A Home Reimagined: Renovation in Maida Vale

When we first stepped into Sonja’s flat, we immediately recognised its inherent potential. After almost two decades as a rental property, the space was certainly ready for a new chapter. The walls, a monotonous palette of white, the worn carpet, and outdated plumbing and electrics all pointed to a need for more than just an update – a complete transformation was in order.

From the outset, our focus was to deeply understand our client’s vision for her home. Sonja dreamt of a calm, warm sanctuary that would feel welcoming, safe, and secure, with ample opportunity for her personal touch and future DIY projects. We approached every stage of the renovation with this intention at its heart. The two months that followed were a journey of steady progress, marked by a commitment to clear communication and a shared goal.

At Innovate Home Solutions, we believe that successful renovations are built on transparency and a collaborative spirit. While every project has its unique rhythm, our aim is always to ensure clients feel informed and engaged. With Sonja, this partnership truly shaped the entire journey, fostering an environment where ideas could be explored and decisions made with care, leading to a truly co-created outcome.

As the work unfolded room by room, the transformation became wonderfully clear. The lounge, for example, was opened up through a refined layout, its foundation improved with soundproof underlay beneath new flooring. Electrics were expertly rerouted and upgraded, lighting reimagined, and lines cleaned and simplified, all contributing to a brighter, more inviting atmosphere.

The engineered hardwood floor was thoughtfully carried throughout the space, creating a bright and natural flow that leads seamlessly from the lounge, down the hallway, and into the bedroom. Complemented by carefully selected new tiles at the entry, this comprehensive reset established a peaceful environment that feels inherently inviting and homely. As Sonja herself shared, ‘I love how bright and airy my flat is. It is even more apparent now with the new floors, new light fixtures that emphasise the high ceilings, and fresh walls. My bedroom has plenty of storage and feels massive despite being the smallest room!’

The kitchen marked perhaps the most dramatic shift. After removing the old fixtures and preparing the room for its new configuration, the arrival of the new kitchen units truly brought the space to life. What was once a dated, standard kitchen was transformed into a warm, character-filled space with undeniable country charm.

The redesign features included beautifully crafted wooden countertops, a classic farmhouse-style butler sink, refreshed cabinetry with thoughtful finishes, and new lighting that softens the entire room while providing focused illumination for workspaces. This project beautifully demonstrated that a renovation doesn’t have to break the bank to create a space that feels lived-in, loved, and absolutely dream-worthy, with items sourced smartly from flat-packs, second-hand finds, and online orders.

Behind every visible change was a structured and methodical workflow. Regular progress updates were key in guiding decisions, from plastering inspections and sash adjustments to flooring installation, mist coating, boiler servicing, and the timely delivery of tiles, radiators, and the kitchen itself. This level of organisation is a priority for us at Innovate Home Solutions, ensuring the work progresses efficiently and the quality of the build is consistently upheld.

The most meaningful moment arrived near the project’s completion: as Sonja began moving her belongings in, she told us the flat finally felt like home. Hearing that brought the project full circle. It reminded us that doing things properly, with consideration and a focus on the client’s ultimate satisfaction, is what truly defines a successful renovation.

Sonja reflected on her experience: I started working with IHS initially simply because they were able to deliver all services for my project in one hand. Over time, this became a collaboration where the team knew exactly which design of sash fittings I would want, for example, or where we challenged each other on the size of the radiators, leading to a result that truly feels co-created.’

This project was more than just a refurbishment; it was a collaborative journey built on shared vision, careful planning, and the mutual aim of creating a home that feels calm, welcoming, and deeply personal. Watching Sonja’s flat come together was a genuine pleasure, and we are incredibly proud to have delivered a space that perfectly supports the next chapter of her life in Queen’s Park.