Apartment Essentials Checklist: What You Really Need (and What You Don’t) in a Studio

Studio living comes with its perks — less space to clean, lower utility bills, and a simplified lifestyle that lets you focus on what matters. But when it’s time to move in, the last thing you want to do is overpack and overcrowd your fresh start.

At The Penleigh – Branson Row, we believe a well-equipped apartment doesn’t need to be cluttered. With smart design, lifestyle-friendly amenities, and intentional planning, you can thrive from day one.

Here’s your go-to checklist of what’s actually essential in a studio apartment — and what to skip:

✅ What You Really Need

1. Multi-functional Furniture: Think beyond basic furniture. Choose a bed frame with drawers, an ottoman with storage, or a desk that doubles as a vanity. In a studio, every piece should earn its place — and ideally, do more than one job.

2. Space-Saving Kitchen Gear: You don’t need an eight-piece pot set. A good nonstick pan, saucepan, cutting board, and a few prep tools will carry you far. The Penleigh’s kitchens come fully equipped with modern appliances, so focus on essentials that save you space without compromising function.

3. Smart Storage Solutions: Over-the-door hooks, under-bed bins, drawer organizers, and slim rolling carts can turn unused nooks into usable space. Open layouts at The Penleigh make it easy to personalize without the need for bulky furniture.

4. Everyday Comforts: Don’t forget about bedding that feels like home, soft towels, a laundry hamper, and cleaning basics like a broom, mop, or handheld vacuum. You’ll want a space that feels clean, calm, and truly yours from the start.

5. A Few Personal Touches: A small plant, a favorite art print, or a cozy throw blanket can transform a blank space into something personal. At The Penleigh - Branson Row, wide windows and neutral palettes create a perfect canvas for your style.

🚫 What You Don’t Need

1. Duplicates and Extras: Skip buying in bulk — your space won’t thank you. No need for 12 mugs, 5 cutting boards, or 3 sets of sheets. Focus on quality over quantity and upgrade only as needed.

2. Oversized Furniture: That massive sectional might look tempting, but it’ll dominate your space. Instead, opt for smaller-scale furniture. The Penleigh’s layouts are designed to feel open — let the furniture match the vibe.

3. Too Many Decor Items: Less is more. Over-decorating can quickly make a studio feel cluttered and chaotic. Use statement pieces and avoid covering every wall or surface. The natural light at The Penleigh does a lot of work already — let it shine.

4. Appliances You’ll Never Use: Unless you’re baking every weekend, you probably don’t need a bread maker or deep fryer. Stick with appliances you’ll use regularly — microwave, kettle, air fryer — and skip the rest.

5. Things That Don’t Serve a Purpose: Impulse decor, awkward hand-me-downs, or trendy gadgets might look fun but often become clutter. If it doesn’t fit your routine or space, it doesn’t belong.

Studio living is about making smart choices — and starting fresh with only the essentials can give you room to grow, literally and mentally. At The Penleigh – Branson Row, our studios are designed with real life in mind: efficient layouts, full kitchens, walk-in closets, on-site laundry, and lifestyle amenities like a gym, clubhouse, and sparkling pool.

So before you bring everything, ask yourself: Is this something that helps me live better?

Call (417) 337-0908 or visit thepenleigh.com to explore available units — and start fresh in a space made for simpler, smarter living!