Graphic designer Natalia took matters into her own hands to transform her rented two-room apartment, which hadn’t seen renovations since the 90s. The homeowner, who hadn’t visited the property in years, remains unaware of the significant makeover. The project took about six months, and despite limited resources, Natalia created a modern, stylish space that was both functional and visually appealing.

The design focused on making the most of affordable materials and furniture, with minimal alterations to the existing structure. In the living room, Natalia used light shades to visually expand the space, and painted the wooden floor white, helping it blend with the walls and create a more airy atmosphere. The furniture was a mix of old and new – the sofa, armchair, and shelving unit were brought from her parents’ home, while other pieces were purchased online.

In the kitchen, the main challenge was the floor. After removing layers of fiberboard, Natalia placed the kitchen unit along one wall and extended part of the countertop to hide the washing machine. The upper cabinets were replaced with open shelves, following a minimalist Scandinavian style. The old tiles were refreshed with white paint, tying them into the overall modern concept without needing to replace them.

The bedroom became a cozy retreat with handmade elements. Natalia constructed a bed from pallets and placed it by the window to maximize natural light. She incorporated a chest of drawers and an open hanger for storage, creating a practical and inviting space. The hallway was also revamped by painting the walls and floor white, with one partition receiving a creative treatment of graphic print wallpaper to add interest. Dark accents, like chalkboard-painted doors and accessories in dark tones, provided character to the space.

In the bathroom, the focus was on revitalizing existing features. The old tiles were kept but refreshed, and the bathtub was restored with an acrylic coating. The toilet was decorated in blue tones, complementing the graphic print wallpaper used in the hallway, creating a cohesive and stylish look throughout the apartment. By focusing on clever design solutions and DIY elements, Natalia was able to bring her vision to life without major repairs or a hefty budget.