How to Transform an Old Apartment and Furniture Without Renovation

This 35-square-meter one-room apartment is located in the historical center of Stockholm and fully corresponds to it due to the original 19th-century details preserved inside. For example, large double-hung windows with metal catches, a nearly museum wooden buffet on the kitchen, and numerous decorations: a brass watering can, a bronze candlestick, and antique dishes.

They did not change the layout of the apartment: a spacious living room, a separate kitchen with an alcove, a tiny bedroom, and even a storage room remained in the same place.

The main detail that unites the new and old is a deep blue finish on windows, doors, and partially on furniture. The secret lies in extending this blue color throughout the apartment: designers refreshed the interior without renovation.

The living room's backdrop is white. The austerity of white and cold blue is balanced by plants, warm wooden furniture, floor, and paintings. Note how they are hung: to avoid making unnecessary holes in the walls, they used track rails. All paintings are held by nylon threads and can be easily moved without leaving marks.

The kitchen is narrow, but thanks to an abundance of daylight from the large window, it appears much more spacious. The main exhibit here is a buffet made of oak. It’s the oldest tenant in the apartment, but updated in blue and with new metal handles, it doesn’t lag behind trendy kitchen cabinets.

Gray cabinet fronts blend perfectly into the overall white-blue palette. With reflective surfaces—such as a tiled backsplash and metal countertop—the kitchen looks bright and spacious.

It’s interesting that in the alcove by the window, they decided to add an extra relaxation zone, while the dining table was moved from the kitchen into the living room.

In the small bedroom, there was only room for a bed. Designers intentionally kept this room free of bright details to create a calm space for sleep and rest.

The bathroom is simple but cozy. The shower curtain was replaced with a glass screen—this makes the space look more spacious and stylish.

In the hallway, a large mirrored wardrobe was fitted, which serves as a dressing room.

Layout

Source: Historiskahem