Furnishing Small, Studio Apartments: What You Need to Know

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At Absolute Waterfront Apartments, we often speak with renters trying to make the most of compact spaces. Whether it’s a riverside studio in Parramatta, a modern one-bed in Norwest or a tiny unit near Westmead, Sydney is filled with smaller homes that require big ideas. Furnishing them can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative and intentional. Here’s how to make it work.

Furnishing a Small Apartment Without Sacrificing Comfort


Smaller apartments demand smart furniture choices that keep rooms open and functional. The trick is to create a space that feels bigger than it is.

Some tried-and-true ideas include:
  • Multi-purpose furniture like sofa beds or ottomans with storage
  • Vertical storage with shelving and tall bookcases
  • Neutral colours to create light and space
  • Compact appliances like slimline fridges or washer-dryer combos

Many of our furnished properties already include these clever solutions, saving you the effort of trial and error.

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Designing a Studio Apartment That Feels Bigger


Studios combine living, sleeping and dining into one footprint, which makes separation vital. A well-furnished studio uses layout tricks to create distinct zones.

What works best:
  • Rugs that visually separate bed from lounge areas
  • Foldaway furniture such as Murphy beds or wall desks
  • Lightweight dividers or curtains for privacy
  • Hidden storage built into beds or cupboards

In high-demand areas like Parramatta and Wentworth Point, furnished studios are popular among professionals and students who value centrality and flexibility.

👉 Book a studio viewing today

Tiny Apartments: Living Large in Small Spaces


Tiny homes require even more discipline, with every item needing to serve a purpose. These spaces, common in inner Sydney and Western Sydney suburbs like Castle Hill, attract relocators who want convenience and lifestyle.

Smart approaches include:
  • Drop-leaf tables that transform from desk to dining space
  • Wall-mounted TVs to free up floor area
  • Mirrors that reflect light and expand the room visually
  • Simple main furniture paired with bold accent pieces

Our listings in Norwest and Westmead show just how much potential these tiny apartments have when furnished thoughtfully.

👉 Call us to explore tiny apartment options


What Does It Cost to Furnish an Apartment?


The costs can surprise first-timers. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
  • Essentials only: Bed, sofa, table, fridge, washer – $5,000–$7,000
  • Mid-range setup: Add TV, rugs, kitchenware, décor – $10,000–$12,000
  • Premium look: Designer furniture, art, appliances – $15,000+

And that’s before considering movers, delivery delays and installation costs. For many, choosing a fully furnished apartment is more cost-effective and stress-free.

👉 Enquire about furnished options


Are Furnished Apartments More Expensive?


Weekly rent for furnished apartments is usually higher, but it balances against the upfront costs of furnishing. For stays of 6–18 months, the math often works in favour of furnished living.
  • Long-term tenants (5+ years): Unfurnished tends to be cheaper
  • Short-term relocators or students: Furnished is far more practical

Areas like Baulkham Hills and Parramatta have growing demand for furnished spaces due to their flexibility and ready-to-live setups.

👉 Compare furnished rentals now


Why Furnished Apartments Are Worth It


Imagine landing in Sydney and walking straight into a home with everything set—bed made, kitchen stocked with cookware, and appliances ready to use. That’s the real value of furnished apartments.

They’re ideal if you:
  • Need flexibility for study or work contracts
  • Don’t want the cost or stress of furnishing
  • Prefer quick, easy move-ins

Absolute Waterfront Apartments specialises in professionally styled, conveniently located furnished apartments that make life easier from day one.

👉 Browse our furnished listings
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