From Worn to Refined: A Thoughtful Interior Refresh in San Francisco
Every space tells a story — and sometimes, that story just needs a fresh chapter.
This project took us into a charming San Francisco apartment in Japantown that had great bones but was showing its age. The finishes were tired and the overall feel lacked the comfort and elegance our clients were after. This wasn’t a full remodel, but rather a highly curated refresh — one that focused on smart upgrades, clean finishes, and attention to detail.
The Before: A Tired Canvas
When we first walked through the space, it was clear this unit had potential. Tall ceilings, original features, and natural light gave us a solid foundation — but years of wear had left the space feeling flat. The linoleum flooring in the kitchen and bath was curling at the edges. The carpet was worn and dull. Paint was faded, and the cabinetry felt stuck in another era.
We knew a total overhaul wasn’t necessary. What the space needed was a skilled hand — one that could highlight what already worked and thoughtfully update what didn’t.
The Transformation: Minimal Intervention, Maximum Impact
We began by addressing the windows. A closer inspection revealed extensive dry rot in the sashes and frames, which had to be repaired before we could move forward with painting. We carefully reglazed several panes and restored the damaged areas — a necessary step that ensured long-term durability and a clean, finished look. Here are the before and after.
We began with a clean palette: prepping and painting every wall and ceiling in soft, calming tones that elevated the light and made each room feel brighter. We painted the closet doors, bathroom cabinets, and even the inside of the medicine cabinets to give everything a clean, cohesive look.
Floors were next. We replaced the old linoleum with luxury vinyl plank flooring — a sleek, modern finish that brings warmth and durability to high-use areas like the kitchen and bath. In the living spaces and bedrooms, we installed a plush, neutral-tone carpet made for comfort and longevity.
Cabinet hardware was upgraded throughout, and we removed dated cabinets and blinds to simplify and modernize the space. We reworked the kitchen layout slightly by modifying the stove pedestal for a flush, modern fit, and installed a new high-efficiency toilet and regrouted the shower for a clean, polished finish.
During the project, we also uncovered a plumbing issue behind the washer and dryer. The previous setup had bypassed code requirements, with exposed piping and a large opening in the drywall. We corrected the issue, sealed the wall, and installed outlet boxes to ensure everything was both functional and up to code. Here is the before and after:
The Result: Elevated, Simple, and Ready to Live In
The transformation wasn’t flashy — and that’s exactly why it worked. Our approach was thoughtful, design-driven, and focused on livability. The unit now feels refreshed and refined — like a quiet luxury hotel suite tucked into the heart of the city.
This project is a great example of how small changes, when done with care, can make a big impact. Whether you're preparing a space for new tenants or breathing life into your own home, the right updates can bring out the best in what’s already there.
