Small Flats Need Smart and Functional Interior Design

Dhaka’s growing housing demand and rising property prices are making 500 to 800 square feet apartments increasingly popular among middle-income families, young couples and first-time homebuyers. For such compact homes, proper interior planning is important to ensure comfortable living without wasting valuable space.

Nazrul Islam Raju, Lead Architect of WAV Architects, said the main focus of designing a small apartment should be functionality and efficient use of space. According to him, interior design should not only make a home attractive but also ensure that residents can use every part of the apartment conveniently.

He said there is no fixed price for interior work as the overall cost depends on the customer’s preferences and requirements. The choice of design, furniture, materials, fittings and finishing can all influence the final budget.
“Price cannot be fixed. It depends on the client’s preference,” Raju said.

According to him, material selection is one of the most important issues when planning interior work. Wardrobes and other furniture can be made using different types of boards or teak-based materials. The choice depends on the customer’s budget, desired appearance and expectations regarding durability.

Raju said clients should have a clear discussion about materials before starting the work. The type and quality of boards, wood, fittings and accessories can make a significant difference to both the appearance and cost of an interior project.

In a compact apartment, storage needs to be planned carefully. Wardrobes and other furniture should be designed according to the available space rather than simply adding large furniture. Properly planned built-in storage can help residents keep their belongings organised while leaving more usable space in the rooms.

He also noted that flooring preferences can differ depending on the location of the apartment and the taste of the owner. Residents may choose different colours, designs, patterns and materials according to their lifestyle and overall interior concept.

Raju said customers from different parts of Dhaka can have different tastes and expectations. For example, residents of Dhanmondi may have different interior preferences from those living in other areas of the capital. Therefore, interior design and budget cannot always be determined simply on the basis of apartment size.

He said interior work in some cases may cost around Tk 2,000 per square foot, although the actual cost varies according to the scope of work and materials selected. A small apartment, therefore, does not automatically mean that the interior budget will be low.

For 500 to 800 square feet apartments, Raju recommends giving priority to practical layouts, appropriate furniture and efficient storage. Dining arrangements, wardrobes and other furniture should be positioned carefully so that they do not make the apartment feel crowded.

With proper planning and suitable materials, he believes even a small apartment can be transformed into a functional, efficient and comfortable home.