Repair in a Standard Two-Room Apartment: 5 Tips from a Transformed Brezhnev-era Flat Worth Noting

Even in a standard layout, you can create an interior with character. This project is a successful example: designer Ilnura Rafikova decorated the apartment for a young IT professional who is passionate about fashion and comfort. The space turned out memorable and well-thought-out: no square meter was wasted, and visual expressiveness blends with functionality.

We gathered five tips that will come in handy if you're planning a renovation in a standard apartment.

Combine the Bathroom and Toilet to Expand It and Fit Everything You Need

In typical two-room flats, the bathroom is often cramped and makes it hard to place appliances. Here, the designer combined the bathroom and toilet and slightly enlarged the space by using part of the corridor. Thanks to this trick, there's now room for a niche with a washing machine and dryer, plus a spacious technical cabinet above the installation.

Design by Ilnura Rafikova

Paint the Entrance Hall in a Bold Color — It's Not Only Pretty but Also Practical

Instead of the classic beige-gray palette, the designer chose a soft blue tone in the entrance hall. It sets the tone from the first step and harmonizes with vibrant accents in other rooms. Two mirror cabinets solve storage issues, and a colorful shoe cabinet completes the design and adds a playful element.

Design by Ilnura Rafikova

Make the Kitchen Compact but Not Cluttered

In this L-shaped kitchen, the designer opted out of upper cabinets on one wall to preserve a sense of openness. The cabinet was chosen in a rich green color, which became the visual center, while the dining area was styled with colorful chairs — it's easy to replicate.

Design by Ilnura Rafikova

Transform the Balcony into a Functional Space, Not Just a Storage Room

The balcony was styled as a relaxation zone: with a place for storage and a spot to sit with a book or cup of tea. This space adds coziness to the apartment and expands usage scenarios.

Design by Ilnura Rafikova

Play with Color Contrasts and Add Fashion Posters

Contrast combinations are actively used throughout the interior: green with brass, pink with warm wood, black-and-white graphics. This makes the project vibrant and current. Fashion-themed posters and decorative lights complement the atmosphere and reflect the owner’s interests.

Design by Ilnura Rafikova

Each element of the apartment can be adapted to your own interior. The key is not to fear color and find a balance between aesthetics and functionality.