How to Design a Successful Condo Renovation
Renovating a condo can be just as fun and rewarding as renovating a house. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind.
Look for ideas in home improvement and design magazines at your local newsstand or online. Attend home shows and gather pictures of rooms, homes, and products that you like.
Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans are a top trend in modern condo renovation design. They create a more spacious and airy look where living areas flow into each other. However, they do come with some drawbacks like sacrificing privacy and higher renovation costs.
The main advantage of an open floor plan is that it allows natural light to flow throughout the space, illuminating each area. In addition, they also help improve air quality, as the natural light helps reduce dust and allergens. Another benefit is that the layout flexibility allows for multiple furniture configurations. This can be helpful for entertaining and for accommodating changing family needs or preferences.
Residential open floor plans are typically created by removing partition walls. They are most popular in condominiums and apartments, but can be used in single-family homes. They combine kitchens, dining condo renovation design rooms, and living areas into one large space, often called a great room. They can also include a bar and entertainment center.
While the open floor plan has many advantages, it can be difficult to implement in older homes. In some cases, structural barriers may be needed to retain the separation between spaces. For instance, Lederman explains that if the kitchen is in the same space as the living room, there are ways to divide them without tearing down walls. “Such partitions can be achieved through the use of bookshelves, folding screens, and even the simple act of arranging furniture,” she says.
Large Wall Spaces
Condos often have large wall spaces that can be used for a variety of purposes. However, if overdesigned these areas can feel overwhelming and close off the condo’s open space. To avoid this, it’s best to keep these areas simple and use them for a small statement that doesn’t overwhelm the room.
For example, an accent wall could be used to show off a collection of items or a favorite painting. A lighted piece of art can draw the eye up to create an illusion of height and open space. Decorative wallpapers or patterns can also add interest to large walls.
When choosing a color palette for your condo, lighter colors help to open and lighten rooms. Darker colours can make a room feel smaller and less spacious. For this reason, it is recommended to experiment with different colour schemes on a mood board before the renovation work starts.
To further enhance the look of a room, strategically placed mirrors can make rooms appear larger and more spacious. Similarly, recessed lighting helps to illuminate and highlight areas of the room that might otherwise be overlooked with the standard ceiling lights.
Simple Design
Condos can be complicated to renovate, especially if they are older or have structural elements that can’t be altered. That’s why it’s important to know what you can and cannot do before you start your renovation project. Otherwise, you could be wasting time and money on ideas that are not realistic for your particular condo space.
Often, condo spaces have open floor plans that allow the kitchen and living room customized Flat Villa furniture to flow together seamlessly. That means that you’ll want your condo design to focus on a cohesive style that will last for years to come.
One way to achieve that is with a simple design. This is especially true for the living room, where you’ll want to avoid over-designing large walls. A simple color scheme will look modern and clean. If you do want to use a bold color in the living room, try using it as an accent wall or with furniture pieces that are more neutral in color.
You can also create a stylish, modern look with the use of a divider in the living room. This works well for condos with a lot of natural light, since it will still let in sunlight while keeping the space separate. Another option is to opt for a floating staircase instead of a traditional one. This looks modern and sleek while allowing natural light to flood the space.
Coordinated Materials
Condos have limited space and many renovation restrictions that differ from those of single-family homes. It is important to stay within those constraints and work with a contractor who knows the regulations for your condo building, so that your project runs smoothly.
Using materials that are easily matched will give your condo renovation a more cohesive look. This will help to tie your design together and reduce the cost of renovating. For example, a common trend for a kitchen renovation is to use a neutral color palette and mix and match cabinets, countertops, and flooring. This creates a modern look and saves on costs by being more versatile in the future.
You can also use a variety of materials to add some texture and interest to your condo renovation. For example, exposed brick walls add an urban appeal, while a hand painted pattern on an accent wall can make it feel more unique.
Choosing the right materials will not only help to save you money on renovation costs, but it can also reduce your environmental impact. Consider using sustainable materials such as cork or bamboo flooring and cabinetry. These can make a difference to the environment and can also cut energy costs in the long run. Using eco-friendly materials will help your condo renovation project remain code compliant, and may help to attract buyers if you ever decide to sell.
