Know the differences between loft, flat, and studio and discover which type of housing matches your lifestyle and needs.
Submitted at Jun 7, 2025, 12:00 PM
Loft of the Single - Alexandre Gedeon and Hugo Schwartz. CASACOR Project Rio de Janeiro 2014. (Divulgação)
The term loft originated in New York in the 1960s when old warehouses and industrial spaces began to be transformed into homes, primarily by artists seeking spacious and more affordable spaces. Over time, the concept became more sophisticated and began to represent a style of housing that emphasizes spaciousness, integration, and industrial design. A loft is generally characterized by having few internal partitions. The ceiling height is usually high, allowing for the creation of mezzanines. Plumbing and electrical installations are often exposed, adding to the urban and laid-back atmosphere. Large windows, metal structures, exposed concrete, and visible bricks are common elements. 
Ideal for those who enjoy spacious, creative environments with contemporary aesthetics, the loft is more common in central areas and in larger properties. It can be a great option for singles, couples without children, or people who work from home and need multifunctional space. 
The flat is a type of housing very common in large cities and closely linked to a practical routine. It is a compact apartment, usually located in buildings that operate as apart-hotels. In other words, in addition to the residential unit, the resident has access to services similar to those of a hotel, such as cleaning, 24-hour reception, laundry, and sometimes a restaurant or gym. Flats usually have a simple layout, with one or two rooms, and are aimed at executives, students, or people who live an intense work routine. Often, these properties are used as investments, rented for short periods or seasonal stays. 
Despite being smaller, they offer practicality and security, being very sought after by those who spend little time at home but want comfort and structure. 
The studio is one of the most popular types in today's real estate market, especially among young people, students, and those living alone. It is a smaller apartment, usually with an area between 20 m² and 40 m², where the spaces are fully integrated — living room, bedroom, and kitchen share the same space, with the bathroom being the only closed room. Unlike the loft, the studio does not have high ceilings or an industrial aesthetic, and is usually a project designed from the start as housing. It is a practical and functional solution, with planned furniture to make the most of every inch. In many developments, studios come furnished or with smart storage and space optimization solutions. 
This type of property is very common in central neighborhoods or near universities and commercial centers, where location and size become important attractions. 
Although they may seem similar at first glance, lofts, flats, and studios have very distinct proposals: 
For those at the beginning of their careers, attending university, or working full-time, the studio is one of the best options. With compact and well-planned spaces, this type of property ensures practicality, simple maintenance, and strategic location — usually close to commercial centers, public transport stations, and universities. The more affordable cost also makes the studio a popular choice among those living alone or renting their first property. Additionally, many studios are already delivered with smart furniture, further reducing the need for significant initial investments in furnishings and renovations. 
The flats stand out as the best option for those living an intense work routine, especially in large cities. Since they function as apart-hotels, they offer service structures such as daily cleaning, reception, laundry, and, in some cases, a restaurant and gym — which makes daily life much easier for those with little time for household tasks. This is also a good choice for professionals who travel frequently, as many flats operate with flexible contracts and even nightly rates, allowing the resident to alternate between different locations without sacrificing comfort. 
For those working in creation, art, or simply valuing environments that stimulate creativity, the loft offers the freedom that other formats cannot provide. The loft allows for varied layout configurations, area integration, and even the setup of small work studios within the residence itself. Ideal for those who need a multifunctional space — for example, where the resident can live, work, and entertain friends — the loft also charms with its visual appeal and the urban-industrial style that conveys personality and authenticity. 
Those looking for a property as an investment should also consider the characteristics of each model. Both flats and studios are highly valued in the rental market, especially in areas close to business centers and universities. Due to their reduced size and low maintenance, these properties offer good liquidity and tend to be rented out quickly, ensuring a steady financial return. Flats are ideal for corporate rentals or short-term stays, while studios work well for longer contracts with young people and students. Meanwhile, lofts, although more niche, can attract a premium audience that values style and exclusivity. CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on knowledge from casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho. 
