A 37sqm studio renovation with a pop of color and a tight budget

This 37sqm studio proves that a small space can have a distinct decorative identity. The young couple who own the place are renovating it without breaking the bank and without altering the original floor plan. The professionals at AURA Studio, whom they hired, are renovating this small space using a smart approach. They’re keeping what works and reinventing every corner through color using the color-blocking technique. On the walls, the wallpaper already installed by the previous owners remains in place, simply repainted. The furniture isn’t custom-made because it would be too expensive for their budget. Instead, they’re using off-the-shelf pieces found in stores and online that fit their needs.

Each area gains its own identity through color. This approach replaces partitions with simple blocks of paint. The apartment’s atmosphere is thus completely transformed. No openings are altered, no walls are knocked down, and yet the apartment takes on a completely different personality. This approach reminds us that thoughtful design matters just as much as a substantial budget.

The entrance

Right at the entrance, a large storage unit helps organize everyday items. A curved mirror visually enlarges this narrow passageway. Its rounded shape softens the straight lines of the entryway. A round ottoman adds a touch of comfort near the door. Each element thus finds its place without cluttering the passageway. This entryway is a true room in its own right, despite its modest size.

The kitchen, compact but well-designed

The kitchen retained the gas stove that was already in the apartment, which is still in perfect condition. This choice avoids a costly replacement and reduces the renovation budget accordingly. The designers chose ready-to-install cabinetry to further limit costs and the time spent waiting for custom-made pieces. A system of vertical slats conceals the refrigerator and microwave.

This clever solution hides the appliances without altering the layout of the existing walls. The vertical slats also add an interesting visual rhythm to the room. They give the kitchen a warm texture, creating a sense of visual order without compromising everyday functionality. Each appliance retains its place while remaining discreet within the decor. A small table and two chairs provide a place to eat meals.

The living room, a multi-purpose space

This single room combines the bedroom, living area, walk-in closet, and workspace. A green sofa with a matching ottoman serves as the focal point of the living area. Its deep hue complements the burgundy-painted walls perfectly. A wood-effect TV stand completes the look. In the bedroom area, visually separated by color and a sheer curtain, a lift-up storage bed provides storage space under the mattress. This system is a practical alternative to an additional closet in a small, multifunctional room.

A custom-painted artwork adorns the wall above the sofa. This unique creation instantly personalizes this otherwise standardly furnished space. Tall storage units have been installed to avoid cluttering the floor space. The desk is tucked near the window, taking full advantage of the natural light.

The bathroom and toilet, all in green

Green dominates these two wet areas, from floor to walls. This shade creates a welcoming atmosphere in a very small space. Adhesive wall coverings now cover the existing tiles to modernize the bathroom. This solution avoids the time-consuming and costly process of removing the old tiles. It also allows the decor to be transformed in just a few days.

This minor renovation transforms the ambiance without altering the existing plumbing. The result rivals a full renovation, at a fraction of the usual cost. This bathroom proves that color alone is sometimes enough to transform an older space without major construction work. The toilet features the same shade, creating a pleasing visual continuity between the two rooms.

Our take on the decor

We’re particularly drawn to this choice of unusual, deep colors in such a small space. Burgundy and olive green could have overwhelmed the space, but instead they energize it. Color blocking clearly defines each functional area. We also appreciate the decision to leave the existing wallpaper under the paint. This choice minimizes waste and significantly reduces construction time. The furniture may seem ordinary at first glance. However, the addition of a custom-painted artwork brings real personality to the living area.

The lift-up storage bed cleverly addresses the studio’s space constraints. The choice of vertical slats in the kitchen is another great touch. This simple trick cleverly hides certain items without costing a fortune.

This renovation demonstrates that a small apartment can gain personality on a budget. The combination of burgundy and green creates a unique and cohesive atmosphere. This type of renovation can inspire anyone looking to improve their apartment quickly and affordably. It shows that a well-chosen color palette can save weeks or even months of renovation work.

A renovation lesson for small spaces

All over the world, small urban spaces face the same challenges as this 37sqm studio. In Paris or Milan, studio apartments are a dime a dozen. As a result, they combine multiple functions into a single room. Color blocking works particularly well in these compact living spaces. This technique defines different zones without resorting to partitions that would limit the sense of space. Residents often hesitate to use bold colors, fearing they’ll grow tired of them or that they’ll make the space feel smaller. This example, however, proves the opposite. This renovation from abroad thus offers practical ideas for reimagining a studio apartment in France or any major city around the world.