Why Walking Up (And Down) Is Actually Pretty Charming
People often look at walk‑up apartments and think “meh, no sleek façade,” but that’s the beginning of the story. Inside those unassuming buildings, a whole different world awaits—one that can surprise even the most skeptical.
Pros of the Stair‑Dilemma
- Natural cardio: Those stubborn stairs are a free‑bie fitness routine. Just imagine paying for a gym membership each day.
- Spatial freedom: Walk‑ups usually mean bigger, cozier spaces compared to cramped condos.
- Neighborhood vibe: Living in a walk‑up lets you mingle with folks who’ve invested in the same “old-school” charm.
Cons That Nix the Enthusiasm
- Trips to the stairs: For anyone who’s older or unfazed by luggage, that can feel like a mini marathon.
- DIY maintenance: No elevator? You’ve got to be your own property upkeep superhero.
- Views, usually limited: Unless you’re lucky, the lower floors feel a tad flat compared to penthouse panoramas.
Meet Xander & Joanne—Walk‑Up Wannabes With a Twist
Check out Loftandorder for more about their quirky zest (though a direct link is off‑limits). Alongside their feline sidekicks, Boris and Buffy, the couple chose a walk‑up because it clicked with their lifestyle, not out of necessity.
During their house hunt, they also peered at a handful of condos. Yet, the allure of a walk‑up—simpler logistics, a slightly “homey” feel, and less common confining rules—proved irresistible.
“We love the idea that each stair climb is a tiny adventure, and that our space reflects our personality,” Xander says. Joanne agrees—especially when the stairwell doesn’t feel like a criminal capture and more like a place where rainy day chats happen naturally.
So if you’re ready to trade glossy elevators for steps that bring you closer to your neighbors and a little more exercise, maybe a walk‑up is one of the best ways to keep life grounded with a sprinkle of personality.
He Just Had to Snap It Up!
With a wide grin, he shared, “When this gem hit the market, we just couldn’t let it go. Private, quiet, and smack‑in‑the‑middle – it was practically a dream.”
Why This Home is a Showstopper
- Stunning pitched roof that gives the place a regal touch – it feels like a crown on a cityscape.
- Airy interiors that let your breath and your mood flow freely; it’s like stepping into a breath of fresh air.
- A plain exterior that hides a punch‑line: every room is a surprise, turning ordinary knocks into a secret delight.
Spicing Up a Walk‑Up Home: Xander & Joanne’s Charming Touches
Ever wondered how a plain walk‑up can turn into a character‑filled dream home? Let’s peek into the magic Xander and Joanne sprinkled on their place.
1. The First Impression: Swapping Sober for Sassy
- Front door makeover: Ditch the dull beige for a vibrant navy panel with a bold “Welcome” sign—because who doesn’t love a splashy greeting?
- New lanterns hanging over the porch cast a cozy glow, turning late‑night strolls into a mini‑gala.
2. Window Wonderland
- They added black frames and sassy curtains that flip up like a magic trick whenever someone wants a view.
- Picture frames featuring DIY memes—yes, the “this is not a trash dump” art piece earned a first‑rate laugh.
3. Inside the Living Realm
- Seating: A splash of pastel sofa cushions invites you to sit and chill—3‑sided comfy seating for family and friends.
- Décor: Bundles of plants in quirky pots; unexpected shaking vines made the house feel alive.
- Art: Hand‑painted chalkboard wall that turns the place into an interactive sketchbook, complete with doodles like “Beep beep!” and “Crap lane!”.
4. The Sweet Spot: Kitchen & Breakfast Nook
- They swapped the ordinary kitchen cabinets for color‑coded ones: green for veggies, blue for gadgets.
- Breakfast nook: A vintage, retro‑cheery table with a set of food items that look like they’ve been imported from another universe.
5. Final Touches & the Bottom Line
With a blend of bold color, personal jokes, and a little humor sewn into every corner, the walk‑up became a vibrant “home in a nutshell” that feels like a fun holiday every day!
A home that is full of character and charm
Renovation Reality Check: The Budget Blip
Picture this: a newlywed couple facing the inevitable blow-up of home improvement bills during a global pandemic. They were ready for the price hike, but still wanted a solid game plan.
How They Tackled the Numbers
- Talked to friends who’ve already pulled out a few walls and came home with their own move‑in checklist.
- Got a “pretty close” estimate—good enough to keep their finances on track.
- Only surprise? The price tag for asbestos removal wasn’t on the initial list.
Why It Matters
Asbestos is the silent threat that can derail even the best-intentioned makeover. That overlooked cost is a reminder that even seasoned renovators need to keep a wiggle room in their budget.
Bottom Line
Planning and a bit of brownie‑point consulting can keep your renovation from turning into a financial horror story—just remember to check for hidden fees like asbestos, or you might find your budget doing a little dance.
<img alt="" data-caption="Drawn up by the couple
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Design on Autopilot: A Home That Reflects Their Vibe
Forget the cookie‑cutter themes. The couple decided to stay flexible when it came to choosing a design for their renovation. Instead of chasing the latest trend, they opened the door to the possibilities that fit their everyday lives.
Why They Stayed Open‑Minded
- Personal Comfort First: The space had to feel like home, not a showroom.
- Ad No “Theme” 🙂: They shrugged off the idea of a single design concept.
- Curated by Passion: Every fixture and color was chosen because it mattered to them.
It’s All About Joy
Their final layout is a happy mash‑up of elements that bring them joy—think cool art pieces, favorite books, and a tiny herb garden that keeps the kitchen lively. The result? A cozy sanctuary that turns on when they walk in, not just a label on a tag.
Bottom Line
For this couple, renovating was less about a theme and more about building a living space that sings the same song as their lifestyle—one that’s full of the things they love.
The Blueprint Behind Xander’s Dream Space
Xander’s latest project looks like a mash‑up of every creative’s dream home, carefully filtered through a snazzy lens of personality and practicality.
How the Inspiration Flowed
In short, it’s all about taking real‑life inspiration (and a sprinkle of envy) and turning it into a modern, airy loft that feels both uplifting and rooted in the creative spirit.
Welcome to the Gallery of Curiosities
Picture a house that looks like a treasure trove rather than a plain living room.
A couple has turned their home into a personal museum—all the pieces they love are on display, but they’re still cosy enough to feel like home.
How the Collection Stays Under Control
- Art – From modern prints to vintage sketches, each piece tells a story.
- Toys – A playful reminder that fun never has to retire.
- Oddities – Anything that’s a conversation starter, from peculiar sculptures to quirky gadgets.
- Curiosities – Items that spark wonder, like hand‑made ornaments or antique relics.
Instead of a sleek, minimalist setup, they chose an anti‑minimalist vibe.
They’re not afraid to mix textures, colours, and shapes—just enough to keep things lively but not overwhelming.
The Result: A Home Brimming with Character
The décor bursts with personality, yet every corner remains inviting.
Thanks to their creative vision, the house isn’t just a room; it’s a living show, full of stories and smiles.
Home’s Playful Charm
Even if you’re the quintessential straight‑laced person around the block, you can’t ignore the whirlwind of playful vibes that buzz through every nook and cranny of your living space.
- Dusty shelves that sound like a secret playlist.
- Morning light dancing across the coffee mug.
- Every corner holding a tiny surprise that sparks a smile.
Living room
Room Transformation
Breaking the Walls for a Bigger Big Chill
The designers went full House‑Maverick by tearing down every wall on the main floor—imagine the Whisper + Keep It Blocked scenario, but with a choir of freshly opened doors. They stitched together the kitchen, lounge, and study into one airy stretch that feels like a never‑ending escape room for anyone who wants to unwind.
What You’ll Notice
- Open‑plan magic: The kitchen, living room, and study are all one big space now—no more cramped corners.
- Feeling of freedom: Walking through feels like you’re at a sprawling party with no walls to dampen the vibe.
- All‑in‑one hangout spot: Whether you’re cooking, watching TV, or studying, you’re still in the same cozy zone.
Why We Love It
It’s the kind of layout that turns even the most serious tasks—like Procrastination or “I’ll just read two chapters”—into a joyous adventure. The openness invites laughter, conversation, and a generous slice of calm.
Let the Sunshine In
Why Pulling the Window Was a Brilliant Idea
- Daily dose of daylight. A huge fixed window crammed into the living‑room wall makes the whole floor shine effortlessly.
- No more ‘trash‑tray’ vibes. With the extra glare, all those tiny trinkets no longer feel like random clutter—they look like carefully curated art.
- Instant mood boost. Natural light lifts the spirit—great for family gatherings or solo coffee mornings.
Quick Takeaway
The simple addition of a big window turns a plain room into a bright, lively showcase where every little decor piece feels special.
Living Room Vibes
They keep the living room bright and airy—that’s no accident. It’s the place that pulls the whole house together.
- Why it matters: Without that sunshine and openness, the living room turns into a sleep‑over bunker.
- What we do there:
- Chill on Netflix to unwind
- Battle it out on consoles—competitive vibes!
- Karaoke nights whenever friends drop in—because who can resist a sudden show‑off?
Joanne sums it up: “It’s where we spend most of our free time—watching TV, gaming, and occasionally singing our hearts out when friends visit.”
Dining and kitchen
Turning Our House Into a Seamless, No‑Wall Wonderland
Remember the days when your living room felt like a separate universe from the kitchen? We listened, and we knocked down the walls, literally. The result? A home that’s so connected, even the snack cabinet may start chatting with the sofa.
Why We Did It
- More Conversation! Smoothing the flow from the TV to the stove keeps everyone talking, no matter where the action is.
- Home‑Chef Heaven “We cooked a lot more at home during the pandemic,” says Joanne. “We needed a kitchen that could handle the extra chaos and still feel cozy.”
- Space to Play Without walls, kitchen prep gets room to breathe, and your living room can double as a dance floor or a quiet reading nook.
Key Moments That Made It Happen
When we brainstormed the redesign, the idea of a “no‑wall zone” sparked the most laughs and the loudest cheers.
Joanne shared, “In the last two years since the pandemic started, we also started to cook a lot more at home and therefore wanted a larger kitchen with ample prep space. It’s like turning our house into a giant, interactive playground.”
How It Feels Today
Every morning starts with a kitchen ready for a quick scramble and a living room where you can bounce back from the hustle of cooking. The seamless layout makes every simple task feel like a spa day for the whole family.
Final Thoughts
Removing walls isn’t just a design trick; it’s a relationship boost. Whether you’re whipping up a sauce or binge‑watching a new series, the conversation, laughter, and love keep flowing, unblocked and unstoppable.
Kitchen Design Spotlight
Imagine a kitchen that dares to showcase every little gem you love.
Open Shelves: Showtime
- Have a collection of vintage mugs, quirky spice jars, or that one-of-a-kind T‑shirt? The open shelves make sure every item gets a front‑row seat.
Closed Cabinets: The Secret Chills
- All the rest of the kitchen clutter—spoon sets, casseroles, and the mysterious box of extra napkins—keeps its cool under a closed door, so nothing feels cluttered.
Color Mixing Magic
Light‑shaded wood panels dance perfectly beside dark green tiles, creating a lively contrast that keeps the space exciting and fresh.
Let the Sunshine In!
Picture this: a long, sunlit window right by your sink, turning every breakfast into a bright, airy delight. It’s like turning your kitchen into a sun-kissed oasis—minus the sand dunes, of course.
Why is it a Game‑Changer?
- More Light — Imagine every cup of coffee prepped under natural brilliance. No more reliance on harsh bulbs.
- Vibrant Vibes — A glossy, sun‑flooded space feels warmer and feels friendlier.
- Instant Mood Booster — Brightness has that sprout‑of‑suns–mood‑lift effect, but for kitchens.
Pro Tip: Pair It With a Splash of Color
Accent the window with a pop of paint or a mirrored backsplash to amplify that airy feel—and trust us, it’ll make your dishes look even more appetizing.
Final Thought
So, if you want a kitchen that feels less like a cubicle and more like a sunny patio, add that long window next to the sink. Your mornings will thank you.
Reviving the Kitchen Corner
With a splash of creativity from the design team, that long‑forgotten, oddly shaped nook beside the kitchen has been turned into a snazzy, feline‑friendly sanctuary. They christened this revamped space the “catio”—a clever blend of “cat” and “patio” that’s making every kitty feel like the star of the show.
How the Transformation Took Shape
- Spotlight on Space: The area, once a neglected corner, was the perfect canvas for a little makeover.
- Design Magic: The team used eye‑catching colors and cozy textures, sprinkling a dash of whimsy.
- Purposeful Placement: Shelves and perches were installed at built‑in angles, giving cats a lofty view of the kitchen bustle.
- Playful Flair: A tiny balcony‑style perch, a playful drop‑down hammock, and a sprinkle of interactive toys brought the kitty vibe to life.
So next time you walk past that corner, you’ll probably see a tail swishing and a contented purr echoing from that newly minted catio—a testament to the creative powers of the design team, and proof that even the most overlooked spaces can turn into memorable, happy spots.
A Feline-Friendly Home Balance
“We knew we wanted them to have room to live their best cat lives but we also didn’t want our home to look like a cat cafe,” Xander said. In other words:
- Give the cats playful space to roam and nap.
- Keep the décor stylish, not stamp‑collective.
- Serve as the perfect “home sweet home” for both humans & cats.
Keeping Cats, Allergies, and Cardboard Boxes in Check
They’ve installed a chic sliding glass door in their built‑in display cabinet so they can, if the need arises, lock their furry friends out of the room and keep the sneezy visitors at bay.
Why the glass door?
- Allergy relief – Keeps pesky allergens at a safe distance.
- Future foster flexibility – When the next kitten arrives, a quick slide and the cats are out.
- Minimal fuss – No need for a full-on Victorian cage.
But let’s be real: “As all wise cat owners know, nothing beats an ol’ cardboard box!” the owner chuckled. They decided the sleek, modern design would be great, but the timeless charm of boxes will always rule the roost.
Bedroom loft
Staircase Surprise
Climbing up to the bedrooms is a small, yet memorable, adventure.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice a pop of green peeking out from the staircase.
- It’s not a color trend—they originally aimed for a classic white finish.
- Due to a tiny mishap, one step ended up bright green.
- That accidental splash ended up turning out to be a nice little twist—an unexpected little charm.
So when dodging design faux‑pas turns into a sweet surprise, you just keep walking upward. Enjoy the view!
Welcome to the Bright Side
The skylight pans the room in a luminous glow, making every corner feel like it’s basking in sunshine.
When you step up the stairs, you’re met by a Stormtrooper—not your typical galactic enforcer, but a jovial guardian ready to chuckle as you reach the second floor.
- Sunlit vibes from the skylight
- Friendly trooper check‑in at the top of the stairs
- Seamless transition to the next level
Joanne’s Minimalist Loft Makeover
Joanne dropped a quick story about her latest bedroom tweak, and let’s just say it’s all about keeping things light and breezy.
What We Did
- We lifted the ceiling board to reveal the naked roof—no extra decorations, just the honest skyline.
- Built a small loft to house our one and only bedroom, giving it a lofty, airy feel.
- Kept everything clean and bare‑bones so you can breathe easier and sleep easy.
“We wanted a quiet, uncluttered space to rest in peace,” Joanne laughed, adding that the simple setup does wonders for her nightly recharge.
Quick Takeaway: Sometimes, the simplest designs bring the most serene vibes.
Sun‑Lit Room: A Bright, Breezy Bedroom
Picture a window in the bedroom that looks straight down into the living room below. It’s not just a view—it’s a natural light flood that keeps the space from feeling stuffy and gives the whole house a warm, open vibe.
Why It Matters
- Bright Days: The room stays lively with plenty of daylight.
- No Stale Air: Constant light flow keeps the room feeling fresh.
- Room Fusion: A smooth visual link between bedroom and living area.
Basically, the window turns your bedroom into a sun‑kissed sanctuary that never feels cramped.
Turning a Bedroom into a Dream Machine
Why Less is More
Picture a room stripped clean: no wardrobe, no TV, just a simple bed and a few essentials. The founders of this design haven wanted to keep the bedroom true to its purpose— sleeping, not streaming. By letting the room breathe, they’re avoiding distractions and saying “yes” to a good night’s rest.
Lights That Do More Than Shine
- Instead of a window, they installed smart lights that kiss the room with a sunrise glow.
- Over time, the lights gently warm up and fade, mimicking the sun’s first rays. You’ll wake up feeling like you actually stepped outside.
- And the best part? All this magic happens without the need for a front‑door view.
In short, the room’s design isn’t just aesthetic—it’s a sleep hack that feels almost supernatural. Dreamers, get ready to rise with the sun… or rather, with the lights!
Turning a Tiny Bedroom Into a Midnight Miracle
Even though the bedroom feels more like a comfy shoebox than a spacious retreat, we pulled off the ultimate hack: a built‑in powder room. No more huffing and puffing down the stairs in the dark for a quick bathroom break!
The Spark Behind the Splash
“We built a powder room from scratch in the bedroom, to ensure we wouldn’t have to climb down the stairs in the dead of night to use the bathroom,” she explained. It’s the classic “when the light goes off, the bathroom feels far away” vibe—too common to ignore.
Step‑by‑Step DIY: The Bedroom Bathroom Edition
- Identify the perfect corner. A cramped nook that can double as both room and restroom.
- Get the plumbing in place. Think of it as a mini‑hydro project—no plumbing master needed.
- Choose compact fixtures. A tiny sink, a space‑saving toilet, all in one sweet combo.
- Seal the area. Waterproof flooring, a quick‑wipe curtain, and a mirror that’s stylish enough not to make you feel like you’re in a minivan.
Why It Matters
Stairs in the middle of the night can feel like a trip to the moon—bland, demanding, and not exactly the best use of your sleep energy. By moving the bathroom to the bedroom, we preserve our nightly peace and keep the floor tiles dry.
So next time someone says, “I need to use the bathroom in the middle of the night,” you can proudly say, “No worries—it’s right here! No evasive stair climb required.”
Bathroom, etc.
Reimagining the Back‑End
From old hallway to modern marvel, the once long corridor that crammed a kitchen, a split shower and a bathroom has been transformed into the couple’s very own “nook for every need”.
- Wardrobe galore – closet space that’s less closet and more dreamland
- Washer & dryer duo – stack‑of‑laundry’s new playground
- Master bath – a spa‑like sanctuary right at home
- Service yard – the secret rear‑garden where vehicles and vibes mingle
This revamped zone isn’t just functional; it’s a whisper of new stories for the evenings that used to be cramped back‑stage.
Feeling Right in the “Nest”
Imagine two lovebirds who, in the grand plans of their joint adventure, decided that every part of their home should be a kid‑friendly, handy‑on‑a‑moment‑basis zone. They wanted the kitchen and living‑area, the office and playroom, all glued together like a well‑orchestrated playlist, so that moving from one task to the next felt as breezy as a Sunday stroll.
Why Proximity Makes Perfect Sense
- Speedy Swaps: A whisk, a lamp, a game—handy when you’re juggling coffee for guests, drafting a budget, or binge‑watching a new series.
- Zero Cross‑Road Drama: No more zig‑zagging between rooms to find that missing stapler or remote.
- Energy‑Easing: Less running around, more time sipping tea, laughing, or tackling their to‑do list.
A Touch of Humor (because life’s better that way)
Picture our duo on a typical “one‑thing‑at‑a‑time” day: “Hey, where did I leave the banana peel?”. They discover it’s actually in the tiny “behind‑the‑bookshelf” drawer, save it, and oh—ma, that’s the same space where the forgotten cleaning brush lives. It turns out that a half‑hour sprint to grab a donut from the kitchen on a Sunday morning could mean they finally throw out the fridge’s third‑generation gym equipment—the stepping stone that nobody knew existed.
Bottom Line
When lovemates decide that the kitchen, living room, and office are going to be “sneezing in proximity,” they’re setting up their home for efficiency, sanity, and a little extra laughter each time they shuffle around. It’s like the building blocks of a world where nothing stops them from doing the things that matter—whether that’s a quick phone call or a spontaneous dance‑party between the couch and the kitchen island.
Bathrooms That Deserve a Spotlight
In many homes, the bathroom feels like a forgotten footnote—just another box in the house’s outline. But this one breaks the mold. As you reach the end of the common hallway, a splash of red stands out: the countertop isn’t just functional, it’s a statement piece.
Why It’s Not Just the Color
- Colorful Accents: The countertop’s ruby hue puts the spotlight on the space, making the room feel more intimate rather than clinical.
- Quirky Fixtures: A playful toothbrush holder shaped like a strawberry or a vintage-style tap that greets you with a friendly tap.
- Functional Art: A small, hand‑painted tile mural depicting a whimsical landscape or a tiny gallery of blank frames for your favorite selfies.
- Light Play: Warm, dimmable LEDs hidden within the cabinet walls that give the bathroom a cozy glow.
- Fragrant Fun: A travel-size candle that mimics the scent of fresh rain, keeping the air crisp and inviting.
Checkout the Details
In designing a bathroom that feels alive, the secret lies in small decorative details. Each element—whether it’s a funky mirror frame or a plant accent—adds character without overwhelming the space.
Takeaway
So next time you walk past a standard bathroom, remember: a dash of red, a sprinkle of personality, and a collection of zany touches can turn a mundane Necessity into a delightful corner of your home. It’s like giving the bathroom a tiny influencer makeover—you’ll love feeling like you’ve just stepped into a chic lounge instead of a plain restroom.
Bringing the vision to reality
Our Dream Home Became Even Better Than We Imagined
When we asked the couple if the final outcome matched what they first envisioned, the answer wasn’t a simple “yes”. Instead, Xander and Joanne were over the moon, saying the finished space turned out better than they’d hoped.
Design Wins Without Breaking the Bank
- Joanne praised the savvy balance: “We were truly blessed to not have to sacrifice much in design to stay within our budget.”
- JQ Ong of the Association steered the entire reno—design and management—making the process smooth.
- Xander highlighted their shared groove: “It turned out he understood us from the start, and we both cherish the same vibes.”
- Coincidentally, JQ was hunting for a walk‑up project, so it was a win‑win for everyone.
Key Takeaways
• Budget meets style: no corners cut, just clever pricing.
• Trusted collaboration: a designer who gets the family’s taste.
• Serendipitous match: the dream project matched the architect’s search, keeping all parties happy.
In short, their new home is not just a reflection of their hopes—it’s a bonus that outshines the original plan. Happy homeowners, and a big shout‑out to JQ for making the magic happen!
Furnishing the Love Nest: A Tale of Thrifty Glam
When Xander and his partner go shopping for furniture, they’re not about to splurge on every shiny thing that catches their eye. “They had to make us go hell‑yeah!,” Xander recalls, because every purchase felt like a new chapter in their shared life.
Weekend Adventures & Digital Bazzar
- Weekend Explorations: The duo spent every corner of their spare days touring their favorite stores. Who knew finding the perfect sofa could eat up all that weekend bliss?
- Phone‑Powered Treasure Hunt: Even when they were home, they stayed glued to their phones—checking out the latest releases, hunting for flash sales, and snagging promos like a boss.
Budget‑Friendly Lifelines
To keep their style on point without draining the bank, the couple did a smart swap:
- Old‑School Keepsakes: They recycled big pieces like the bedframe and display cabinet from their first love‑nest.
- High‑Ceiling Hype: Their lofty ceilings (> standard height) meant that custom built‑ins weren’t just a choice—they became a necessity, cutting costs while adding a touch of bespoke flair.
With a mix of practical moves and a dash of epic shopping spirit, they’ve poured love into every corner—and kept the expenses on a friendly footing. Cheers to a home that feels like yours, without losing your wallet’s sanity!
Inside Their Newly Renovated Home
After we dug into what makes their place tick, both of them chimed in: the poise of ‘coming home’ simply nailed it.
Daytime: Sun‑Lit Energy
- Sunbeams in the Living Room: The space is bathed in natural light, giving it an almost sun‑powered vibe.
- Feel-good Ambiance: Brightness lifts spirits and refreshes the body, like a daily dose of vitamin Sun.
Nighttime: Cozy & Warm
- Soft Glows: As the sun dips, the area turns into a snug haven with gentle, low‑key lighting.
- Comforto‑high: The warmth makes the rooms feel like a small, personalized hug.
Joanne sums it up in a breezy line: “It’s truly us – in house form,” meaning the home is basically their personality, wrapped in walls and windows.
Lessons learned from a successful renovation journey
Renovating in a Pandemic: A Tale of Caution, Chaos, and Unexpected Stay‑overs
Picture this: you and your partner decide to give your home a fresh look, but the world is a bit of a glitchy video game on lockdown. The renovation crew faces more curveballs than a batter in the World Series.
Step 1: The Master Plan
At first, the duo had a solid game plan—measurements, paint colors, a timeline that smelled like fresh drywall.
Step 2: The Plot Twist
- All the stop‑signs of a pandemic.
- Every tool and material in the DIY toolbox turned into a “no‑entry” item.
- Guess what? Everyone on the crew, including the couple, caught COVID.
The team’s health protocol turned into a speed‑bump that slowed the entire operation. “We took precautions, but our own crew still got the virus,” Xander confesses. It’s like dropping a cake on a hot oven—everything goes awry!
Step 3: The Unexpected Hotel Overlook
With the renovation in a stutter, the couple had to cancel their home‑move‑in date. Instead of their own place, they were temporarily staying in a hotel. Picture your very own ROOM WITH A VILLA VIEW—just not the one you imagined.
Doing the Work While Living In
- They moved into the space with unfinished paint jobs.
- That meant stepping out to the hallway for proper tools (because a broom never looked so grimy).
- They kept their stay in the house, but the lead times were longer than a Netflix binge.
Some things stay out of our control—tell me if you have seen the phrase “roll with the punches” more than once since the pandemic. Xander summed it up well: “Some things are beyond anyone’s control, so we had to roll with the punches.” He didn’t elaborate further, like any good comedian with a punchline.
Conclusion: A Story of Flexibility and Irony
In the end, the renovation turned into oddball experience. With Pandemic, Prediction & Plan, they ended up with a few extra guests—a hotel, a live-in timeline, and a healthy dose of humor to keep them from going crazy.
Renovating a Walk‑Up Home: A Unique Challenge
Our couple—already seasoned renovators who’ve completed a full home makeover—took on a walk‑up apartment in a different ballpark. With soaring ceilings and a long, narrow layout, they had to tackle sight lines, airflow, and dimensions in a way that’d make a master architect proud.
Dream Elements That Made the Cut … And One That Fell Short
- Heroic Heights – The tall rafters gave a dramatic sense of space, but also demanded clever lighting tricks.
- Linear Flow – Long corridors required an honest appraisal of how people would move through the space, before adding that last-inch flourishes.
- Missing the “His & Hers” Vanity – The only wish list treat that didn’t make it onto the final blueprints was a synchronized powder‑room vanity. It was simply a space issue. “Maybe next time!” joked her husband.
Advice for Future Renovators
Through the chaos of drywall and paint, the couple found that human kindness was the secret sauce.
- Show Compassion – A friendly approach with designers, contractors, and tradespeople tends to pay off. A supportive atmosphere makes rough days smoother.
- Team Spirit – Their experience taught them that collaboration, not competition, drives success. When everyone feels respected, creativity thrives.
- Keep It Light – Humor can defuse tension; a joke about a crooked cabinet can keep morale high.
In short: treat everyone with respect, lend a listening ear, and relish the process—the results will follow.
Curious About Other Projects?
We’ve seen a 1,560‑sq‑ft executive maisonette turned into a chic retreat as well, a testament to how thoughtful design transforms spaces. Though we won’t dive into that now, it’s worth keeping an eye on for the next inspiration.
