Tips for redeveloping a one-room apartment: from idea to implementation

The legal aspects of redeveloping an apartment

The field of law provides for various processes regarding major changes to the configuration of living spaces. They involve renovation and construction stages that result in changes to the home. When it comes to apartment redevelopment, the law requires obtaining a permit to make changes to the original layout of the space. Here you need to understand clearly what the term "redevelopment" means and not confuse it with words close to it in meaning. This process involves:

• moving doorways, partitions and window blocks;
• adding balconies on the ground floors;
• changes to the routing of utilities.

During redevelopment, the internal space changes, but the external appearance stays the same. The procedure requires careful planning and registration actions, obtaining the relevant documents — permits in particular — and legalizing the new layout of the space.

The main laws and regulations

Thanks to the changes made to Article 100 of the Housing Code of Ukraine, property owners were exempted from getting work approved when redeveloping an apartment in cases where the actions don't involve any interference with shared engineering networks and load-bearing structures.

Article 152 of the Housing Code of Ukraine states that work to change the look of an apartment that isn't connected with interference in shared engineering networks, and that doesn't compromise the integrity of load-bearing structures, doesn't require a redevelopment permit.

Permit documents and the stages of obtaining them

There are, however, certain actions that require the procedure of legalizing an apartment redevelopment. Before starting such work, you should obtain a permit from the local authorities. This could be:

• the urban planning department;
• the housing and utilities services;
• other agencies.

To obtain a permit, you need to submit a new project and a completed declaration applying for the permit.

The process of legalizing an apartment redevelopment involves:

• developing the project;
• putting the property into service;
• drawing up a new technical passport for the space.

The apartment owner should turn to a BTI engineer, who will begin developing the technical documentation.

Types of redevelopment: choosing the best option

A one-room apartment can be redeveloped in various ways. It all depends on how the person wants their space to look in the future and what needs it should cover. Among the most common redevelopment options, the following can be identified:

• into a two-room apartment;
• into a studio;
• into a two-level apartment;
• into a home with a children's room and a bedroom.

Let's look at each option in more detail, to identify the features, advantages and disadvantages of the different types and choose the best one.

Redevelopment into a two-room apartment

This request is popular among couples and families with children. If you need to create an extra space, you can divide one room into two. There are various ways to bring this idea to life:

• installing a partition;
• building plasterboard walls.

The main thing is to take into account the placement of the windows and doors, so as not to block anything off. The range of modern materials and technological solutions makes it possible to create both permanent and movable partitions. On top of that, you can use a play of colors, textures and lighting.

Among the main advantages of redeveloping a one-room apartment into a two-room one are:

• an increase in living space;
• improved comfort;
• more privacy.

That said, even minor actions require financial outlay and compliance with rules and norms.

Redevelopment into a studio

Many people think that making a studio apartment is fairly simple. All you need to do is knock down the internal partitions, except for the bathroom walls. But a studio should be not only spacious but also functional. In this case, the most important thing is to think through a successful and fitting design.

The zoning of the space should be planned so that each part serves a particular purpose. Most designers play this off nicely with furniture and additional decor that has a dual function. A studio is a good option for those who plan to live alone. It gives a sense of space and freedom in the home.

A two-level apartment

This is another interesting and modern way to turn one room into two. The feature of this kind of redevelopment is that you don't build a full-fledged second floor — you only set off a certain part of the space. Usually a spot for a small bedroom-bed is chosen for this. The lower part can be used as a small walk-in closet.

Redevelopment with a children's room and a bedroom

This option is considered by young families with a child who want to set aside a certain space, since one-room apartments usually have a limited number of square meters. In this case, you should think through every detail very meticulously and work out the nuances and lighting correctly. It's better to turn to specialists for help, who will help bring your dreams to life while making it as practical as possible.

Practical tips for redevelopment

Redeveloping a one-room apartment can be handled in the best possible way today. This is possible thanks to the range of materials, design solutions and so on. Among the practical tips, the following can be identified:

• using sliding doors;
• MDF panels and other materials;
• plasterboard partitions and screens;
• zoning with furniture and flooring.

Let's look at the tips above in more detail. This will help you understand just how useful and practical they can be.

Using sliding doors

This type of door appeared in 1960. They'll be ideal for small spaces that need an enclosed area while you also want to make use of every centimeter of free space.

Standard doors need free space next to them when opening, which isn't always available in redeveloped one-room apartments. By choosing sliding models, you'll be able to place furniture alongside and open the door without any discomfort.

MDF panels and other materials

Wall MDF panels are a popular, modern way to refresh the interior of any space. Decorative panels are used in various colors. They're easy to install and can be used for an entire wall or for separate sections.

There are other similar materials that can be used effectively to decorate and finish a one-room apartment during its redevelopment. To find the best solution, you should consult the relevant specialists.

Plasterboard partitions and screens

If you're looking for an answer to the question of how to divide a room into two zones, then using plasterboard partitions will be a fairly good solution. Such material will serve as a full-fledged wall while requiring minimal space. Plasterboard can be used both as a stationary partition and as a semi-mobile one that can be moved when needed.

Zoning with furniture and flooring

If you want to make changes to the layout of a one-room apartment but don't want anything drastic, then in that case you can use different flooring and well-chosen furniture. That way, you'll be able to set off different parts within a single room.

Not sure how to divide a room into two zones? In that case, you should turn to professional designers. They'll offer several solution options, among which you're sure to find the one you need.

Design and layout

A one-room apartment can be laid out in various ways, depending on individual needs. For example, you can:

• plan a living room with a kitchen;
• fit out a study in the bedroom.

Everyone has their own requirements, and different projects are chosen accordingly.

Planning a living room with a kitchen

This option is fairly common. Combining such rooms is a fairly simple solution, since they're interdependent and even similar in some ways. Usually the appropriate furniture is placed in the kitchen — a table, chairs, sometimes even a small sofa. That way, the room can be used both for eating and for receiving guests.

A study in the bedroom

These two zones are quite often combined, since it's perfectly logical. This is usually solved simply: a small corner is set aside in the bedroom for a desk, a chair and a small bedside table or cabinet. That way, you have a full-fledged bedroom and a place where you can handle your work tasks.

Important points before starting redevelopment

You need to begin the process of redeveloping a one-room apartment without rushing. You should prepare well for this process, namely:

• assess the technical condition of the apartment;
• develop a detailed plan.

These stages will help you prepare properly and do everything as well as possible.

Assessing the technical condition of the apartment

First, you need to inspect the space thoroughly. It's best to do redevelopment in new builds. For example, you can buy a one-room apartment in the "Mistechko Pidzamche. Brama" residential complex and later redevelop it into a two-room one. The absence of a previous renovation makes it possible to do everything in the best possible way. The floor areas of modern one-room apartments are larger, which means there are more options.

Developing a detailed plan

The plan for the future redevelopment renovation is an important point that should be developed in detail and meticulously, with every little thing thought through. The final result depends on how it's drawn up. So it's better to turn to the relevant specialists and tell them about your wishes. They'll skillfully combine your requests with effective, modern solutions.

The cost of redevelopment: what to expect

The matter of finances for carrying out the relevant work isn't clearly defined, since it all depends on various factors:

• the volume of work;
• the materials;
• other points.

The cost of each such project is calculated individually. For some, a budget option will be enough, and they can do half the work themselves. Others plan a serious volume of work and don't want to skimp on materials.

An overview of the cost of materials and work

The bulk of all the expenses when redeveloping a one-room apartment falls precisely on the materials and the relevant specialists. If you don't have experience in construction and renovation, it's better not to take this on yourself — leave the work to professionals.

As for materials, the range available today offers any number of different options for solving various issues. You can choose more economical ones, mid-range ones or more expensive ones. It all depends on the amount you're prepared to spend on creating the home of your dreams.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

A lack of experience in this matter and a failure to understand certain aspects lead to people potentially making certain mistakes. Among the most common:

• making a room too complicated in shape;
• not thinking about the zoning of a one-room apartment;
• treating building materials carelessly;
• forgetting about the importance of the electrics.

That's exactly why you can make use of the help of architects and designers, who are versed in all the details and understand their importance. After all, redeveloping a one-room apartment is easy at first glance, but it's precisely the limited space and the need to use it as functionally as possible that can cause a number of problems for owners.