Unit is perfect for one, I would think too small for 2. I moved bed along window so I could sit in bed and look at view, which is great. It is very tight, as not much space between bed and kitchen. Yes, you can hear the whine of the lift and initially I thought it would drive me nuts but I got used to it and not an issue. Street noise also but this is pretty standard in central Waikiki. I really liked it, would stay again.