What does it take to turn a brand-new condo unit into a true home?

For this Dreamroom transformation, our client reached out to us through email after her three-bedroom condo has been freshly turned-over. The unit was brand new yet bare, and it needed more than furniture and appliances. It needed a design that would reflect her lifestyle before moving in.

We’ll be revealing the full transformation in stages, and it begins here with the kitchen, the heart of the home. This is where we show how thoughtful design can transform a standard condo kitchen into something warm, functional, and elevated.

A before photo of the kitchen with our design notes.

Refining What Works

Instead of replacing everything that came in with the unit, we chose refinement. The kitchen already had good layout and cabinetry, lacked the personality and functionality that would make it truly feel like home. Since the design and finishes aligned with our client’s style, we adapted them thoughtfully to accommodate her needs. One upper cabinet was reworked to house a microwave, creating a seamless solution that kept the layout efficient and practical.

The 3D perspective of the kitchen we presented to our client.

A Touch of Color

To add character, we added subway tiles in a beautiful sage green. We presented our client with two finishes options, one in textured matte and one in glossy, and the question was which would be easier to maintain. The final choice balanced both style and practicality. At 50cm tall, the tiles stack perfectly for a clean, modern look that complements the warmth of the cabinetry’s wood laminates. The color is timeless and calming, adding both depth and personality to the space while perfectly fitting our client’s style without overwhelming the kitchen.

Everyday Essentials, Elevated

Everyday durability was essential. At our client’s request, we replaced the existing sink and faucet with upgrades from Franke. The Fragranit sink is a non-porous material that resists stains, scratches, and heat, ensuring it stays beautiful for years of use. Paired with a sleek matching faucet, his combination brings both practicality and elegance to daily living.

Designed for Flexibility

Since the space in between counters could accommodate a movable island, We placed an Ikea Förhöja kitchen cart in the middle. It provides extra preparation surface, storage, and mobility, allowing the kitchen to adapt easily for cooking, entertaining, or everyday routines.

Lighting with Purpose

Good lighting brings a kitchen to life. We installed track lights with daylight LED bulbs to ensure the space feels bright and well-lit. To add focused task lighting, T5 LED lights were placed under the upper cabinets. These are not only energy-efficient but also easy to maintain, allowing our client to replace the bulbs with ease whenever needed. Together, these layers of light create a kitchen that is both functional and inviting.

The Little Details

Sometimes it is the smallest touches that make a kitchen feel complete. We added simple yet thoughtful accessories, such as a soap dispenser that comes with a sponge holder paired with a Scrub Daddy sponge, to bring both function and a bit of personality into everyday routines. To ground the space we places Ikea Bryndum rugs, a practical yet stylish addition that adds warmth and texture underfoot. These details may seem minor, but together they bring comfort and character that makes a kitchen truly feel lived in.

The First of Many Transformations

This kitchen marks the beginning of this Dreamroom transformation. By retaining what worked and upgrading with intention, we turned a builder-grade condo kitchen into a space that feels warm, functional, and elevated. The common areas, bedrooms and more are yet to unfold, each thoughtfully designed to bring the condo to life.

Thinking about upgrading your own condo kitchen?

You do not always need to replace everything to make it feel truly yours. With thoughtful design and the right details, even the simplest kitchen layouts can become warm, functional, and elevated.

*Begin your Dreamroom journey with us today. Inquire here.

From Bare to Elevated: A Condo Kitchen Transformation