Cosmetic refresh with maximum impact

Tucked away on a leafy, tranquil street, it was a charming apartment full of untapped potential. Surrounded by a generous garden and blessed with abundant windows, the home had beautiful bones, but its interiors told a different story. Worn finishes, dated fixtures, and a sense of tiredness hung in the air. The client, working with a modest budget but bold aspirations, set out to transform the space without straying too far from its original charm.

The original kitchen featured red laminate cabinetry, dark benchtops, and tired appliances. While the layout still worked well, the materials felt heavy and outdated. Our focus was on a light and bright aesthetic, using neutral, non-polarising finishes to appeal to both the current owner and potential buyers. A simple cosmetic update brought new energy to the space without altering its structure.

Both bathrooms lacked natural light and storage, but their existing layouts worked. To keep costs low, we retained the structure and introduced new vanities, showers, toilets, and simple tiling. Timber veneer vanities added warmth, while a clean, consistent palette helped brighten each room.

Throughout the apartment, we replaced deteriorating bedroom carpets and worn-out cupboards. The existing, red-toned blinds matched the original kitchen but provided little light control or insulation. These were swapped out for more effective, neutral alternatives. The laminate flooring, along with damaged skirtings, showed significant wear and tear, so both were replaced. A full repaint brought everything together, giving the apartment a fresh, cohesive feel.

The transformation created a home that feels light, open, and easy to live in - whether for long-term enjoyment or future resale. A simple landscaping update completed the project, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection and adding to the relaxed, contemporary lifestyle the space now offers.