This project was about more than just updating a condo; it was a complete home makeover. A lovely couple, returning clients of ours, came to us with a specific goal: to transform their small one-bedroom condo in the city. It had been a rental for years, but now their son would be moving in, and they wanted it to truly feel like his own space. They envisioned a home that was both easy to live in and looked great – a place where their son would feel comfortable, inspired, and really happy to call it home. It was all about taking a simple rental and turning it into a thoughtfully designed home.
Project Details
- Total Remodel Cost:
- Construction Timeline:
- 1 Month – December 1, 2024 – January 10, 2025
- Designer:
- Project Manager:
- Pre-Renovation Drawings:
- Proposed Renovation Drawings:
- 3d Proposed Drawings:
From Rental to Dream Home: Our Condo Transformation Story
When we first saw the condo, even though it was compact, we could see its potential. However, it showed the wear and tear of being a rental with some outdated finishes. The kitchen was a key issue, with a large, awkward island that blocked movement and wasn’t very useful. The closets in the entrance and bedroom had basic organizers that didn’t really meet everyday needs. And the flooring, a mix of thin wood and laminate, made the space feel disconnected. Plus, the small beige tiles in the kitchen on the floor and backsplash made it feel even smaller. The cream walls just added to the old-fashioned feel. Even the bathroom had seen better days, with mold and grime in the aging tiles. This condo renovation was a great chance to really maximize the space and introduce modern design.
Why Trust Matters: Learning from a Previous Renovation
The family was excited about the home renovation, and for good reason. As returning clients, they already knew our commitment to quality and problem-solving. They specifically remembered a previous frustrating experience where other contractors had mishandled the flooring in their other home – an issue our team at Sosna successfully rectified. This time, finding a trustworthy team that would do quality work and collaborate well was a top priority. Their past positive experience with us, especially how we resolved their previous flooring issues, is what brought them back to Sosna.
BEFORE
AFTER
Smart Design: The Kitchen Transformation
We started by getting to know our client’s son, and completely rethinking the kitchen layout. We kept the basic shape but replaced the bulky island with a more efficient peninsula. This immediately made the space feel more open, improved how you moved around, and even added much-needed storage and a longer countertop – perfect for someone who enjoys cooking. For the style, we aimed for a clean, simple look called Japandi. We used light wood-look cabinets, soft quartz countertops with a leathered texture, and a large porcelain tile backsplash that created a calm and modern feel. We added subtle touches like brushed nickel and stainless steel for the fixtures, and modern accents with black cabinet hardware, a sleek ceiling light, and integrated LED lighting under the upper cabinets. This kitchen renovation focused on both beauty and practicality.
BEFORE
AFTER
Seamless Flooring: Creating a Sense of Unity
Throughout the condo, we removed the old, mismatched flooring and installed new materials that looked cohesive and felt great underfoot. We used medium-gray porcelain tiles in the entryway and kitchen, which flowed seamlessly into light wood-toned vinyl planks in the living room and bedroom. Because the tile and vinyl had different thicknesses, we carefully installed a leveling compound under the vinyl to ensure a smooth, even surface throughout. It’s a subtle detail that really elevates the overall feel of the condo interior design.
Smart Storage: Making Everyday Life Easier
We completely rebuilt the closets in the entrance and bedroom with custom organizers designed specifically for their son. In the bedroom, we also replaced the closet doors, giving the space a cleaner, more finished look. And to refresh everything, we painted the entire unit in a nice, neutral, modern color palette that softens the space and allows the new materials to really shine. These custom storage solutions are key for efficient small space living.
Managing the Schedule: A Holiday Renovation
During the construction, we were fortunate to avoid major issues. However, coordinating the schedule with the condo board’s rules, especially during the holiday season, required careful planning. We managed delivery times and the schedules of different workers precisely, ensuring the project stayed on track and was completed on time. Effective project management is crucial for successful condo renovations.
Finding Common Ground: Balancing Design Ideas
One of the most interesting parts of this project was the design process. As often happens with families, everyone had their own ideas and opinions. While their son had a clear vision, his parents also wanted to be involved. At times, this required some discussion, but our team was able to offer guidance and help the family find a design that everyone was happy with. The father often mentioned how Sosna had resolved their previous renovation issues, and that positive experience made their choice clear when it was time to renovate the condo. This collaborative design approach ensures that every home renovation truly reflects the family’s needs and tastes.
A Home to Enjoy: Cooking, Living, and Making Memories
Today, the condo tells a very different story. It’s no longer just a dated rental – it’s a warm, functional, and personal space designed around the life of a young man who loves to cook and has an eye for design. We even chose a specific single-bowl sink that makes it easy to clean large pots. And with the well-planned storage, everything has its place. But perhaps the best part is that the space now feels calm, inviting, and completely his own.
This condo renovation wasn’t just about new finishes or updated fixtures. It was about taking a well-loved but tired space and giving it a new lease on life – with careful attention, teamwork, and a focus on the future. It really shows our commitment to creating beautiful and functional homes through excellent interior design and smooth renovation services.
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Let’s Start Your Home Transformation Story!
Thinking about upgrading your space? Whether you’re considering a complete home makeover, a fantastic kitchen renovation, or smart small space design solutions, our friendly team in Vaughan, Ontario is ready to connect! Contact Sosna today for a relaxed consultation, and let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life together!
