Ask an Interior Designer: "What Are the Best Quick and Easy Ways To Improve My Apartment?"

Interior designer Dani Dean shares her top tips for revamping your apartment when you don't have the time or money for a full renovation.

Welcome to 'Ask a Designer'; a series where an interior designer will answer your most pressing interior design questions, space problems, and home challenges. For this instalment, Dani Dean of The Make Haus will be answering a question from a member of the Bed Threads Community about easy home improvement ideas.

Meet the Designer

Dani Dean specialises in everything from interior styling and set design to ideating and executing weddings and brand events through her multidisciplinary creative studio, The Make Haus.

A confident and experienced interior designer, Dani has been the guiding force behind the transformations of numerous commercial, retail, and residential spaces – including her own! – and has a particular flair for creating spaces that are unique yet chic. We were lucky enough to take a tour of Dani's colourful Northern Beaches home, which serves plenty of inspo for designing a home that utilises colour in a sophisticated manner. She is also a founder of The Ware; a collection of private studios for small businesses to conduct photoshoots, workshops, intimate gatherings, and creative play.

The Question

Hi Dani,

My apartment really needs a revamp but I'm unsure where to start. I live a busy life and work full-time so am looking for small things I can do that will have the most impact as I don't have time for a full reno. Please help!

The Answer

It’s no secret that big renovations can cause big inconveniences. But if you’re time or space poor honing your vision into a few key areas can give effective results – without the huge outlay!

The first step is deciding where to start. I would suggest prioritising the spaces you spend the most time in and taking it in stages. Decide on the areas that will have the biggest impact and how best to allocate your budget. If you have limited time and headspace, outsource major ticket items first, like shutters, lighting upgrades and any paint or trade work, then chip away at layering your soft furnishings, furniture, and styling items.

Below, are some of the best quick and easy apartment updates that will have maximum impact.

A fresh coat of paint

A fresh coat of paint can go a long way in making your space feel revived. Dated wall colours and finishes are something that can be handled by the professionals while you’re at work and be finished within the week.

One trick of the trade for a simple kitchen update is to have the cabinet doors re-finished, whereby the cupboard doors are removed, sent away for spraying and put back into place. This could all be organised by a local tradie or handyman.

Focus on the layout

Sometimes introducing new or better-functioning furniture can completely change a space. Consider your existing furniture and how you have it laid out, think about where you may be lacking comfort or practicality. Poorly designed spaces can affect your daily routine, so be aware of the “problem areas” in your most used spaces and make updating them your first priority.

Once you have addressed the functionality of your home you can have fun refreshing the personality of the space with feature furniture, lighting, and soft elements.

Switch out your lighting

A more technical update, but one that is well worth the investment and won’t cause any major inconvenience, is changing outdated light fixtures for more bespoke choices that reflect your style. Introduce some drama with pendants or sconce lights and get rid of any fluorescents or harsh down lighting. Floor and table lamps will soften your evening experience, whilst adding dimension and atmosphere to your living spaces. LED strip lighting is also an affordable DIY option that will instantly enhance your utilitarian spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.

Update materials

Adding VJ panelling to walls or micro cement to floors are major upgrades but they don’t require demolition before installation – this makes them an appealing option for apartment updates. A tradesperson can apply these materials to your space over existing finishes to add character and depth.

Replace hardware

Another reno hack is to update your cabinetry and door hardware. Removing dated door knobs and replacing them with elegant modern designs will give your doors a refresh. Changing out generic or aged cabinetry pulls can be a bit more complicated, but is worth the trouble. Match up the size of any existing handles so you can use the existing screw holes. New cabinetry handles in bespoke finishes and contemporary designs can change the feel of your kitchen or bathroom dramatically. Think of hardware as the jewellery of your home: a minor detail, but one that can add big personality.

Refresh your window treatments

Window finishes are an often neglected styling point, but they actually have a huge impact on how a space feels. Think about the use of the room and overall style of your home to choose between curtains, blinds and shutters. Sheer curtains can create a luxurious feel to bedroom and living spaces, while providing privacy.

Curtain and shutter installation is a one-day job that can entirely redefine your space and how you feel within it.

Update soft furnishings

Updating your rugs and linens can inject fresh colours, patterns and textures with ease. Tired-looking cushions and duvets do not create a welcoming vibe. Opt for quality materials for your bedding and bath towels for tactile luxury you can use for years.