Furnishings significantly impact the living experience, particularly when deciding between a 2-bedroom serviced apartment and a private apartment. These two housing types serve different purposes; one is built for immediate convenience, while the other offers flexibility for personalisation. Understanding how their furnishings differ in scope, quality, and maintenance will assist tenants in making a more informed decision depending on the length of their stay, lifestyle preferences, and comfort expectations.
Discover how furnishing differs between a 2-bedroom serviced apartment and a private apartment in Singapore.
Level of Furnishing Provided
A 2-bedroom serviced apartment typically comes fully furnished with a complete set of household items designed for immediate occupancy. These usually include living room sofas, dining tables, beds in all rooms, wardrobes, and often a work desk. The kitchen will also be equipped with cookware, cutlery, a microwave, a refrigerator, and sometimes a washer-dryer combo. All utilities, such as Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and cable TV, are generally pre-installed and included in the rental price. Serviced apartments are purpose-built for convenience and often target business travellers, expatriates on short assignments, or families who require transitional housing.
On the other hand, a private apartment is offered in varying conditions: unfurnished, partially furnished, or fully furnished, but rarely to the extent seen in serviced apartments. Fully furnished private units may include essential furniture such as beds and wardrobes but usually lack the uniform quality, décor consistency, or completeness that serviced apartments provide. Partially furnished private apartments might include only white goods like air-conditioners, washing machines, or built-in wardrobes. Unfurnished options are typical among long-term tenants who prefer to customise their space or bring their own furniture.
Quality and Consistency of Furniture
One key distinction is the standardisation of furnishing quality. A 2-bedroom serviced apartment in Singapore is typically managed by a hospitality or property management company, meaning the furniture is often chosen to meet a specific design and comfort standard. Items are regularly maintained, replaced, or upgraded to maintain a consistent brand image and ensure guest satisfaction. This approach creates a more hotel-like experience, often with coordinated interior design themes and professionally selected furnishings.
In contrast, furnishings in a private apartment are usually decided by individual landlords. The quality can vary widely, from basic, second-hand pieces to luxury designer furniture, depending on the owner’s preference. There is also little consistency across units within the same building. This instance makes it more difficult for prospective tenants to predict the condition of the unit until they view it, and may lead to additional costs if upgrades or replacements are required.
Appliances and Kitchenware
2-bedroom serviced apartments are stocked with ready-to-use appliances and kitchenware. From kettles and toasters to cutlery sets and rice cookers, tenants can expect a fully move-in-ready experience. Additionally, essential consumables such as toiletries and cleaning supplies may be provided upon arrival and replenished regularly, depending on the lease package. This option is ideal for travellers or temporary residents who want to avoid the hassle of setting up a home from scratch.
Meanwhile, private apartments rarely come with a full kitchen inventory. Even in fully furnished units, tenants may need to purchase or bring their own kitchen utensils, small appliances, or cleaning equipment. While the major appliances such as a refrigerator and microwave are often included, the lack of smaller kitchen tools and consumables could require more initial effort for a fully functional living arrangement.
Maintenance and Replacements
Another furnishing-related difference is how maintenance and furniture replacement are handled. Ongoing maintenance in a 2-bedroom serviced apartment, including furniture repair or replacement, is covered by the management. Tenants can simply report an issue and expect prompt action. This approach is particularly convenient for those with tight schedules or who value hassle-free living.
Furniture maintenance in a private apartment falls under tenant-landlord agreements. While landlords are responsible for major issues, minor furniture defects may not be addressed promptly or at all, depending on the lease terms. Some landlords may even charge tenants for damage deemed beyond reasonable wear and tear, making it necessary to inspect and document the furniture’s condition during handover.
Conclusion
Choosing between a 2-bedroom serviced apartment and a private apartment in Singapore comes down to how much value you place on turnkey living, convenience, and furnishing quality. Serviced apartments provide a seamless solution if you need a fully equipped space ready for immediate use. However, if flexibility, customisation, or long-term cost savings are more significant, a private apartment may be the better route—provided you’re prepared to manage furniture needs and upkeep independently.
Contact Aurealis Serviced Residence and discover a rental that fits your lifestyle and furnishing needs.
