Designer in Shock: How to Renovate a Khrushchyovka and Save a Million

Do you think modern renovation in a Khrushchyovka necessarily requires a large budget and a team of specialists? In fact, you can create a stylish space and save significantly if you know a few professional secrets.

Main points from the article:

• Some work can be done yourself;

• You can save 30-40% on materials;

• Relocation is not always necessary;

• Budget alternatives to expensive solutions;

• Proper planning is key.

Where you can save without compromising quality

Wall finishing

• Instead of expensive wallpaper — quality painting;

• Decorative plastering by yourself;

• Accent wall instead of finishing all walls;

• Wallpaper only in the bedroom, in other rooms — paint.

Flooring

• Quality linoleum instead of parquet;

• Tiles only in high-moisture zones;

• Mid-range laminate in living rooms;

• Cork flooring as an alternative to parquet.

Kitchen: Main Tricks

• Replace only cabinet doors instead of the entire set;

• Ready-made modules instead of custom kitchen;

• Artificial stone countertop instead of natural;

• Spot use of expensive tiles;

• Open shelving instead of upper cabinets.

Design: Elena Uchaeva

Bathroom

Budget solutions:

• Accent tiles only in key zones;

• Large format tiles to save on labor;

• Quality ceramic granite instead of natural stone;

• Ready-made cabinet instead of custom furniture.

Design: Alexandra Kryuchkova

Lighting without overpaying

• Recessed lights instead of expensive chandeliers;

• LED strips for zoning;

• Budget tracks instead of built-in lighting;

• Floor standing lanterns instead of wall sconces.

Storage Systems

Economical solutions:

• Integrated wardrobes from ready-made modules;

• Loft storage to ceiling;

• Multifunctional furniture;

• Storage systems in hallway instead of wardrobe.

Design: Natalia Borisenkova

What you can do yourself

• Demolition of old finishing;

• Wall spackling;

• Painting;

• Laying laminate;

• Assembly of simple furniture.

Where you cannot save

Engineering systems:

• Electrical wiring;

• Sanitary pipes;

• Ventilation;

• Hydro-isolation in bathroom.

Safety:

• Material quality;

• Professional window installation;

• Load-bearing structure inspection;

• Certified electrical installation.

Smart solutions for small spaces

• Light tones for visual expansion;

• Mirror surfaces;

• Transformable furniture;

• Vertical storage.

Steps for economical renovation

Preparation:

• Detailed work plan;

• Material calculation;

• Search for discounts and promotions;

• Choosing the season for renovation.

Implementation:

• Work sequence;

• Expense control;

• Working with trusted craftsmen;

• Proper process organization.

Design: Anastasia Gurova, Maria Gulbekyan

Common mistakes

• Saving on rough materials;

• Incorrect work sequence;

• Purchasing materials without a surplus;

• Lack of clear plan.

Pro tips from professionals

• Do the renovation in stages;

• Start with the most complex works;

• Purchase materials in bulk;

• Seek alternative solutions;

• Consult with specialists.

Remember that saving money on renovation should not mean buying the cheapest materials. It's important to find a balance between price and quality so that the result brings joy for years to come.

Cover: Design project by Anastasia Gurova