Family of five finds balance in 800-sq-ft flat 

Living comfortably with all family members in a limited space is a major challenge in a densely populated city like Dhaka. For a family of five, living in an 800-square-foot flat requires careful use of every corner, while it also creates some limitations. However, Tanzeed Hossain believes that with proper planning, a family can lead a fairly normal life in such a flat.

Tanzeed Hossain, who lives in an 800-square-foot flat in Mohammadpur near Sia Masjid with four other family members, says, “The space is not very large for our family of five, but it is not too small either. If we use the rooms properly, it is possible to manage our daily life.”

According to him, an 800-square-foot flat usually has two bedrooms, a living space, a kitchen and one or more bathrooms. For a family of five, the bedrooms have to be shared, which limits privacy. 

However, with proper planning, part of a room can be used for children’s study or for work.

“We do not keep unnecessary furniture to save space. We use the walls for wardrobes and storage. This helps keep the rooms more open,” Tanzeed says.

He believes that compared with smaller flats, an 800-square-foot flat provides relatively more space for five people to move around and carry out daily activities. Family members can spend time together in the living room, while separate areas can be used for cooking, eating, studying and resting. Good design and enough windows can also ensure better light and ventilation.

However, privacy becomes a major concern, especially as children grow older and need more personal space. “As the children grow, their need for personal space also increases. Then 800 square feet starts to feel a little small,” Tanzeed says.

Storage is another challenge. Space can quickly become limited for the clothes, books and other belongings of five people. Too much furniture can further reduce the space for movement.

Still, Tanzeed believes that “if we remove unnecessary things and use every space properly, a family of five can live comfortably here.”

In his experience, an 800-square-foot flat can be a practical choice for a family of five if it has good design, sufficient light and air, and well-planned furniture. However, privacy and storage problems may increase as the family grows.