Apartment renovation

Planning, costs and process for the renovation of a condominium

For many owners, renovating a condominium is one of the most important investments they make in their property. Often, not only do tastes change over the years, but so do the requirements for the living space. Rooms suddenly seem too small, kitchens no longer meet current standards, or the bathroom looks outdated. Especially in cities like Basel, where property values are high, a well-planned renovation can significantly increase living comfort and simultaneously secure the long-term value of the apartment. However, an apartment renovation also presents challenges. Planning, cost control, and coordination of the various trades require experience and a clear structure. This is precisely where professional interior design plays a crucial role.

Why professional interior design is crucial

Renovating a condominium is rarely just about new surfaces or a more modern kitchen. Far more often, the fundamental question is how to better utilize and organize the rooms.

An interior designer therefore considers a home holistically. This includes taking into account aspects such as:

• Optimization of the floor plan

• better use of the available space

• Integration of storage space

• Kitchen and bathroom planning

• Material and lighting concept

• Coordination of implementation

Especially in older apartments, floor plans are often no longer suited to today's living needs. An interior designer analyzes the existing structure and develops solutions that are both functionally and aesthetically convincing.

Typical challenges during apartment renovation

Floor plan and room structure

Many apartments have layouts that are impractical for everyday use. Small kitchens, poorly designed hallways, or unused niches are typical examples. Targeted floor plan optimization can often make significantly better use of space.

Technical installations

During renovations, existing installations must be taken into account, for example:

• water pipes

• Ventilation systems

• Electrical installations

Good planning prevents the need for costly adjustments later.

Coordination of the trades

A home renovation usually requires several specialist companies, such as:

• joiner

• electrician

• plumbers

• kitchen builder

• floor layer

Without clear planning, scheduling problems or unnecessary additional costs often arise.

Planning an apartment renovation – step by step

A structured process is crucial for the success of a renovation project.

1. Analysis of the existing apartment

The process begins with a thorough analysis of the existing apartment. This includes examining the floor plan, installations, and structural features.

2. Development of a spatial concept

Based on this analysis, a concept for the future use of the spaces will be developed.

Typical topics include:

• open-plan kitchen/living room

• more storage space

• optimized room layout

• improved lighting

3. Material and interior design planning

The next step involves defining materials, surfaces, and details. These include, for example:

• Floor coverings

• Kitchen worktops

• Wall surfaces

• Bathroom equipment

4. Planning the implementation

The planning is then translated into detailed execution plans so that tradespeople can implement the work precisely.

Costs of an apartment renovation

The cost of an apartment renovation depends heavily on the scope of the work. Typical influencing factors include:

• Size of the apartment

• Scope of the structural changes

• Quality of materials

• Adjustments to installations

While smaller renovations often only affect individual rooms, a comprehensive interior redesign can be significantly more complex.

Professional planning helps to estimate costs early and to structure the budget realistically.

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Our approach as interior designers in Basel

As federally certified interior designers and members of the Association of Swiss Interior Designers, we develop renovation projects in a structured and holistic manner.

We work with our interior concept system , which includes the following steps:

• Analysis of the existing apartment

• Development of a spatial concept

• Interior design and materials planning

• Coordination of implementation

Our goal is to create spaces that are both functionally and aesthetically convincing.

Added value for owners

A professionally planned renovation offers several advantages:

• better use of space

• clear decision-making criteria

• structured project process

• long-term increase in the property's value

Especially in Basel, where living space is scarce and valuable, careful planning is particularly worthwhile.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does it cost to renovate a condominium?

The costs depend heavily on the scope of the work. Early planning helps to realistically estimate the budget.

Is it possible to change the floor plan of an apartment?

Yes, in many cases an adjustment is possible. However, load-bearing walls and installations must be taken into account.

How long does an apartment renovation take?

Depending on the scope, a renovation can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

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Conclusion

Renovating a condominium offers the opportunity to rethink living space and tailor it perfectly to one's own needs. Professional planning ensures that design, function, and budget are in balance.

INBYKO is an interior design firm in Basel focusing on high-quality renovations and interior design projects in private residential construction.