Pros and Cons of Living in a Designer Apartment in Tokyo

Let’s first take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of living in a designer apartment.

Pros

・Sophisticated spaces

Compared to regular rentals, designer apartments feature higher design quality. From exposed concrete walls and open-plan living rooms to large windows that let in natural light, these stylish interiors create a chic, gallery-like living environment that enhances your everyday life.

・Designed for comfort

Many units are designed with thoughtful layouts, storage solutions, and flexible spaces such as open kitchens or movable partitions that adapt to different lifestyles. Many also come with modern amenities and enhanced security features such as auto-lock systems, security cameras, and parcel delivery lockers.

・A lifestyle that reflects your individuality

Every designer apartment has its own unique personality, from minimal, modern spaces to playful layouts. This inspires residents to carefully curate furniture, art, and décor to create a home that truly reflects their personal style.

Cons

・Higher rent

The uniqueness and design quality often come at a premium. Rents are typically ¥10,000–¥20,000 higher per month compared to similar-sized conventional properties in the same area. Properties that use high-quality materials or include popular features such as lofts or system kitchens are especially expensive.

・Practicality may suffer

Some properties sacrifice functionality for design. For example, a focus on aesthetics may lead to reduced storage or awkward layouts. Exposed concrete walls, while stylish, tend to make apartments hotter in summer and colder in winter.

・Higher maintenance costs

Due to their special interiors and unique structures, restoration fees upon moving out can be more expensive than those of standard rentals. Scratches or damage to walls and flooring may result in costly repair bills, so it’s essential to review the contract carefully.