Tag Huangpu district

As a non-professional in home decoration, I believe that renovation isn’t about following trends but creating a livable space that stands the test of time. It should be durable and not easily become outdated, so you won’t get tired of it after just a few years.

I purchased a 90-square-meter apartment in Huangpu District as a marital home six years ago. Over time, the interior became worn-out, so I decided to demolish and completely renovate it.

Due to lack of time for material selection and supervision, plus concerns about DIY failures, I opted to hire a professional renovation company to save hassle.

However, I was wary of unreliable firms. After researching 11 companies online and offline for over two months, I narrowed it down to 4 for in-person visits. Some companies were evasive when discussing quotes and whether they had in-house workers.

Ultimately, only Xuan Yi provided transparent details like worker directories and individual fee records. Their contract clearly listed material brands, models, and prices, and they shared past renovation cases, which felt trustworthy.

In the old living room, a partition cabinet made the space feel divided and blocked light from the balcony, creating a dim and oppressive atmosphere.

Xuan Yi’s designer removed the partition and extended tile flooring to the balcony, allowing natural light to flood in, making the area bright and spacious. Accent lights added a cozy, hill-like effect on the walls, enhancing the minimalist aesthetic.

A earth-toned sofa paired with a lounge chair lets me relax while enjoying the view and sunlight.

To save space, the other side of the balcony features built-in cabinets in a recessed area for a washer-dryer set, keeping the surface flush and providing storage for clutter.

The original kitchen was narrow and cramped, with poor ventilation causing smoke issues. By enclosing the balcony and merging it with the kitchen, the space expanded significantly, making cooking convenient for two people.

The refrigerator fits perfectly into a tall cabinet, saving floor space, and wall cabinets extend to the ceiling to prevent dust accumulation, reducing cleaning needs.

The main bedroom was small with insufficient storage, while the bathroom had extra space. By reducing the bathroom area, an L-shaped walk-in closet was added, making the bedroom tidier and the bathroom still functional.

Despite the limited area, Xuan Yi’s design transformed the old, cramped space into a warm and efficient home. Every square meter was optimized, making the 90m² apartment feel like 120m².