September 23, 2024 – Designed by Doruntina Kupina – Pristine, Kosovo
With a 35 – sq m (377 sq ft) footprint to utilise, the goal was to create a space that combines functionality and style—perfect for eating, relaxing, working, and sleeping, all while ensuring it could comfortably accommodate guests as a short-term rental flat.
Since the flat is designed to accommodate guests, we ensured that it offers a welcoming and stylish experience. From carefully curated décor to functional furniture from Hazel and Hearth, every detail has been considered to appeal to travellers who value both comfort and aesthetics. The flexible layout ensures that the apartment can cater to various needs, whether it’s a couple on vacation or a professional needing a temporary home office.
Before we could bring our vision to life, the apartment needed a complete renovation. The original layout felt cramped and divided, so we decided to tear down the wall that separated the living room from the kitchen. This move not only opened the space but also allowed natural light to flow freely throughout the apartment, giving it a bright and airy atmosphere. By unifying the living and kitchen areas, we created a central space where guests can cook, dine, and relax comfortably.
To keep the project within budget, instead of opting for high-end finishes, we sourced durable, affordable materials that still offered a modern, sleek aesthetic.
Multifunctional Spaces for Maximum Value
A Practical and Spacious Entryway: One standout feature is the entryway, which includes a spacious wardrobe with shelving. This thoughtful addition allows guests to fully unpack and settle in for their stay, adding a level of comfort and convenience. The wardrobe was designed to keep the entryway clutter-free, while offering plenty of space to store luggage, shoes, and other personal items. This detail ensures that the apartment feels more like a home rather than a temporary stop, enhancing the guest experience.
Overcoming Bathroom Challenges: The bathroom was one of the most challenging aspects of this renovation, as it was in very poor condition. When we first started, the space had exposed pipes, giving it an unfinished and dated look. The ventilation system was awkwardly mounted on the wall, further limiting the available space and aesthetics. Moreover, the washing machine was originally located inside the bathroom, which made the small area feel even more cramped.
To address these issues and make the bathroom more functional and appealing, we made some changes:
- Concealing the pipes: We installed a clean, modern finish to hide the exposed plumbing, creating a more polished and streamlined look.
- Relocating the ventilation: The ventilation system was repositioned to allow for better airflow while improving the overall design. We opted for a ceiling-mounted solution, which opened the wall space and gave the bathroom a cleaner appearance.
- Removing the washing machine: To free up valuable space, we decided to relocate the washing machine outside of the bathroom. This change allowed us to reconfigure the layout, providing more room for guests to move comfortably. It also gave the bathroom a more spacious and functional feel.
Stylish Furnishings for Comfort: To enhance the aesthetic and comfort of the space, we selected furniture pieces from Hazel and Hearth. Known for their balance of style and practicality, they brought a warm and inviting feel to the apartment. The cozy yet sleek design of pieces ensured that the space felt modern, stylish, and comfortable, perfectly suited for guests seeking both function and beauty during their stay.
Living and sleeping: The bed was strategically attached near the windows to create a sense of separation between the sleeping area and the relaxing/living area. This design decision not only provided a visual divide but also ensured the bed was positioned to offer comfort and relaxation. To maximize functionality, we utilized the small area next to the bed to create a stylish, compact vanity space, allowing guests to prepare for the day or unwind at night with ease.
Kitchen designed for function: Despite the limited footprint, the kitchen was thoughtfully designed to provide ample space for cooking and storage. Every inch was optimized to ensure that all necessary appliances and utensils could be easily stored, and countertops were arranged to allow enough space for food preparation. With well-organized cabinetry, this kitchen offers both functionality and comfort for guests who wish to cook during their stay.
Dining and workspace combo: We incorporated a kitchen island that functions as a dining and as a work desk. This simple solution allowed us to create a functional eating and work area without requiring extra space.