Before and After: Atmospheric Renovation of a Stalin-era Apartment

Designer Elena Zufarova gave new life to a three-room apartment in a Stalin-era building. As a result of the re-planning, functionality and ergonomics were improved. But to avoid the feeling of a 'newcomer,' the designer focused on natural materials and vintage elements in the finishing and furniture.

Kitchen Before Renovation

The kitchen was a separate room. Due to the elongated shape of the space, there was a lack of storage systems.

Kitchen After Renovation

The old passage into the kitchen was closed and a large refrigerator was placed in its spot. The feature of the resulting interior lies in the layout: placing the doors along the windows opened up space and changed its perception — the apartment seems larger, with more air and light.

The kitchen zone features ceramic granite with a plant-like pattern reminiscent of Art Nouveau motifs. All walls are painted with English paint to create a background for décor.

Bathroom Before Renovation

This was a typical separate bathroom in a Stalin-era apartment, with a window between the kitchen and the bathroom. The goal was to create a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space.

Bathroom After Renovation

The toilet and bathtub were combined into one large bathroom with a bathtub, shower, and spacious utility closet with a washing machine. The door was repositioned so that it is not visible from the entrance to the apartment.

The bathroom feature includes a gas water heater that cannot be moved, a load-bearing beam, and a ventilation duct. The floor is made of marble tiles — the client didn’t particularly like natural stone, but liked the calm white marble pattern. Additionally, the ceramic tiles in a complex brown-pink tone look even warmer against this background.

Daughter's Room Before Renovation

The room had only one window, and the structural beam disrupted the wall geometry. The goal was to mask flaws and emphasize the room's strengths.

Daughter's Room After Renovation

The interior became bright and modern, more youthful compared to other rooms. Nevertheless, it still maintains a cozy atmosphere thanks to an interesting chandelier, furniture in traditional style, and art.

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