A European two-room apartment is a type of apartment where there is one isolated room (bedroom), and the living room and kitchen are a single space. The combined kitchen-living room on average occupies up to 40% of the area, thus being the largest room in the apartment. 

Contents:

  1. The Features of European Two-Room Apartments
  2. Layout Options
  3. Advantages and Disadvantages of the European Two-Room Type
  4. Euro Two-Room Apartments in Different Countries
  5. European Two-Room Apartment in the Context of Investment

The Features of European Two-Room Apartments

Although European two-room apartments appeared on the real estate market relatively recently, their number is growing every year. The word “european” in this case indicates a Western European approach to the organization of living space, where the kitchen is often part of the general living area, and not an isolated room, as was traditionally customary in Soviet and post-Soviet architecture.

The target residents of European two-room apartments include:

  • Young families without children or with one child.
  • Single people who value comfort and functionality.
  • Couples starting their life together.
  • People buying an apartment to rent out.
  • Students and young professionals.

In the context of growing building density in large cities, European two-room apartments make it possible to effectively use limited space, providing comfortable housing in a smaller area.

To understand what a European two-room apartment looks like, just imagine an apartment with a small bedroom and a huge dining room. The large area of ​​the latter allows us to distinguish at least two zones in it: cooking and relaxation. In addition to the kitchen-living room, and bedroom, such housing has a small hall and a bathroom (combined or separate).

The area of ​​a European two-room apartment, as a rule, ranges from 38 to 50 sq.m. Thus, the answer to the question: “What is the difference between a Euro two-room apartment and a two-room apartment?” sounds like this: “Smaller area and lack of walls/partitions between the living room and kitchen”. There are also European three-room apartments: in addition to a combined space, they include two isolated rooms.

So, the main characteristics of a two-room apartment include:

  • Availability of one isolated bedroom.
  • Combined kitchen and living room space (kitchen-living room or kitchen-dining room).
  • Bathroom (usually combined).
  • Entrance hall or hall.
  • Possible presence of a balcony or loggia.

Differences from a standard two-room apartment:

  • Lack of an isolated kitchen.
  • More efficient use of space by combining zones.
  • Usually a smaller total area compared to the classic two-room option.
  • More modern and functional design.

Layout Options

Typical sizes of Euro two-room apartments range from 35 to 60 square meters. However, there are both more compact options (from 30 sq. m.) and more spacious ones (up to 70-80 sq. m.).

Examples of common planning solutions:

а) Compact Euro two-room apartment (35-40 sq. m):

  • Bedroom: 10-12 sq. m
  • Kitchen-living room: 18-20 sq. m
  • Bathroom: 3-4 sq. m
  • Hallway: 4-5 sq. m

б) Standard Euro two-room (45-50 sq.m.):

  • Bedroom: 12-14 sq. m
  • Kitchen-living room: 22-25 sq. m
  • Bathroom: 4-5 sq. m
  • Hallway: 5-6 sq. m
  • Balcony/loggia: 2-3 sq. m

в) Spacious Euro two-room (55-60 sq.m.):

  • Bedroom: 14-16 sq. m
  • Kitchen-living room: 28-30 sq. m
  • Bathroom: 5-6 sq. m
  • Hallway: 6-7 sq. m
  • Balcony/loggia: 3-4 sq. m

It is important to note that specific layouts can vary significantly depending on the project and developer. Some Euro-bedrooms may have additional rooms, such as a dressing room or pantry, which increases their functionality.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the European Two-Room Type

This type has both a number of advantages and a number of disadvantages.

Advantages: 

  • Efficient use of space. Combining the kitchen and living room allows you to create a large common area, visually increasing the space of the apartment. This is especially important in urban areas, where every square meter counts.
  • Improved illumination. By combining the kitchen and living room, the glass area increases, which provides better natural light to the room.
  • Lower price. Euro two-room apartments often have a smaller area compared to classic two-room apartments, which makes them more affordable (about 15% cheaper than a regular 2-room apartment).
  • Functionality. An open floor plan gives you more room to customize your design and arrange your furniture according to your personal preferences. For example, you can zone the space using a bar counter or mobile screens.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited personal space. Having only one isolated room can be difficult for families with children or when additional privacy is required.
  • Spread of odors. An open floor plan can allow kitchen odors to spread throughout the apartment, which may be uncomfortable for some residents.
  • More noise. The absence of a wall between the kitchen and living room can lead to increased noise levels, for example, from operating household appliances.
  • Difficulties with cleaning. A large open space may require more effort to clean and keep clean.

Euro Two-Room Apartments in Different Countries

The Euro two-room concept has analogues in various countries, although the terminology may differ:

European countries:

  • In the UK, such apartments are often called “one-bedroom flat with open-plan kitchen/living area”.
  • In France, the term “appartement 2 pièces avec cuisine américaine” is used.
  • In Germany, such a layout may be called “Zweiraumwohnung mit offener Küche”.

USA:

In the United States, a similar format is known as “one-bedroom apartment with open concept living” or “1BR+den”.

Russia and CIS countries:

In Russia and the CIS countries, the term “euro-dvushka” has become most widespread. In some regions, synonyms are also used: “European two-room apartment”, “smart apartment,” or “studio apartment with a separate bedroom”.

It is important to note that different countries may have their own specific layout and organization of space, determined by cultural traditions and local building codes.

European Two-Room Apartment in the Context of Investment

Euro two-room apartments are often considered an attractive real estate investment:

  • High demand for rentals. Due to their functionality and relatively low rental costs, Euro two-room apartments are in high demand in the rental housing market.
  • Potential for value growth. As the popularity of this format grows, the cost of Euro two-room apartments may grow faster than the cost of standard apartments.
  • Liquidity. Euro two-room apartments are usually easier to sell or rent due to high demand and relatively affordable prices.
  • Diversification of the investment portfolio. For real estate investors, Euro two-room apartments represent an opportunity to diversify their portfolio by adding a modern and sought-after housing format.

So, the Euro two-room apartment is not just a trend in the real estate market, but a reflection of deeper changes in society associated with urbanization, changing family patterns, and the desire for a more flexible and efficient lifestyle. Therefore, we can expect that this housing format will continue to play an important role in shaping the appearance of modern cities and the lifestyle of their residents.