Teeny Tiny Rental Renovation
Renovating with recycled cabinets can not only help the environment, but also the pocket book. With a bit of time spent searching for other recycled cabinets, lighting, bookcases, island, etc… we managed to pull this throw together suite into a decent rental unit.
Electricity to the recycled island was a must for this 400sqft suite, whereby the island was deemed the hub of the tenanted home and would act as double duty to both dining and office.
The cabinets are used but the budget appliances are new -- healthy tenants are happy tenants.
Before: Dreary and dated 70's kitchen before the update.
The solid wood island is honey oak, similar to the laminate cabinets and is very durable. The island storage provides more storage that can be used for everyday items. And the granite top helps elevate the space.
The unsightly electrical panel is now designated for the suite only. New panel for the home is reconnected inside the main home.
This single chair doubles as a single bed when folded out - helpful for when you have an overnight guest or family member visiting. Finding things that function as "double duty" is always a win in a small space.
The owners splurged on a custom wall panel to help delineate the spaces and add a unique touch. It also acts a narrow wall as well, to protect the sofa area from any cooking messes.
The original entry door and no laundry closet! To the very left you can see the doorway to the rest of the house. This was closed off so the tenant has their own space fully. Dark brown, white and gold - good bye 70s decor!
By adding a tile backsplash that complements the laminate countertop, it keeps the small space cohesive and calming.
Update your lighting every so often to keep it feeling fresh and cared for. Adding simple, peaceful artwork that complements the color scheme and furnishings allows the small rental to feel warm and inviting. Budget items can work when it is well thought out.
Excellent tenants deserve their own laundry! And when you don't have a closet for their coats - you provide them with hooks to save on coat rack space. Tiny living requires compact solutions.
Finding this inexpensive and very tall and narrow honey oak bookcase was the perfect solution for the 12 inches of available space right beside the fridge. It allows the tenant to have a place for books, bags, knick-knacks, you name it. Vertical storage is essential in a tiny space.
When your basement suite renovation is on a tight budget, take the time to figure out a design scheme to pull it all together cohesively. The end result can be very pleasing to the eye, not to mention the pocket book.
White tile for your tub and shower are timeless, while adding a punch of color or pattern through a shower curtain is temporary and can add style - much easier to change out - and much easier than adding wallpaper! Don't forget to add little touches like robe or towel hooks and art work to help make the bathroom an equally enjoyable room in the rental.
Opt for an inexpensive, large mirror if your room is small and beautiful - the reflection of light and sparkle adds to the serene ambience.
When updating a rental space, recycling a solid wood vanity over an MDF trendy unit will last longer and save you time and money by not having to replace it every so often.
When possible, splurge on some artwork to add some interest to your walls. Shop local and support your local artists!