Kenya’s urban areas are experiencing rapid population growth, leading to increased demand for affordable and efficient housing. Cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru are seeing a surge in young professionals, small families, and students seeking practical and budget-friendly living spaces. As land becomes more expensive and space more limited, compact apartment units have emerged as a smart and sustainable solution. Get compact and functional 700 Sq Ft 2 Bedroom Apartment Plans perfect for 50×100 plots in Kenya.
Among the most popular options are 700 square foot 2-bedroom apartment plans. These units strike the perfect balance between functionality and affordability, offering just enough space for comfortable living without the high construction or rental costs associated with larger homes. Designed with clever layouts, they can maximize every square foot to serve the needs of modern urban dwellers in Kenya.
This article explores the benefits, layout options, design considerations, and cost insights surrounding 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartments, helping you understand why they are a winning choice in Kenya’s housing landscape.
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2. Why 700 Sq Ft? Understanding the Size and Its Potential
A 700 square foot apartment may seem small on paper, but with smart design, it can comfortably accommodate two bedrooms, a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and even a small balcony or utility space. Typically, the space can be broken down as follows: 2 bedrooms (90–110 sq ft each), living/dining area (150–180 sq ft), kitchen (60–80 sq ft), bathroom (40–50 sq ft), and circulation/storage spaces taking the rest. With proper planning, every inch can be put to productive use.
In the Kenyan market, especially in fast-growing urban centers, apartment sizes vary widely. Bedsitters often range from 250–350 sq ft, one-bedroom units around 500–600 sq ft, and three-bedrooms upwards of 1,000 sq ft. The 700 sq ft 2-bedroom plan sits in a sweet spot—offering more room than a one-bedroom, while remaining significantly more affordable than larger units.
This size is ideal for high-demand urban areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Nakuru where space is limited and land costs are high. Developers can fit more units on a plot, while tenants or homeowners enjoy lower costs and easier maintenance. It’s a practical, scalable housing solution for Kenya’s growing middle and lower-middle-income population.
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3. Key Considerations in Designing a Functional 700 Sq Ft 2 Bedroom Apartment Plans
Designing a 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartment in Kenya requires a thoughtful approach to ensure comfort, efficiency, and practicality. Since space is limited, smart planning is essential to avoid a cramped or cluttered feel.
Smart space planning begins with a layout that minimizes wasted corridors and prioritizes flow between rooms. An open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area is often more efficient than segmented spaces, creating a sense of openness and maximizing usable square footage. Bedrooms should be placed in quiet zones, ideally opposite each other for privacy.
Incorporating multi-functional rooms and furniture can significantly enhance functionality. A dining table can double as a work desk, while a sofa bed can serve both guests and everyday use. Built-in wardrobes, wall-mounted shelves, and under-bed storage help free up floor space without sacrificing storage needs.
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Natural lighting and ventilation are crucial in making small spaces feel bigger and healthier. Strategic placement of windows in the living room, bedrooms, kitchen, and bathroom can boost daylight and airflow. Where possible, use large windows and avoid heavy drapery that blocks light.
Lastly, the kitchen, bathroom, and storage areas must be optimized. Compact kitchens with vertical storage, pull-out cabinets, and open shelving work well. Bathrooms can benefit from corner sinks, sliding doors, and smart fittings. Even small foyers or corridors can include hooks or niches for everyday items.
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A well-designed 700 sq ft apartment can feel spacious, stylish, and highly livable—perfect for Kenya’s urban housing market.
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4. Layout Options That Work in Kenya
When designing a 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartment in Kenya, layout plays a crucial role in determining comfort, flow, and livability. Here are three practical layout options that cater to diverse preferences and urban lifestyles.
Sample Layout 1: Open-plan Living/Kitchen with Balcony
This layout combines the living, dining, and kitchen areas into a single open space, often flowing into a small balcony. The bedrooms are placed on either side for privacy, with a shared bathroom accessible from the hallway.
Pros: Feels spacious and airy, ideal for entertaining; the balcony enhances natural light and ventilation.
Cons: Cooking smells may spread into the living area; less privacy if entertaining guests.
Cultural Fit: Works well for young professionals or small families comfortable with modern living arrangements.
Sample Layout 2: Separate Kitchen and Living Area with Compact Bedrooms
This layout offers a distinct kitchen space, a central living/dining area, and two modestly sized bedrooms. The bathroom is centrally located for easy access.
Pros: More privacy and less odor transfer from the kitchen; clear separation of functions.
Cons: More partition walls may make the space feel smaller.
Cultural Fit: Appeals to more traditional families or those who host guests frequently and prefer kitchen privacy.
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Sample Layout 3: Corner Unit with More Windows and Better Light Flow
Positioned at the corner of a building, this unit maximizes window placement in multiple rooms. It often features a U-shaped kitchen, two bedrooms, a shared bathroom, and generous light in the living area.
Pros: Excellent daylight and ventilation; feels larger than it is.
Cons: Limited availability in most developments; slightly higher cost.
Cultural Fit: Ideal for families who prioritize a bright, open feel and possibly accommodate extended family visits.
These layouts reflect practical needs while considering Kenyan cultural norms such as space for guests, privacy in shared units, and the desire for natural light and fresh air.
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5. Benefits of 700 Sq Ft 2 Bedroom Apartment Designs
A 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartment offers numerous advantages that make it a smart choice for both developers and residents in Kenya’s urban areas.
Affordability is one of the biggest draws. These apartments require less land and fewer materials to build, which translates to lower construction costs. This makes them appealing to real estate developers targeting first-time homeowners or budget-conscious buyers. Rent is also generally lower compared to larger units, making them accessible to a wider range of tenants.
Lower maintenance and utility costs are another key benefit. With less floor area to clean, furnish, or repair, residents spend less on upkeep. Smaller spaces also consume less electricity and water, keeping monthly bills manageable.
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From a planning perspective, these units are easier to approve and build on small plots, especially in densely populated areas like Nairobi, Kisumu, or Mombasa. Their compact footprint allows for higher unit density, which is economically efficient for developers.
Additionally, 700 sq ft apartments are versatile. They’re perfect for young professionals, small families, or Airbnb rentals. Their modest size makes them easy to furnish and manage, while still offering the comfort of a two-bedroom layout. This flexibility ensures strong market demand and high occupancy rates.
6. Construction Cost Estimate in Kenya
As of 2024, constructing a 700 sq ft (approximately 65 square meters) 2-bedroom apartment in Kenya involves varying costs depending on location, materials, and finishes. According to INTEGRUM Construction, average building costs range between KES 48,750 and KES 122,860 per square meter, translating to KES 4,529 to KES 11,414 per square foot .Integrum+2Integrum+2The Star+2
For a standard mid-range finish, the total construction budget for a 700 sq ft unit would be approximately KES 3.2 million to KES 4.5 million. This estimate includes structural work, finishes, and basic fittings but excludes land acquisition and professional fees.
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To manage and potentially reduce costs:
- Utilize local materials: Opting for locally sourced materials like interlocking stabilized soil blocks can cut expenses by up to 30% .HPD Consult
- Consider prefab options: Prefabricated components can reduce construction time and labor costs.
- Engage design-build firms: These firms offer integrated services, streamlining the construction process and potentially lowering costs.
By implementing these strategies, developers and homeowners can achieve cost-effective construction without compromising on quality.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
When designing or building a 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartment in Kenya, it’s crucial to avoid certain common mistakes that can undermine comfort and functionality.
One of the biggest issues is poor layout planning. Wasted hallway space, awkward room transitions, or badly positioned doors can make the apartment feel cramped. Always prioritize efficient flow and multi-use zones to maximize usability.
Another common mistake is ignoring privacy and noise separation between the two bedrooms. Placing bedrooms back-to-back or next to noisy areas like the living room or kitchen without proper insulation can lead to discomfort, especially for families or roommates.
Lastly, avoid overloading the space with bulky furniture or unnecessary fixtures. Oversized sofas, large dining sets, or ornamental pieces may look good in larger homes but can overwhelm a small apartment. Instead, opt for compact, multi-functional furniture that enhances openness and practicality.
Good planning ensures small apartments remain livable, stylish, and welcoming.
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8. How to Customize for Comfort and Style
Customizing a 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartment in Kenya for comfort and style is all about making smart aesthetic and functional choices.
Finishes and color schemes play a big role. Use light, neutral tones like whites, beiges, or pastels to create an airy, spacious feel. Glossy finishes on cabinets or tiles can reflect light, enhancing brightness. Natural materials such as wood and stone add warmth and texture without overwhelming the space.
For storage and furniture layout, think vertically. Install wall-mounted shelves, under-bed storage drawers, and multipurpose furniture like ottomans with hidden compartments. Keep walkways clear and use compact furniture that doesn’t overcrowd rooms.
To make the space feel larger, use mirrors to reflect light and create depth. Choose low-profile furniture and allow plenty of natural light through large windows or sheer curtains.
With these touches, even a compact apartment can feel stylish, functional, and distinctly personal.
9. Real-Life Examples from Kenya
Across Kenya’s urban centers, the 700 sq ft 2-bedroom apartment concept is already gaining popularity, especially in areas like Nairobi’s Ruaka and Kahawa West, Kisumu’s Milimani, and Thika’s Section 9.
A good example is a development in Nairobi’s Ruaka area, where compact 2-bedroom units offer open-plan kitchens, well-lit living rooms, and two cozy bedrooms—all within 700 sq ft. The layout maximizes efficiency, and each unit includes a small balcony for added appeal.
In Kisumu, similar apartments in Milimani have been successfully rented out to young professionals and small families. Residents praise the affordability and manageable maintenance costs, with one tenant noting, “It’s small, but everything I need fits perfectly—and the light and airflow make it feel bigger than it is.”
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These success stories show that with thoughtful design, 700 sq ft apartments are not only viable but also desirable in Kenya’s growing real estate market.
