Should You Choose a Studio or One-Bedroom Apartment in Independent Living?

Where you live in retirement isn’t just about the community, it’s about the space you call home every day, including the layout, the feel, and the way it fits into your routine. For many people considering independent living, one of the first important decisions is whether a studio or one-bedroom apartment makes more sense for their lifestyle.

Choosing between studio and one-bedroom apartments isn’t always obvious at first glance. Each option has trade-offs. This guide will walk through what sets them apart, the perks and limitations of each, and factors to consider before making your choice.

Understanding Independent Living Apartments

Independent living is built around simplicity and comfort. The apartments in these communities are built to take the pain out of home ownership but still offer you privacy and independence. You don’t have to stick to a tight schedule, and you don’t lose your own space.

With very few exceptions, independent living apartments include:

• Safety features like walk-in showers and emergency pull cords
• Maintenance-free living
• Access to services like housekeeping and meals
• Floor plans tailored for senior living

Some of the more popular choices include studio apartments and one-bedroom apartments. The one that’s right for you depends on how you want to live.

What Is a Studio Apartment in Independent Living?

A studio apartment combines your living room, bedroom, and kitchenette into a single space. While typically smaller in size, these units include private bathrooms, with the rest of the apartment designed as one open living area.

Independent living studio apartments are often the smallest sizes offered. That’s not to say they feel cramped. With the right arrangement and furniture, they can be cozy and comfortable. Many are thoughtfully built to allow plenty of natural light in, with built-in storage and room for a small table or seating.

Benefits of Choosing a Studio Apartment:

• Easier to maintain. Less square footage means less cleaning and fewer items to manage.
• Encourages community use. If you have a smaller room, you can likely be more active in communal spaces, such as lounges, dining rooms and activity centers.
• Good fit for solo residents. If you are single and don’t require much space, a studio can offer all you’re looking for with few extras you don’t really need.

Couples may be able to live together in studios, but whether that works out will depend on lifestyle and how much time you plan to spend in your apartment (as opposed to using community amenities).

What Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Independent Living?

A one-bedroom apartment has a separate bedroom, so there are more specific places to relax, sleep and entertain. The living space and kitchenette remain tight, but the extra separation allows for increased freedom.

Some one-bedroom layouts include walk-in closets, balconies or small dining nooks. While there is variation from community to community, these apartments feel more like traditional homes.

Benefits of Choosing a One-Bedroom Apartment:

• More privacy. You can sleep in one room and watch TV or read in another without disturbing your loved ones.
• More space for guests. If you enjoy having the grandchildren or friends visit, it’s easier to make room for them in a one-bedroom.
• Feels like a home. The layout may feel more familiar, especially if you’re used to multi-room living.
• Better for couples. Having separate spaces can make daily routines smoother when two people are sharing the space.

Key Factors to Consider Before Deciding

Everyone’s situation is unique. Before you decide between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment, do yourself a favor and take a little time to consider your lifestyle, habits and expectations. 

Below are some key factors to consider:

Consider How Much Time You’ll Spend Inside The Apartment

Are you someone who likes open floor plans and simplicity, or do you prefer to have separation between your sleep and living space? Consider how much time you’ll spend inside the apartment compared to other places around the community, including attending community events.

Will You Be Living Alone or With a Loved One?

A studio may feel perfect for a single resident who travels light. But if you’re living with a spouse or loved one, a separate bedroom can be critical to your day-to-day comfort.

How Important is Entertaining?

Do you host guests regularly? Do you need a space to accommodate overnight visitors, or do most visits happen in common areas? A one-bedroom can offer more flexibility for hosting.

What Are Your Routines?

If you and your loved one keep different sleep schedules, watch different TV shows, or need space for quiet activities, a one-bedroom layout could prevent conflicts.

Which Option Works Best for Couples?

Most couples choose one-bedroom apartments for a reason. The added space helps with routines, privacy, and comfort. Separate spaces to relax can help keep couples in sync without being on top of each other all the time.

That said, some couples prefer simplicity. If you’re both used to living in the light, spending most of your time in common areas, and don’t need much room, a studio may work just fine.

It comes down to habits. Do you enjoy your own space during the day? Do you need room for separate hobbies or workspaces? Answering these questions can make the choice clearer.

Questions to Ask Before You Choose

When touring communities or speaking with a staff member, ask:

• Can we tour both apartment types?
• What is the square footage of each option?
• Are there storage options if we downsize?
• How available are one-bedroom apartments?
• Can we customize the layout with our own furniture?
• Are couples allowed in studio apartments?

Asking direct questions helps you get real answers about what life will look like in each space.

Think Beyond the Floor Plan

Your apartment is only part of the picture. In independent living, the community becomes an extension of your home. You’ll likely spend time in:

• Dining areas
• Game or media rooms
• Walking paths and courtyards
• Fitness spaces or hobby rooms
• Lounges or shared kitchens

If you plan to take full advantage of these areas, you may not need as much private space. But if you like quiet time, an extra room inside your apartment can be a bonus.

Downsizing Doesn’t Mean Sacrificing Comfort

Many lose sleep over the prospect of living in a reduced space. But through clever storage, multi-use furniture, and thoughtful decorating, even a studio apartment can feel spacious. Shelving, under-bed storage and wall-mounted lights can help you maximize your square footage.

Bring only what you need, and keep what makes the space feel personal. That way, even a compact layout feels like home.

Want a Home That Matches Your Lifestyle in Retirement? Schedule a Tour at Asher Point of Lincoln Today

Here at Asher Point Independent Living of Lincoln, we have a variety of Independent Living Apartments available to promote comfort, independence, and peace of mind. Whether you opt for a homey studio or a spacious one-bedroom, your apartment affords you privacy while the community provides you with connection.

You can visit both types, ask questions and identify the one that feels right for you.

Schedule a tour today at  Asher Point Independent Living of Lincoln to discuss our apartment choices and find the independent lifestyle that suits you.