Graphic designer Natalia took on the challenge of revamping her outdated two-room rented apartment, untouched since the ’90s. The owner, who hadn’t visited in years, remains unaware of the dramatic makeover. Over six months, Natalia transformed the space into a stylish, modern haven, all while working with limited resources.
Her approach was to maximize affordable materials and furniture, with minimal changes to the apartment’s original structure. In the living room, she used light colors to make the space feel larger and painted the wooden floor white, blending it seamlessly with the walls for an airy, open atmosphere. The furniture mix included items from her parents’ home and some new pieces purchased online.
The kitchen was tricky, especially with the floor. After removing layers of fiberboard, Natalia placed the kitchen unit along one wall and extended the countertop to conceal the washing machine. She replaced upper cabinets with open shelving, embracing a minimalist Scandinavian style. The old tiles were refreshed with white paint, aligning them with the modern concept without needing a full replacement.
In the bedroom, Natalia created a cozy retreat with handmade elements, including a pallet bed placed by the window to bring in more natural light. She added practical storage solutions, like a chest of drawers and an open hanger.
The hallway got a makeover with white walls and floor, while one partition featured bold graphic print wallpaper for added visual interest. Dark accents, such as chalkboard-painted doors and dark-toned accessories, gave the space character.
In the bathroom, Natalia revitalized the existing features, including painting the old tiles and restoring the bathtub with an acrylic coating. The toilet was given a blue accent, tying in with the graphic print wallpaper in the hallway, ensuring a cohesive look throughout the apartment. By using smart design ideas and DIY projects, Natalia managed to achieve her vision on a small budget without major renovations.