Before and After: 5 Transformations of Living Rooms That Will Amaze You

The living room is not just a room, but a place where the family gathers in the evenings, hosts guests, and spends the best moments of everyday life. Therefore, transforming the space always arouses special interest: inspiration, comfort, and wow effect are desired.

We have collected real examples where old, outdated, or simply lifeless living rooms were given a new life. See what can be done even with the most challenging spaces.

Rural Comfort and Boho Vibes

When Julia moved with her husband into a rented apartment in a Moscow-brushkovka building, the living room looked dull and lifeless. Old wallpaper, outdated furniture, and lack of concept created a feeling of neglect. But the couple decided to completely transform the space by themselves without designers and significant investments.

Photo before renovation

The walls were covered with cement plaster, which gave them a stylish texture, and the decorative fireplace became the focal point, adding an atmosphere of a country house. Paintings created by Julia herself were hung above the sofa, and her husband’s workspace was decorated with guitars reflecting his hobbies.

Julia Bobrovskaia

Cheap but Thoughtful

Roman bought a 1964-built apartment and did the renovation for 400 thousand rubles, including furniture. The main principle: no excesses and maximum utility. In the living room, the floor was leveled, budget laminate was laid, the ceiling was whitewashed, and wallpaper was applied.

Photo before renovation

Light and comfort were added with inexpensive wall sconces, a mirror with backlighting, and paintings. Furniture was partially bought on "Avito," and decorative elements were purchased at construction stores. The result: a simple but neat living room, perfectly suited for an apartment to rent.

Design: Roman Myinzheraru

Modern Living Room with a Desk by the Window

In a typical Moscow-brushkovka building, designer Iloona Rafikova created an interior for a young client without major re-planning. In the project, the living room serves multiple purposes: it is not only a relaxation zone with a sofa and TV but also includes a fully functional workspace by the window.

Photo before renovation

Contrasts in finishing, brass wall sconces, a textured armchair, and black-and-white posters add accents, while proper lighting makes the atmosphere cozy. Thanks to minimalist zoning and thoughtfully designed details, the space became ergonomic and expressive.

Design: Iloona Rafikova

Redesigned Accents and a Work Zone

In a former residential building from 1911, the tenants updated the interior on their own without big expenses. The main task was to revive the gray-and-white living room and create a workspace. The homeowners partially updated the furniture, covered the walls with Venetian plaster, added a soft rug, fairy lights, bright armchairs, and tables.

Photo before renovation

The standout feature worth attention is two workspaces with identical tables, blending with the parquet. A cozy and creative interior was achieved without designers: everything came together thanks to the hosts' good taste and rich imagination.

Design: Bernarda and Yaroslav Kuznetsov

Pay Attention to the Video: Burgundy Accents and Decorative Stove

Actress Ekaterina Lastochkina independently decorated the interior of an apartment in a 1950s-era building. The living room became a reflection of her vibrant personality: the walls were painted beige and burgundy, while blue moldings add depth.

Design: Ekaterina Lastochkina

The central element was a round cast iron stove, which covers the heating pipe and serves as a decorative element with firewood and candles. The design is completed by French windows, creating an atmosphere of a traditional European house. The interior turned out to be unique and very cozy.

Design: Ekaterina Lastochkina

Transformations prove that the living room is a space reflecting the character of its owners, and even in standard apartments, it's possible to create a stylish and functional interior if you approach the task with attention to details.