Renovating a 1970s flat. This is how they did it in Warsaw

·29 May 2026

On Dzikia Street in Warsaw, architect Piotr Pamięta from the p:am studio renovated a typical 1970s flat, transforming it into a much more functional space. The flat measures 65 square metres and, following the makeover, has gained an additional bedroom area. The design was created with the two owners in mind, who had previously renovated the kitchen themselves and wanted to maintain a consistent aesthetic throughout the interior, particularly in relation to that room.

Renovation of a 1970s flat – a new layout

The starting point for the entire design was the characteristic layout typical of housing estates built using the ‘H’ frame construction method. The architect had to work within the flat’s existing layout whilst giving the interior greater flexibility of use. His work focused on the hallway, bathroom and living area. The biggest change in the flat was the creation of a bedroom within the living room. Piotr Pamięta planned sliding glass doors and curtains there, allowing the residents to easily adjust the openness of this part of their home. At times, the room functions as a spacious living room, whilst at others it offers a more intimate setting for relaxation.

Light and reflections in the interior

Light and the play of reflections played a major role in the design. Glazing and mirrors help to distribute sunlight between the rooms, making the flat appear larger than its actual floor area suggests. In the evening, the atmosphere is created by diffused light sources that highlight the textures of the materials and the colour accents of the fittings. Instead of showy decorations, the focus is on a calm atmosphere and a few stronger clusters of colour.

Remont mieszkania z lat 70

Navy blue, burgundy and dark green

The entire colour scheme of the flat was developed around the existing navy blue kitchen. It was this that set the direction for the designer’s subsequent decisions. And so, natural wood, burgundy in the bedroom area and dark green in the hallway and bathroom were introduced into the interior. In this way, the flat now has a more atmospheric feel, but without feeling overdone. Simple forms appear alongside bolder colours, creating an interesting combination.

Renovation of a 1970s flat by Piotr Pamięta

A great deal of attention was also paid to the bathroom. The limited floor space required a thorough analysis of every part of this interior. Fortunately, space was found for a washing machine, a tumble dryer and additional storage, without compromising the room’s openness or ease of use. Ultimately, Piotr Pamięta created a flat on Dzika Street that is tailor-made for its residents, perfectly reflecting their personalities and meeting their needs, whilst also making full use of the potential of the prefabricated concrete slab construction.

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About the studio:
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p:am is an architectural studio founded by Piotr Pamięta and a team of specialists in architecture and interior design. The studio undertakes projects of various scales, focusing on aesthetic coherence, functionality and adaptation to clients’ lifestyles. The team manages projects from the concept stage, through detailed drawings and cost estimates, right through to site supervision. p:am’s projects are characterised by simple forms, a calm atmosphere and a minimalist approach, in line with the idea that ‘less is more’.