Studio apartment (studio flat)

A studio combines everything except the bathroom in one room: a sleeping area, a sitting area and a kitchenette along one wall. The bathroom is separate and private.

Studio or self contain? In layout they are the same thing. The difference in Nigeria is mostly in the market:

• "Self contain" is the everyday word for a single room with private facilities, at the lower end of the rental market.
• "Studio" is used for newer buildings, often furnished, serviced, or let as short lets, at higher rents.

Where to find them. Property Centre does not have a studio sub-type. Long-term studios are usually listed as self contains; furnished studios are common in the short-let category.

Furnished studios and short lets. Many studios in Lekki, Victoria Island and Abuja are let furnished, with power backup, internet and cleaning, either by the night as short lets or by the month or year at higher rents. Before committing, compare what is included with an unfurnished self contain in the same area and with the cost of furnishing it yourself.

Living in one. A studio works best for one person or a couple. Good ventilation over the kitchenette, enough storage and a reliable water supply make the difference between a comfortable studio and a cramped one. Ask whether the building allows short letting, since that affects who your neighbours will be and whether you could sublet.

Is it legal to short let a studio I rent? Only with your landlord's written consent in Lagos, and only if your estate rules allow it.

Studio sizes. Studios vary a lot in floor area, from compact rooms to large open-plan units in new blocks. Ask for the floor area and look at the layout before you compare rents.

• Lagos: most studios are in Lekki, Victoria Island, Ikoyi and Yaba, many as short lets.
• Abuja: common in Wuse, Jabi and Gwarinpa serviced blocks.
• Kenya: a similar unit is called a bedsitter or studio.