City Chic: Corporate Apartment Gets a Contemporary Makeover in Perth

In downtown Perth, inner city living is a popular choice for professionals, but the current state of this apartment was more tired than trendy. Owners Stuart and Sue knew a better return on their investment could be attained if their corporate apartment had a modern makeover so they got in touch with local Renovation Consultants, Jason and Michelle Zielinski.

The renovation duo had previously transformed another property of Stuart and Sue’s so the homeowners knew they were entrusting the upgrade of their city asset to the professionals.

A Complete Transformation

At 107m² , this two-bedroom, two-bathroom inner city apartment was relatively spacious, but storage was at a minimum, the decor was aged, and inefficiencies with the original design meant the area wasn’t as well utilised as it could be.

Stuart and Sue wanted to renovate the kitchen and both bathrooms to maximise storage and create a more spacious and modern feel. They were also keen for Michelle and Jason to reconfigure the laundry space with new cabinetry that would add both storage and functionality. The entrance hall was on the list as was the flooring, painting, and upgrades to all light switches.

In short, Jason and Michelle were tasked with a total transformation of this inner city abode.

Design and Build, Budget and Deliver

Stuart and Sue were well versed on what a home renovation entailed. They’d undertaken one of their own and had a frustrating experience, having to manage and schedule a number of trades themselves. They had also been left disappointed with the quality of finishes.

Seeking Michelle and Jason’s help with a subsequent renovation, Stuart and Sue had confidence in their local Renovation Consultants and the Refresh process to modernise their city apartment and make it more appealing to the corporate market.

Stuart and Sue didn’t have a budget in mind, but after working through the Refresh five-step process with Jason and Michelle, project costs were agreed upon and work could begin.

Demolition first, upgrade to follow

Upgrading an inner city apartment meant it was important for neighbours to be informed of any potential disruption. Michelle and Jason ensured open and transparent communication with Stuart and Sue’s neighbours was had, but because the renovation was internal and there were no structural challenges required, there was very little impact on nearby residents.

Calling upon their trusted network of local trades professionals, Michelle and Jason’s team began with the demolition of all fixtures, fittings, and flooring in the apartment. Brickwork in the bathroom was also removed to make it feel more open.

All work was undertaken between tenancies while the property was vacant, but Stuart and Sue weren’t around either. They were enjoying a six-week holiday in Europe keeping up to date on progress of the project via Refresh Renovations’ client portal, BuilderTrend.

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A Modern Makeover Begins

Plastering, gyprocking, waterproofing, tiling, and plumbing were all needed to breathe new life into Stuart and Sue’s apartment. Timber-look vinyl flooring was laid in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry, new bathroom vanities and entrance hall cabinetry was custom built for the spaces, all electrical switches were upgraded with LED downlights throughout, and painting of the new skirting boards ensured a professional finishing touch.

While the aesthetic upgrades certainly achieved the contemporary look Stuart and Sue were seeking, it was Michelle and Jason’s reconfiguration of spaces that has really helped to modernise the apartment and ensure a more functional inner city dwelling. From the storage solutions in the laundry to the floating vanities and backlit mirrors in the bathroom, and the updated appliances in the kitchen, this apartment now has significant appeal and two very happy owners.

“Working with Michelle and Jason Zielinski on the complete renovation of our two bedroom, two bathroom, Perth apartment has been a flawless process.

From our very first meeting with them, it was very clear that they were professional, ethical, held themselves to account but, most important of all, were as invested in the renovation project as we were. We immediately felt that we were in a partnership with them, that they would capture our vision for the apartment and, with their experience, enhance that vision.

At that first meeting, we arrived with a list of “Absolutes” and a “Wish List”. Michelle and Jason delivered on them all, within the projected timeline, and within the projected budget. We could not be more pleased with their commitment to - and management of - the project, the workmanship of their team members, and the final outcome.

Refresh Renovations provided a complete service from project commencement to completion, with professional documentation and communication provided at each step of the renovation journey. Additionally, an access internet link was provided, whereby Jason posted regular updates and photos documenting the renovation progress. This was so welcome during our six-week overseas absence, and reflects the trust we had in our partnership.

We cannot recommend Refresh Renovations highly enough, and are so thankful that we were able to transform our apartment through the investment and expertise of Michelle and Jason.”

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