Before and After: How They Transformed a Small Hall in a Panel House

This apartment in a typical panel house of series II-57 was designed by designer Yana Gaevska for a young couple. Let's see how the entrance hall was decorated — the updated interior differs drastically from the "before" version.

Initially, the entrance hall was decorated without attention to details: outdated wallpapers, no decor, minimal lighting. The only feature was the well-preserved parquet laid in a tree pattern in the entry area. A narrow corridor led from the entrance hall to the kitchen, with inter-room arches. The design and functional layout needed careful planning.

The parquet at the entrance was preserved, retrimmed, and incorporated into the overall design with fresh touches. The floor in the corridor is ceramic granite, and the walls are painted with light, washable paint. The front door is new, featuring a mounted milled panel. It can easily be replaced if needed. The absurd arches were removed and the ceiling was painted in the color of the walls, thus adding volume and depth to this small space.

The floor mirror at the entrance emphasizes the shape of the ceiling light fixture and wall sconce. The built-in cabinet with slatted doors serves for storage, and the electrical panel is hidden inside. A niche under the cabinet with a "warm floor" is provided for everyday shoes. For lighting, a set of Soviet-era light fixtures made in Yugoslavia was installed.

There was space found in the entrance hall for a shoe cabinet-combination in a pleasant natural wood tone. The countertop is convenient for placing a bag or keys, and can also be beautifully decorated.