How To Achieve A Modern Look in an Old Apartment

Apartments are often cookie-cutter layouts with little to no differences between units. But that doesn’t mean you can’t design your apartment to be unique. Adding a touch of personalization is easier than you might think. You only need two things to pull it off: a little decorating know-how and modern apartment decor. With this in mind, we’ve put together modern apartment design and decorating tips to help you get started!

Okay so you got a great deal on an apartment in Miami. The only problem – it could use a little updating. Despite not having total freedom to remodel an apartment, there’s still a lot you can do to bring your place into the modern age.

Here’s a room-by-room breakdown of ways to modernize each space in your apartment.

A More Modern Kitchen

  • Cabinet hardware: It’s easy to replace outdated hardware with more modern looking options. Go for simple, streamlined hardware in stainless steel, nickel, or bronze finishes.
  • Chalkboard for design and function: You can get a chalkboard or use chalkboard paint to create a place to write out lists or draw temporary artwork.
  • Add some bright accessories: Think yellow, acid green, and aqua to turn up the volume in an otherwise outdated kitchen.
  • Think mid-century modern for your small appliances: A retro look for your blender, toaster, etc., is a throwback that’s future proof.

Modern Day Bathroom Design

  • Showy shower curtain: The shower curtain is the statement piece of the restroom, so don’t be afraid to go bold. Try a maxi floral print or bright, large stripes.
  • Go all white: Not only will it make the space feel larger, but a clean all-white space is always ultra modern.
  • Add a little green to your windows: Instead of using curtains or blinds in the bathroom window, create privacy with plants. Line up plants on the windowsill and/or hang a plant so that it dangles in front of the glass.

Updating Your Living Room

  • Add pops of white on the wall: If you have a wall that is painted, add all-white accessories. Even the simplest items will really stand out.
  • Graphic prints: Pillows, curtains, lampshades, and wall art with big, bold graphic prints instantly add a modern touch.
  • Transparent furniture: See-through furniture made of glass and plastic will not only make your space seem larger, but it will also make the room look more modern at the same time.
  • Oversized coffee table: Keep the table square or rectangular with curvy, ornate panels between the legs.

Bedroom

  • Preppy décor: Go prep school cool with clean plaids and a yuppy color scheme. Keep things streamlined and put together – absolutely no clutter.
  • Add in metallics: A metal night table or metal-framed mirror gives any bedroom a modern edge. Even subtle touches can make a big impact.
  • Lacquered wood: The sheen of lacquer creates a high-gloss, polished look that can be overpowering, but paired with the plush fabrics of the bedroom, it’s balanced out for a chic, updated look.

All the ideas above are quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive updates that can help bring your apartment into the modern day.