As an interior designer, I get the privilege of transforming spaces and bringing a client’s vision to life. Recently, I had the pleasure of working on a renovation project for a charming 3-bedroom house. The goal was to breathe new life into the home while maintaining its original character, and of course, adapting the design to meet the modern-day needs of a family. Throughout the process, there were many challenges, but with each obstacle came an opportunity for creativity and problem-solving. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes of this renovation project—discussing the challenges we faced, how we overcame them, and offering a few tips for anyone considering a home renovation themselves.
Maximizing Small Spaces Without Feeling Cramped
The first major challenge we encountered was the size of the rooms. The house was small by modern standards, and while it had three bedrooms, none of them were large enough to accommodate both the needs of a growing family and the necessary furniture for each room. The goal was to make each space functional without making them feel overcrowded.
To tackle this, I focused on maximising storage and introducing multi-functional furniture. In the bedrooms, we used built-in shelving, custom closets, and sleek storage benches to keep the rooms clutter-free. For the kids' room, we opted for lofted beds, which allowed for a study space or play area underneath. The key here was to integrate clever storage solutions that didn’t overwhelm the room.
Designer Tip:
When renovating smaller rooms, focus on vertical space! Shelving, tall wardrobes, and lofted furniture can create the illusion of more room while serving a functional purpose.
Outdated Kitchen Layout
The kitchen was, without a doubt, the most outdated part of the house. The cabinets were in good shape, but the layout was cramped, and the flow was inefficient. The family loved to cook together, but there was simply not enough counter space, and it was difficult for multiple people to move around comfortably.
After discussing the family’s needs, we decided to open up the kitchen into the adjacent dining area. This required knocking down a non-load-bearing wall, which instantly created an airy, open-plan space. The new layout included a central island, perfect for meal prep and socializing. To maximize storage, we added cabinets that reached the ceiling, a pantry pull-out system, and clever corner storage. We also swapped out traditional materials for sleek, low-maintenance finishes like quartz countertops and subway tiles, keeping the design both practical and visually appealing.
Designer Tip:
When tackling a kitchen renovation, think about the “work triangle”—the ideal relationship between the sink, stove, and fridge. Also, don’t underestimate the value of an open-plan layout—it makes the space feel larger and more welcoming.
Lighting, Lighting, Lighting
One of the most difficult aspects of this project was lighting. The house had limited natural light, with a few small windows scattered throughout. This created a dark, somewhat gloomy atmosphere, especially in the living room and hallway. Despite the house's charm, it lacked the brightness that’s often associated with a modern home.
We had to get creative with both natural and artificial lighting. In the living room, we replaced heavy drapery with sheer, light-colored curtains that allowed as much sunlight in as possible. For the darker rooms, we incorporated multiple layers of lighting: ambient lighting (recessed lights in the ceiling), task lighting (pendant lights over the kitchen island), and accent lighting (wall sconces to create a warm atmosphere). We also added mirrors strategically to reflect light and create a sense of space.
Designer Tip:
Lighting can transform a space. Use a combination of light sources to create depth, and always make sure to balance natural light with well-placed artificial lighting.
Maintaining the Home's Character
While it was important to update the house with modern conveniences, the family also wanted to preserve the home's original charm. The house had beautiful hardwood floors and a vintage fireplace that needed to be showcased. Striking the balance between modern design and vintage charm proved to be a delicate challenge.
We decided to incorporate elements of both worlds by retaining key features like the fireplace and wood floors, but we updated them with a more polished, contemporary aesthetic. The fireplace was restored with a fresh coat of white paint and surrounded by a clean-lined mantel. For the floors, we chose a lighter wood stain that complemented the rest of the home’s modern finishes without losing that cozy, timeless appeal.
Designer Tip:
When renovating, be sure to preserve elements that bring character to the home. It’s often the details—like a vintage fireplace or a unique trim—that give your home personality and make it stand out from cookie-cutter designs.
Budget Constraints
No renovation project is without its budget constraints, and this one was no exception. We had to balance the desire for high-end finishes with the financial realities of the project. The key was prioritising what mattered most and finding cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing quality.
We opted for high-impact, affordable materials in some areas—like laminate cabinetry instead of custom wood in the kitchen—while splurging on finishes that would really make the space pop, such as the quartz countertops and designer light fixtures. Negotiating with suppliers for discounts and exploring local artisans for custom pieces also helped stretch the budget further.
Designer Tip:
Be clear about your priorities and set a realistic budget. Spend where it counts, like on appliances and finishes that are used daily, but don't be afraid to explore less expensive options for elements that are less visible, like cabinetry or hardware.
Final Thoughts
Transforming a 3-bedroom house comes with its fair share of challenges, but a renovation journey is also an incredibly rewarding process. In our case, the end result is a space that feels both fresh and functional, with every corner thoughtfully designed to suit the family’s lifestyle. If you're thinking about your own renovation, my best advice is to plan ahead, stay flexible, and lean into creativity.
Remember: it’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that feels like home. Whether you’re dealing with small spaces, outdated layouts, or budget constraints, with the right approach, you can transform any house into your dream home.
Happy renovating!
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