Transforming a 34-pyeong (approx. 1,120 sq ft) older Korean apartment with a white and wood aesthetic is a popular 2026 trend, focusing on cost-effective renovations. The key is to address foundational issues like mold in a 24-year-old unit and then apply a clean, minimalist design, prioritizing essential spaces for maximum impact within budget.
How to Refresh a 24-Year-Old Korean Apartment with White & Wood Interiors?
This 34-pyeong (approx. 1,120 sq ft) Duosan Samho apartment in Imae-dong, Seongnam, South Korea, was a prime candidate for a major renovation due to its 24 years of age, showing significant signs of wear and potential mold. The primary goal was not just aesthetic improvement but a thorough foundational overhaul. Following the client's preferences, the overall color scheme was set to white and wood, creating a minimalist living room with clean lines and subtle indirect lighting. Instead of a TV, a white bookshelf and storage unit were installed on the main wall, maximizing space utility for family use. High-quality materials like LX Besti wallpaper and LX Diamant flooring from Dongwha Marble were used to achieve a warm and stable atmosphere. This approach demonstrates that even older Korean apartments can achieve a satisfying, modern look within a budget by focusing on essential upgrades.
Revitalizing a Cramped Older Apartment Kitchen: Enhancing Space and Storage
Like many older Korean apartments, this unit's kitchen was notably small and felt cramped. To address this while minimizing renovation costs and maximizing usability, significant attention was paid to the kitchen's layout. The faucet's position was adjusted, and the kitchen fit was relocated to open up the sightlines from the living room. The countertop length was extended, and ample upper cabinets were added to solve storage challenges. To add visual interest and break the monotony, the upper cabinets were finished in a wood tone while the lower cabinets are white. This combination, along with the strategic use of linear lighting, creates a clean yet dynamic kitchen space. This practical and budget-conscious strategy offers a viable solution for clients concerned about renovation expenses.
Updating an Old Apartment Bathroom for a Cozy and Cohesive Feel
The bathroom in this older apartment was in poor condition due to years of neglect, making a thorough foundational repair essential for comfortable use. To complement the warm wood tones of the living area, brown porcelain tiles were chosen for the bathroom, creating a cozy and cohesive ambiance. The smaller adjacent bathroom was finished in the same tone to maintain overall spatial harmony. The vanity countertop and sides feature a clean 'jolly cut' finish for a sleek look. This careful selection of tiles and finishing techniques elevates the bathroom into a more luxurious and relaxing space.
Redefining the Entrance: Modifying Layout and Adding a Door for a Welcoming Atmosphere
The entryway of the Imae-dong Duosan Samho apartment was initially poorly defined and somewhat cluttered. Reorganizing the entrance space to better suit the overall layout of the home was necessary. A partition wall was constructed, and a sliding door was installed facing the living room. Frosted glass (moru glass) was used in the clean white frame of the door, allowing soft, diffused light to filter through, creating a gentle atmosphere. To contrast the calm white and wood theme of the apartment, a more vibrant tile was chosen for the entryway floor, adding a visual spark. Considering the limited space, ample storage was incorporated, alongside thoughtful lighting solutions to prevent the area from feeling cramped. This resulted in an entryway that is both cozy and lively. The individual rooms were kept simple and clean to save on costs, focusing on essential updates.
For more detailed renovation insights, explore the original article.
