Flat renovation: top tips for renovating a flat and turning it into a dream home

Flat renovation is an exciting journey towards the realisation of one’s living dreams. After more than fifty years of experience in luxury interior design, we can safely say that every renovation project tells a unique story, made up of wishes, expectations and personalised visions of the ideal space.

When a client turns to Il Piccolo, they often bring with them a wealth of ideas for transforming their home. What do we mean? Renovation is not simply a structural intervention: it is an opportunity to reinvent one’s way of living in the home.

Over the years, we have guided hundreds of families along this path of transformation, providing all the best advice for renovating a flat. As a result, we have succeeded in creating places that not only reflect our customers’ personalities, but actually improve the quality of their daily lives.

The importance of a clear overview

The key to a successful flat renovation lies in the ability to see beyond the existing walls. In our approach, every project starts with a careful analysis of the space’s potential. Often, what may at first appear to be a limitation – such as a load-bearing wall or a particular window arrangement – can turn into a creative opportunity for innovative design solutions.

In particular, the renovation process requires meticulous planning. Our experience has taught us that devoting the right amount of time to the planning phase prevents problems. And it helps optimise results and costs. During this phase, we explore every possible solution together with the client, carefully assessing the impact of each design choice on the functionality and aesthetics of the home.

This is certainly not the end of the story. One of the most fascinating aspects of flat renovation is the possibility of completely redefining the space. Through targeted interventions, such as the demolition of some non-load-bearing walls or the creation of new openings, we can, for instance, transform dark and cramped locations into bright and cosy spaces. Then, our expertise in customised furniture design allows us to exploit every available inch, creating intelligent solutions that integrate harmoniously with existing architecture and furniture.

Materials and finishes: the choices that make the difference

The selection of materials is the key moment in the flat renovation process. Current trends see a growing interest in sustainable materials and natural finishes, but the final choice must always take into account the specific needs of the customer and the characteristics of the flat. In our showroom, for example, customers can experience a variety of solutions, from the finest woods to the latest innovative materials.

From here on, we will go into the specifics of the subject, trying to give you what, from our decades of experience in the field, are the best tips for renovating a flat.

Lighting: designing with light

A primary aspect, which is often underestimated in the advice for renovating a flat, is the role of lighting.

A well thought-out lighting design can transform the perception of living spaces from top to bottom. What then? By wisely combining natural and artificial light, different atmospheres can be created for every time of day and for every activity.

Installations: the technological heart of the home

Renovating the flat offers the perfect opportunity to modernise the systems as well, making them more efficient and sustainable.

Integrating home automation systems, improving energy efficiency and optimising the air conditioning system are aspects that should definitely be considered in the project, because they look to the future and to living comfort.

Site management: the importance of coordination

One of the tips for renovating a flat is to pay attention to the construction phase, because it requires precise coordination between the various professionals.

In this sense, it is essential to supervise each phase of the work, ensuring that delivery times and quality standards are met. It is the constant communication with the client and the workers involved that is crucial to manage any unforeseen events and to ensure that the end result corresponds 100 per cent with the client’s expectations.

Those carrying out the renovation should have developed established partnerships with craftsmen and suppliers of the highest calibre, in order to achieve the highest quality in every aspect of the work. This network of professionals represents a fundamental added value for the success of any project.

Trends and innovation (other flat renovation tips)

The world of flat renovation is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay ahead of the curve. In recent years, we have seen an increasing demand for multifunctional spaces, a trend accelerated by changing working habits. Indeed, our most recent projects increasingly include home office areas integrated into the living room, i.e. solutions that allow a guest room to be transformed into a work space during the day. Alternatively, there are also relaxation areas that can also function as smart working zones.

Another key aspect of modern renovations is the focus on sustainability. It is not just a matter of choosing environmentally friendly materials, but of rethinking the way the flat interacts with the environment. From rainwater recovery systems to photovoltaic systems integrated into the architecture, the possibilities are endless. However, it is necessary to choose the most suitable solutions for each context, balancing energy efficiency and aesthetics.

Finally, let’s not forget that customisation is the real strength of any flat renovation. What distinguishes a good interior designer is concrete experience in ad hoc renovations, i.e. the ability to offer truly customised solutions. What does this mean? Well, it means that the professional must not just follow the trends of the moment, but must create environments that reflect the uniqueness of the person living in them. Every detail, from the handle of a piece of furniture to the texture of a wall covering, must be chosen to contribute to a coherent narrative of the space. Only then can the interior design be said to be truly centred.

But our tips for renovating a flat certainly do not end here. We are about to conclude this article, but we still have a few more tips to give you…

Last tips for flat renovation

Renovating a flat is certainly an important investment, not only in financial terms but also emotionally. However, if you rely on an experienced and reliable professional, you will be able to turn this into an absolutely positive and rewarding experience. And you will be able to realise all your dreams.

If you are thinking of renovating your home, we therefore invite you to consider very carefully the tips we have given you in the paragraphs above. It is only in this way that you will be able to achieve unique spaces that adequately reflect your and your family’s lifestyle.

The difference between a ‘normal’ flat renovation and a successful project lies in the details, the planning and the choice of the right partners. You need this first: to have a team of professionals by your side who know how to turn your living desires into reality.

Il Piccolo, second generation family-run carpentry shop, opens its showroom in Lugano. With over 50 years of experience, Il Piccolo brings with it a wealth of technical and design knowledge of the highest level, thanks to the many interiors designed and furnished all over the world. In addition, Il Piccolo represents the most prestigious brands of furniture worldwide. Il Piccolo designs, manufactures and sells the best of interior design made in Italy, following the customer from design to implementation, delivery and installation of the work, integrating the process with a precise and professional service. CONTACT US