Nobody wanted to go near this gloomy apartment… except us. My husband and I decided to take the risk. 💪😏 Despite its pitiful condition, we saw potential. Even our loved ones doubted us, but we far exceeded their expectations! 😍👍 Today, people can’t believe their eyes: “Is this really the same apartment?” 😯
📸 Check out the before/after photos in this article, linked in the first comment below 👇👇👇👇!
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the City
Our goal? To find a place downtown. Eventually, we chose an old apartment in a historic building that hadn’t been renovated in over 50 years. Needless to say, no one dared to buy it. But we dove in headfirst!
The apartment spans 54 square meters (about 580 sq. ft). Right from the start, we discovered that the building’s foundation had shifted: some windows were misaligned by up to 15 cm, and ceiling heights varied from 3.30 to 3.45 meters depending on the room.
A Clever and Complete Makeover
Originally, the apartment had two standard rooms, a tiny kitchen, and a separate bathroom. Today, it looks completely different: we created a large open-plan kitchen and living area, a master bedroom, a child’s bedroom, and even a walk-in closet.
During renovations, we uncovered a stunning brick wall with original arches, hidden under layers of old coverings. Once cleaned, we painted the bricks white to bring in more light and character. We also added Scandinavian-style elements, for a warm yet modern feel.
An Interior Full of Character and Inspiration
Passionate about vintage furniture, we carefully selected each piece to reflect our love for history and authenticity. In the kitchen, all the walls are white—except for one decorated with patterned tiles that instantly catch the eye.
As for the bathroom, it’s accessible from the living room through a colorful sliding door. The vanity and mirror were chosen in an Asian style, a nod to our love of Eastern cultures, which deeply inspired us during the renovation.
A Bold Bet That Became a Life Project
This project didn’t just transform a place—it changed our lives. What was once an abandoned old apartment has become our sanctuary, a space that reflects who we are, where every detail tells a story.
