How to turn a marshmallow into a candy: 10 proven methods for a reasonable price

Low ceilings, small rooms, and outdated layouts are typical problems of Soviet-era apartments. But even such an apartment can be transformed into a modern and comfortable living space. We’ll show you how to renovate it without spending a fortune or undertaking complicated repairs.

Definition

• Most of these modifications don’t require official approval for redesign;

• The cost of basic renovations ranges from 100,000 rubles;

• Many tasks can be done by yourself;

• A minimal budget will still yield noticeable results.

First tip: clever use of the ceiling

Soviet-era apartments rarely have ceilings higher than 2.5 meters, but there are ways to make them appear taller. Replace bulky chandeliers with spotlights or strip lights—they only take up 3–4 centimeters in height, compared to hanging ceilings that can consume up to 10 cm.

Light, matte ceilings visually increase the room’s height. Bright, glossy ceilings, on the other hand, often look out of place and highlight any uneven walls.

Second tip: remove unnecessary partitions

Cupboards, storage spaces under beds, and built-in cabinets often take up valuable living space. Removing them (if they aren’t load-bearing) can add up to 2–3 square meters of extra space. Make sure to confirm beforehand that the partition isn’t essential.

Replace old cabinets with modern wall-mounted storage solutions—they take up less space and look neater.

Design: Pavel Foteev

Third tip: integrate the balcony into the living space

Connecting the balcony to the living area can add up to 3–4 square meters of extra space. You can use it as a work area or a relaxation zone. However, remember that you need official approval and proper insulation.

If a full integration isn’t possible, install insulating glass and remove any unnecessary structures. This way, you’ll gain more space without breaking the law.

Design: Blogger Svetlana

Fourth tip: play with lighting

Soviet-era apartments usually have small windows. Increase the amount of light by replacing heavy curtains with lightweight ones, installing mirrors near the windows, and painting the walls in light colors.

Create multiple lighting layers: in addition to main lighting, add table lamps, floor fixtures, and task lights in specific areas.

Fifth tip: arrange furniture wisely

In small spaces, every centimeter counts. Choose furniture that fits well within the room’s dimensions:

• Replace a bulky bed set with a sofa-bed;
• Use a folding dining table;
• Opt for wall-mounted cabinets instead of floor chests;
• Choose modular furniture to save space.

Image: Apartment, tips for renovating a Soviet-era apartment on a budget, budget-friendly interior design, how to renovate on a limited budget – photo from our website

Design: ADMstudio

Sixth tip: modernize the walls

Avoid heavy wallpaper with bold patterns—it tends to make the space feel cramped. Choose:

• Light-colored, monochromatic wallpaper;
• Wall paint that doesn’t take up much space;
• Decorative plastering with a minimal texture.

You can also highlight one wall with a contrasting color or texture to add depth to the room.

Seventh tip: update the doorsOld doors with peeling paint make the apartment look shabby. Replacing them instantly improves the overall appearance. Choose:

• Light-colored wood veneer doors;
• Doors with glass inserts;
• Sliding doors to save space.

Eighth tip: organize storage wiselyIn a Soviet-era apartment, it’s essential to plan the storage area carefully:

• Utilize the space under the ceiling;
• Make use of the space under the bed;
• Install shelves on doors;
• Use pull-out cabinets in closets.

Image: Apartment, tips for renovating a Soviet-era apartment on a budget, budget-friendly interior design, how to renovate on a limited budget – photo from our website

Design: Ksenia Shakhmatova

Ninth tip: renovate the floorOld linoleum or creaky parquet are sure signs of an outdated apartment. Modern flooring options can completely transform the space:

• Light-colored laminate;
• Vinyl tiles;
• Cork flooring.

Choose light-colored flooring and lay it in a diagonal pattern to make the room appear larger.

Tenth tip: smart kitchen solutionsKitchens in Soviet-era apartments are usually no more than 6 square meters. Make them functional by:

• Installing corner cabinets with pull-out shelves;
• Using narrow, built-in appliances;
• Creating a work surface above the kitchen island;
• Replacing traditional walls with sliding panels.

  How much does it cost?

  The basic renovation of a Soviet-era apartment (without replacing utilities) will cost:

  • Minimum budget: 100,000 rubles (for minor DIY repairs);
  • Average budget: 300,000–500,000 rubles (including door and furniture replacements);
  • Maximum budget: 800,000 rubles (for major renovations and new furniture).

  You can save money by:

  • Doing simple tasks yourself;
  • Purchasing materials at sales;
  • Carrying out the renovation in phases;
  • Upgrading old furniture instead of buying new ones.

  Things you can’t cut corners on include:

  • Electrical wiring;
  • Sanitary works;
  • Insulation for the balcony if it’s being integrated into the living space;
  • The quality of flooring materials.
    Remember that even small changes can make a big difference. The key is to plan the work carefully and allocate your budget wisely.

    Cover design: Pavel Foteev