A room count is a starting point for comparing Istanbul apartments. A 1+1 normally means one bedroom and one living room; 2+1 means two bedrooms and a living room. It does not tell you how large those rooms are, how the kitchen is arranged or whether the layout will work for your household.
Read the plan alongside the room count
Ask for a floor plan for the exact apartment, including dimensions. A sample plan for the development can differ from the unit you are considering. Match the apartment number, floor and orientation to the plan before comparing options.
- Kitchen: check whether it is separate or open to the living room, and where appliances fit.
- Bedrooms: measure space for beds, wardrobes and an unobstructed route to the door.
- Bathrooms: check how many are available and whether access is through a bedroom.
- Storage: identify cupboards, utility space and any separate storage included with the apartment.
Ask what the area measurement includes
Two apartments advertised with similar square metres may offer different usable space. Ask for both the stated net and gross areas, how each was calculated, and whether balconies, terraces or shared spaces are included. Do not estimate room sizes from a wide-angle photograph.
For a home office, check whether the proposed desk position has power, daylight and enough separation from the main living area. For frequent guests, consider bathroom access and whether the guest room can hold the furniture you need.
Compare three practical layouts
- 1+1: check whether the living room must also accommodate dining and working.
- 2+1: compare a larger living room with a more usable second bedroom; the same room count can hide that trade-off.
- 3+1: check corridor space, bathroom access and whether each bedroom receives usable daylight.
Take measurements at the viewing
Bring a short list of the furniture dimensions that matter to you. Check door openings, lift access and any corners that could make moving furniture difficult. Record measurements against the floor plan so that you can compare apartments after the visit.
Use our apartment viewing checklist for the rest of the visit, and compare the address against your daily travel needs.