Before and After: Transformation of a 53 sqm 'Boring' Two-Room Apartment

Designer Lana Alexandrova decorated a two-room apartment in a Khrushchyovka for her mother. The goal was to expand the existing space and make the ceilings visually higher. The windows face northwest and are blocked by trees, so a light color palette was chosen.

Kitchen before renovation:

The kitchen was isolated, small, and very cramped. The aim was to increase functionality in this area, create multiple storage systems, and set up a spot for quick snacks near the window.

Kitchen after renovation:

The kitchen was merged with the living room to implement all the owner's wishes. The cabinet was installed at an angle. A tall wall-mounted cabinet accommodated both the household appliances and food storage. An integrated refrigerator was chosen, and upper cabinets were only on one wall, hidden from view — this made the kitchen look harmonious, unified, light, and functional at the same time.

The countertop was extended onto the windowsill: it can now be used as a spot for snacks or working on a laptop.

Living room before renovation:

This was a very dark space, despite the large window — the reason being that it faced the balcony. It was necessary to organize a dining area and a relaxation zone with a sofa.

Living room after renovation:

The balcony was freed from unnecessary elements, and the door was replaced with a full-glass one to bring in more light. The walls are light-colored. On a small area, a round dining table, a small sofa, and a TV area were arranged.

Bedroom before renovation:

The bedroom has a second balcony, and it was important to organize the space so that access to the balcony wouldn’t be blocked by the bed.

Bedroom after renovation:

The balcony door was also replaced with a glass one, and the finishing was changed. The double bed fit in perfectly — there’s enough space for walking around.

Bathroom before renovation:

The bathroom was a shared one, but very cramped and unattractive — in standard white square tiles. One of the tasks was to relocate the gas boiler, which spoiled the view.

Bathroom after renovation:

A reconfiguration was made and the plumbing arranged so that everyone can use it conveniently. The gas boiler was moved to the wall above the washing machine — now it doesn’t interfere with taking a shower. The tiles were replaced with white 'calf' and paint.

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