Understanding square footage is crucial in various aspects of life, from renting an apartment to designing a home. But what does 700 square feet really feel like? How much is 700 square feet in practical terms? This guide delves into the specifics of 700 square feet, providing relatable comparisons, design considerations, and real-world examples to help you visualize and utilize this space effectively.
Understanding the Basics of Square Footage
Square footage is a measurement of area, representing the space contained within a two-dimensional shape. It’s calculated by multiplying the length and width of a space. Therefore, a room that is 20 feet long and 35 feet wide would be 700 square feet (20 x 35 = 700).
It’s important to remember that the shape of the space significantly impacts how usable it is. A long, narrow space feels different from a square space of the same square footage. Consider the layout and flow when evaluating whether 700 square feet is sufficient for your needs.
Factors Influencing Perceived Space
Several factors can influence how spacious 700 square feet feels. These include:
-
Ceiling Height: Higher ceilings create a sense of openness.
-
Natural Light: Abundant natural light makes a space feel larger and more inviting.
-
Layout: An open floor plan maximizes the feeling of spaciousness, while closed-off rooms can make the area feel smaller.
-
Color Scheme: Light colors reflect light, contributing to a brighter and more open feel. Dark colors tend to absorb light, making the space feel smaller.
-
Furniture: The size and placement of furniture can greatly impact how spacious a room feels. Opting for smaller, multi-functional pieces is crucial in compact spaces.
-
Clutter: Minimizing clutter is essential in making 700 square feet feel comfortable and organized.
Relating 700 Square Feet to Real-World Spaces
To better grasp the size of 700 square feet, let’s compare it to familiar spaces:
- Apartments: 700 square feet is a common size for a one-bedroom apartment. It can also be a comfortable studio apartment, especially with a well-designed layout.
- Garages: A standard two-car garage is typically around 400-500 square feet, meaning 700 square feet is larger than the average two-car garage.
- Rooms: A spacious living room might be around 300-400 square feet. Therefore, 700 square feet could accommodate a generous living room, a kitchen, and a small dining area.
- Tiny Homes: While tiny homes vary in size, 700 square feet is considered relatively large in the tiny home world. It offers ample space for comfortable living.
Common Apartment Sizes and Square Footage
Understanding how 700 square feet compares to other apartment sizes helps put it into perspective.
- Studio Apartment: Typically ranges from 400 to 600 square feet.
- One-Bedroom Apartment: Averages around 700-900 square feet.
- Two-Bedroom Apartment: Usually exceeds 900 square feet.
Therefore, 700 square feet falls squarely within the typical range for a comfortable one-bedroom apartment or a larger studio.
Designing and Maximizing 700 Square Feet
Effectively designing and maximizing 700 square feet requires careful planning and strategic choices.
Layout Considerations
The layout is paramount. An open floor plan can make the space feel significantly larger. Consider how you will use each area and how they will flow together.
-
Open Concept Living: Combining the living room, dining area, and kitchen into one open space creates a sense of spaciousness and promotes social interaction.
-
Strategic Zoning: Use furniture, rugs, or changes in flooring to define different zones within the open space without physically separating them.
-
Vertical Space: Utilize vertical space by installing shelves, cabinets, and storage solutions that reach the ceiling. This maximizes storage without taking up valuable floor space.
Furniture Selection
Choosing the right furniture is crucial in a compact space.
-
Multi-Functional Furniture: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed, a storage ottoman, or a dining table that can be extended.
-
Scale: Choose furniture that is appropriately scaled for the space. Oversized furniture can overwhelm the area and make it feel cramped.
-
Lightweight Pieces: Choose lighter pieces that are easier to move around. This allows you to reconfigure the space as needed.
Storage Solutions
Storage is key to maintaining a clutter-free and organized living space.
-
Built-In Storage: Consider built-in storage solutions, such as bookshelves, cabinets, and window seats with storage compartments.
-
Wall-Mounted Shelves: Install wall-mounted shelves to display items and keep them off the floor.
-
Under-Bed Storage: Utilize under-bed storage containers to store items such as clothing, linens, and shoes.
Color and Lighting
Color and lighting play a significant role in creating a sense of spaciousness.
-
Light Colors: Use light and neutral colors on the walls, floors, and furniture to reflect light and make the space feel larger.
-
Accent Colors: Add pops of color with accessories, artwork, and textiles to create visual interest.
-
Natural Light: Maximize natural light by keeping windows clear and using light-colored window coverings.
-
Artificial Lighting: Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit and inviting space.
Decorating Tips
Thoughtful decorating can enhance the overall feel of the space.
-
Mirrors: Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
-
Artwork: Choose artwork that complements the color scheme and adds visual interest.
-
Plants: Add plants to bring life and freshness into the space.
-
Minimize Clutter: Keep surfaces clear and organized to create a sense of calm and order.
Examples of How 700 Square Feet is Used
Let’s explore some real-world examples of how 700 square feet can be used effectively:
-
One-Bedroom Apartment: A well-designed one-bedroom apartment can comfortably accommodate a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, with space for a small dining area or home office.
-
Studio Apartment: A 700-square-foot studio apartment can be divided into distinct zones for sleeping, living, and cooking, with clever storage solutions to maximize space.
-
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): A 700-square-foot ADU can provide a comfortable and independent living space for family members or renters.
-
Retail Space: A small boutique or retail store can effectively utilize 700 square feet for displaying merchandise and serving customers.
-
Office Space: A 700-square-foot office space can accommodate several workstations, a small conference room, and a reception area.
Comparing 700 Square Feet to Other Common Sizes
To further solidify your understanding, let’s compare 700 square feet to other common square footage measurements:
-
500 Square Feet: Significantly smaller, often feels cramped, best suited for minimalist living or single occupants.
-
1000 Square Feet: Offers considerably more space, allowing for more furniture, storage, and comfortable living for multiple occupants.
-
1200 Square Feet: A comfortable size for a small family, providing ample space for living, dining, and sleeping.
The following table compares these sizes:
“`html
| Square Footage | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| 500 sq ft | Compact, minimalist living | Single occupant, minimalist lifestyle |
| 700 sq ft | Comfortable one-bedroom or spacious studio | Single occupant or couple |
| 1000 sq ft | Spacious living with more room for furniture and storage | Couple or small family |
| 1200 sq ft | Ample space for family living | Small family |
“`
Is 700 Square Feet Enough? Considerations and Lifestyle Factors
Ultimately, whether 700 square feet is “enough” depends on your individual needs and lifestyle. Consider the following factors:
-
Number of Occupants: Is it just you, or will you be sharing the space with a partner or family member?
-
Lifestyle: Do you entertain frequently? Do you work from home? Do you have hobbies that require a lot of space?
-
Storage Needs: How much stuff do you have? Are you a minimalist, or do you tend to accumulate belongings?
-
Budget: 700 square feet may be more affordable than larger spaces, making it a practical choice for those on a budget.
-
Location: The cost of living varies significantly by location. 700 square feet might be more than adequate in a rural area but feel cramped in a major city.
By carefully considering these factors, you can determine whether 700 square feet is the right size for you. If you prioritize location, affordability, and a minimalist lifestyle, 700 square feet can be a perfectly comfortable and manageable living space.
What kind of living arrangements typically fit comfortably in a 700 square foot space?
A 700 square foot space generally accommodates a small apartment or a comfortably sized studio apartment. You can often fit a separate living area, a bedroom (though potentially a small one or integrated into the living space), a functional kitchen, and a bathroom. Single individuals or couples often find 700 square feet to be sufficient for their needs, particularly if they prioritize location or amenities over square footage.
However, it’s important to consider the layout and design of the space. An open-concept layout can make a 700 square foot apartment feel larger than one with multiple closed-off rooms. Smart storage solutions and minimalist furniture choices are also crucial for maximizing the usability and comfort of a smaller living space.
How can I effectively maximize storage in a 700 square foot home?
Vertical storage is your best friend in a smaller space. Utilize tall bookshelves, wall-mounted shelves, and cabinets that reach the ceiling to maximize storage potential. Consider investing in furniture with built-in storage, such as ottomans with hidden compartments, beds with drawers underneath, and coffee tables with storage shelves.
Another key strategy is decluttering regularly. Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use. Consider utilizing storage units for seasonal items or items you don’t need access to regularly. Organizing your belongings efficiently will make the most of the limited space you have available.
Is 700 square feet a suitable size for a family with children?
While it’s possible for a small family to live in 700 square feet, it would likely be challenging, especially with more than one child. Sharing spaces would be inevitable, and privacy would be limited. Careful organization and minimalist living would be essential to maintain a comfortable environment.
Ultimately, the suitability depends on the family’s lifestyle and priorities. Families who spend a lot of time outdoors or have access to community amenities might find it more manageable. However, for most families, a larger space would be preferable to avoid feeling cramped and overwhelmed.
What are some key design principles to consider when furnishing a 700 square foot apartment?
Embrace minimalism and choose multi-functional furniture. Opt for pieces that serve more than one purpose, such as a sofa bed, a dining table that can be folded down, or a coffee table with storage. This helps to avoid overcrowding and maximizes the usability of each item.
Pay attention to color and light. Lighter colors tend to make a space feel larger and brighter, while darker colors can make it feel smaller and more enclosed. Maximize natural light by keeping windows clear and using sheer curtains. Strategic use of mirrors can also create the illusion of more space.
How does 700 square feet compare to the average apartment size in different cities?
The average apartment size varies significantly depending on the city and the cost of living. In densely populated cities like New York or San Francisco, 700 square feet might be considered relatively spacious, especially for a one-bedroom apartment. However, in cities with lower costs of living, 700 square feet might be closer to the average or even smaller than average.
Understanding the local market is crucial when assessing whether 700 square feet is sufficient for your needs. Consider researching the average apartment sizes in your target city to get a better sense of how it compares to other options. Online resources and real estate websites can provide valuable insights into local market trends.
What is the difference between 700 square feet and 700 square meters?
Square feet and square meters are units of area measurement, but they represent vastly different sizes. One square meter is equal to approximately 10.76 square feet. Therefore, 700 square meters is significantly larger than 700 square feet, by a factor of approximately 10.76. This difference is crucial to understand when comparing property sizes internationally.
Confusing the two units could lead to a huge misunderstanding of the actual space available. Always double-check the units of measurement when looking at property listings or floor plans, especially if you are comparing properties from different countries or regions where different measurement systems are used.
What are the common challenges of living in a 700 square foot space, and how can I overcome them?
One of the most common challenges is limited space and the potential for clutter. To combat this, implement strict decluttering habits, utilize vertical storage solutions, and prioritize multi-functional furniture. Regularly assess your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use. Establishing a designated place for everything can also help prevent clutter from accumulating.
Another challenge can be a lack of privacy, especially if you share the space with others. Create designated zones for different activities to help define individual spaces. Utilize room dividers, curtains, or screens to create a sense of separation when needed. Open communication with housemates about personal space and schedules is also essential for maintaining harmony.