Cool Ideas for Renovation We Spotted in a Stalin-era Apartment

Masha Kunyaquina decorated a trendy 54 sq. m apartment located near the New Monastery. The location is fantastic, but the apartment size is quite modest for a family with two children. The zoning problem was solved through re-planning, and the feeling of spaciousness was enhanced with decorative techniques. We share the most interesting ideas.

Narrow Kitchen Bar Counter

The functionality of the kitchen was increased with re-planning. However, there wasn't enough height in the window opening to use the sill as a bar counter. So the designer came up with a narrow countertop at a second level — it became a convenient spot for a quick breakfast or a snack during the day.

Many Mirrors

Mirrors expand space — this is a well-known fact. How can this be used in interior design? For example, instead of regular cabinet doors, use mirror ones. Or add a mirror insert above the door — it creates an interesting effect.

Antiformal Layout

The main design technique was playing with space, intended to create an illusion of more room than actually exists. For this purpose, an antiformal layout was used, connecting the bedroom, living room, and kitchen.

Sliding Doors

To isolate the kitchen and bedroom from the living room, sliding doors were installed. On the other side of the wall, a full-height mirror was mounted — it creates the illusion of another door opening. When the sliding door is open, it seems like you can walk around the wall.

Sill as a Writing Desk

This is an excellent solution when you need to save space. Part of the countertop lies on the window opening, so the desk doesn't take up much room.

Cabinets in Wall Color

To blend the cabinets into the room, they were painted in wall color. Sometimes it's hard to find perfectly matching paint tones for cabinet doors and wall colors. In such cases, it’s better to buy the simplest cabinet doors and paint them with the same color as the walls.

Storage Systems on Both Sides of the Window

This solution not only increases space functionality but also helps hide thin heating pipes if they exist. For them, you’ll need to plan cutouts in the furniture.

Door to Ceiling

A door reaching up to the ceiling creates an impression of very high ceilings. In this interior, the effect was enhanced with mirror inserts — they reflect the opposite wall and make the room seem larger.