A studio apartment is a one-bedroom house with a kitchen. Economical without being shabby, it is suitable for bachelors, students and spinsters.

Moses Lwanga, a builder, says some people construct studio apartments in order to rent them out. He advises that before building them, you need to consult a professional designer.

According to architect Muhammad Nsereko, the estimated cost for each room depends on the location, plot size and one’s finances.

David Kireli, a civil engineer says it is easy and relatively cheap to construct a studio apartment.  

“When constructing it, care must be taken not to exceed the acceptable space per house which is stipulated in the public health regulations,” he warns.

Kireli adds that when you embark on such a project, the layout, size, location and likely appearance of your project will all influence your decisions.

He says before you embark on the project, it is imperative that you adhere to the rules of zoning.

Zoning is a set of municipal laws or regulations that govern how property can and cannot be used in specific geographic locations.

Space usage

In this apartment, you can have a sitting area that accommodates two seats and a small table. Plan for a bed area, two shelves (one of which can be used as a wardrobe and the other for utensils) and some space for a TV table and music systems.

Costs

The foundation for such a house may cost sh2m to sh2.5m, while the walls may cost sh1m to 1.5m, including ring beam, cement, sand and bricks. The finishing of the unit will be sh1m to sh2m, with tiling, painting and plastering.

Each room needs one door and two windows which may cost you sh1m. The roofing may cost sh2m to sh2.5m, but this also depends on whether you use tiles or iron sheets.

Electricity and water are also essential services

Fred Lukoda, a construction engineer says proper supervision for this project is important because the owner will avoid errors that might lead to demolitions, redoing things, wastage of money and loss of time.

Lowering costs

The sizes of the room for each apartment must be consistent; this will help in budgeting for the materials required. A simple design will require fewer columns. This makes work easy for the contractor.

Consequently, the constructors will deliver the project in a relatively shorter time than they would for a complicated design.

To maximise space, take advantage of the views, by having more facing windows. Also, ensure major rooms along the sides get a good view by having big windows. A beautiful apartment will attract customers instantly.

Ensure you use strong and durable materials. This will make your building withstand harsh weather conditions and it will last for very many years.