desk or sofa there, it will not feel cramped.

However, you will need to take measures to climb up and down the ladder and deal with the heat in the summer. This unique 1K type is recommended for those who want both functionality and design.

The comfort of a separate kitchen

A 1K apartment with a separate kitchen completely separates the cooking space from the living room, greatly increasing the comfort of the living space. For people who often cook at home, a major benefit is being able to cook without worrying about smells or oil splashes.

Another point is that it is easy to maintain a clean space because it hides the feeling of living even when guests come. It is easy to organize the refrigerator and cooking utensils in the kitchen and the flow of traffic is also easy, so it is ideal for people who want to enjoy cooking even if they live alone.

Layout examples for rooms ranging from 6 to 10 tatami mats in size

1K rooms come in a variety of sizes, from 6 tatami mats to 10 tatami mats, and the arrangement and layout of furniture varies depending on the number of tatami mats. To live comfortably in a limited space, it is important to use zoning and storage techniques according to the purpose. A 6 tatami mat room calls for a minimalist lifestyle, while a 10 tatami mat room can accommodate a sofa and dining set.

Here, we will introduce specific recommended furniture arrangements and space usage for each size of tatami mats, and offer tips on finding a 1K layout that suits you.

6 Tatami 1K: Compact Furniture Arrangement

Since a 6-tatami 1K apartment has limited space, the layout requires minimal furniture.

Placing the bed, desk, storage shelves, etc. against the wall and ensuring a central flow of traffic will make the space feel less cramped. Using low tables and folding furniture will create a functional space that can be used only when needed. Choosing low furniture that does not block the line of sight and bright colors will create an open impression.

This is the perfect configuration for those who want to live comfortably in a small space.

7 Tatami 1K: The perfect balance between relaxation and storage

A 7-tatami 1K apartment offers more furniture options than a 6-tatami 1K apartment, allowing you to maintain a good balance between relaxation space and storage.

In addition to arranging the bed and desk, you can also add a storage shelf and a small sofa to create a comfortable space. If your closet is small, it is convenient to use the storage space under the bed or a clothes rack.

Also, be careful about the height and placement of furniture so as not to cramp the space. This is suitable for single people who want a well-balanced lifestyle.

8-tatami 1K apartment: combining workspace and living space

In an 8-tatami 1K apartment, you can comfortably fit a bed, sofa, and work desk, and separate your living and work spaces.

For those who work or study at home a lot, it is a good idea to secure a workspace in a corner of the room and pay attention to the lighting and chair to create an environment that makes it easy to concentrate. Separating the bed and sofa gently with furniture dividers or curtains will create rhythm in the space.

By unifying the interior theme, even an 8-tatami room can be a comfortable 1K that looks spacious and stylish.

Tips for a spacious 9-tatami room layout

In a 9-tatami 1K apartment, there is plenty of room for arranging furniture, so a layout that takes zoning into consideration is effective. Place the bed, sofa, and desk according to their respective purposes to create a sense of balance in your living space.

For example, if you place the bed and desk diagonally and the TV stand in the center, the flow of movement will be naturally organized. Also, since you can choose large furniture, the key is to choose interior that has both storage capacity and design. It is ideal for people living alone who value relaxation.

10-tatami 1K: Add a sofa and dining area

A 10-tatami 1K apartment is quite spacious for a single person, and it is easy to fit a sofa and a small dining set.

By clearly separating the dining space from the relaxation space, the quality of life will improve. By using an L-shaped sofa and rugs and being conscious of zoning, you can create a stylish and comfortable space. Also, by incorporating furniture with storage, things will not get cluttered and the impression will be neater. This size is also recommended for those who are particular about the interior.

Tips for interior design and layout of a 1K apartment

When living alone in a one-room apartment, how you use the limited space determines how comfortable you can live. The interior layout in particular requires some ingenuity, as the placement of furniture can greatly affect the size and comfort of the room. The placement of the bed can affect traffic flow and visibility, and the layout of the sofa and table can create a relaxing space.

Also, by choosing the right storage furniture, you can hide the signs of clutter and make your space look neat and tidy.

Here we will explain interior design tips to make a 1K apartment look comfortable.

The placement of the bed changes the impression of the space.

The most impactful aspect of a 1K layout is the placement of the bed.

• Placing the bed at the back of the room or against the wall will open up the view and make the room appear larger.
• On the other hand, if you place it in the center, it will disrupt traffic flow and create a feeling of oppression.
• In a long, narrow 1K apartment, placing the bed along the wall and creating an aisle at the foot of the bed makes it easier to move around.
• Choosing a low bed will reduce the feeling of oppression and make it easier for the overall interior to come together.

Just being mindful of placement and height can make a big difference in the impression.

How to place tables and sofas

When adding a table or sofa to a one-room apartment, it is important to arrange them appropriately according to the space.

• Choose a compact low table or two-seater sofa and place them along the wall to keep the central space large.
• If you choose a table that can also be used for dining, you can eat, work and relax all at the same time, making it space-saving and multifunctional.

By carefully arranging your furniture so that there is a reasonable distance between each piece, you can improve traffic flow and create a comfortable space even in a small room.

Hide the signs of everyday life with storage furniture

The way you use storage furniture is important to keep the interior of a one-room apartment from feeling like a living space. By using both visible and hidden storage, you can create a room that looks organized.

for example,

• For a neat and tidy look, you can store your favorite accessories and books on the open shelves and daily necessities and home appliances in the closed storage.
• Utilizing under-bed storage and wall storage will help keep floor space large and create more spaciousness.
• By using the same colour and design, the whole room will look more cohesive and sophisticated.

Points to check when viewing a property

When choosing a 1K rental property, viewing the property is an important step to ensure a comfortable life for yourself. It is a valuable opportunity to see the actual sense of space and the surrounding environment in person, which cannot be understood from photos and floor plans alone. In particular, there are many points to check, such as how to read the floor plan, the image of furniture arrangement, sunlight, noise levels, and the condition of the facilities.

Here, we will explain in detail the important check items that are often overlooked when viewing a property, and help you choose the right 1K apartment.

What to read from the floor plan

By carefully checking the floor plan before viewing, you can check out the room efficiently.

The points to note are:

• Kitchen and storage location
• Door opening direction
• For example, the location of windows and balconies.

Especially in a one-room apartment, the independence of the kitchen and the flow of daily life are directly related to comfort. If you consider the space for furniture placement and the location of electrical outlets in advance, it will be easier to visualize the actual layout. By acquiring the ability to read and interpret floor plans, you will be able to check the layout on site more smoothly.

Please check sunlight, noise and facilities

When viewing a 1K property, there are three important things you should check: sunlight, noise, and facilities.

• When it comes to sunlight, you should consider not only the direction and size of the window, but also the influence of surrounding buildings. Even if your home faces south, the sunlight may be blocked by neighboring buildings.
• Properties near train stations or along major roads have the risk of noise pollution, so it is recommended that you check the room with the windows open and at different times of the day.
• It is important to check things like the air conditioning, plumbing, location of electrical outlets, and storage space while imagining how it will be used.

How to live comfortably alone in a 1K apartment

A 1K apartment is a standard floor plan for single people, but to keep the limited space comfortable, it is essential to make adjustments to suit your lifestyle. It is important to understand the costs of living, such as rent and utilities, and then choose the kitchen equipment and size based on whether you tend to cook at home or eat out. Also, if you are considering living together in a 1K apartment, you need to be aware of the differences in space and lifestyle.

In this chapter, we will explain in detail practical points to make living alone more comfortable.

Estimated rent, utility fees and living costs

The average rent for a 1K apartment varies by region, but in urban areas it is around 60,000 to 90,000 yen, and in rural areas it is generally around 40,000 to 60,000 yen. Utilities costs are 10,000 to 15,000 yen per month, and including communication and food costs, the average monthly living costs are around 100,000 to 130,000 yen.

When choosing a property, check not only the rent but also whether there are maintenance fees and renewal fees. Also, older properties may have cheaper rent but higher utility costs, so the overall cost-effectiveness is important. Setting a reasonable budget is the first step to living comfortably.

Kitchen choices for those who cook at home and those who eat out

For people who value cooking at home, the kitchen facilities in a 1K apartment will greatly affect how comfortable it is to live in.

Before you buy, check whether you need an induction or gas stove, the size of the sink, and whether you have a cooking space. A two-burner stove will greatly increase cooking efficiency and is recommended for people who love to cook.

On the other hand, if you eat out a lot, a compact kitchen is fine and you should prioritize the size of the living room. It is important to find a balance between the ease of use of the kitchen and the living space to suit your lifestyle.

Is it possible to live together in a 1K apartment? Things to be aware of

Although it is possible for two people to live together in a one-room apartment, certain conditions and ingenuity are required to live comfortably.

First of all, if the room is around 6 tatami mats in size, putting two beds and storage space will create a feeling of oppression and make it difficult to maintain private space.

In addition, there is only one kitchen, bathroom, and toilet, so if your daily routine and usage times overlap, it can be a source of stress. People who are sensitive to noise and lifestyle habits should be careful.

Living together in a 1K apartment is suitable for short-term temporary housing, but if you're looking to live in the long term, we recommend a 1DK or larger apartment.

Summary | 1K is a balanced floor plan for living alone

A 1K is a well-balanced floor plan that is ideal for living alone. The private space and kitchen are more clearly separated than in a one-room apartment, and it is more comfortable as it blocks out smells and noise.

In addition, if you choose a size of 6 to 10 tatami mats, you can freely arrange the furniture and coordinate the interior to suit your lifestyle. It is also affordable, making it a popular floor plan for those living alone for the first time or those who want to live cost-effectively in the city center.

If you choose an apartment taking into consideration key points such as traffic flow, storage space, and sunlight, you can achieve a comfortable and functional lifestyle even in a one-room apartment.