Old-building charm meets modern kitchen
A warm welcome to our (@3.og.links), or rather to our kitchen. As one can easily guess from our Instagram profile name, we live in an old apartment building on the 3rd floor in Frankfurt. We – that's my husband Flo and myself, Julia, both 38 years young. When we got the offer to buy our 3.og.links during the summer of 2018, we didn't think twice and jumped at the opportunity – although we hadn't planned for it, but as they say, unexpected opportunities often arise. In January 2019 the renovation started and since March 2019, we've been living here and are very happy with our decision.
Apartments in big cities and especially older buildings often have the disadvantage of limited available space. What tips do you have for planning a small kitchen?
This is a tricky question, perhaps the trickiest of all. ;) I think when you don't have much space available, you're quickly tempted to go overboard rather than keeping things minimal. However, we decided for the opposite: Keeping things minimal rather than going overboard. In other words: focus on the essentials and don't overcrowd the space.
What were your must-haves that absolutely had to be in your kitchen?
We were lucky with our previous kitchen that our ex-landlord had installed a brand-new kitchen with an induction stove, therefore an induction stove was an absolute must-have for me.
What unfortunately no longer fit into your kitchen, but you'd absolutely get if you had a big kitchen?
Definitely a kitchen island! I think kitchen islands are great, but that would be really unthinkable in our kitchen.
How do you create as much storage space as possible in a small kitchen?
I would say wall cabinets and using the entire ceiling height. We were aware that, by omitting wall cabinets, we naturally had to forgo storage space, but it was worth it to us. I think it's important to be very conscious about what's important to you. In our case, we decided in favour of aesthetics and against more storage space. :)
GlossaryWhat does Urban Style living mean?
Capture the inspiration of the big city and give your own four walls an urban flair. An old building often impresses with its very special charm, which should be preserved. In addition, it offers the chance to furnish in urban style and create a very special living atmosphere. How can the old-building charm be retained while simultaneously increasing practical benefits? This requires sensitivity when choosing décor and a skillful hand in planning.
Cleverly planned: How to achieve a stylish and functional kitchen in a small space
In their small old-building kitchen, the couple relies on minimalism instead of overload. An induction stove was a must-have, whereas a kitchen island was not feasible. Instead of creating maximum storage space through wall cabinets, they deliberately chose an open look. The conclusion: Set priorities and adapt the kitchen to your own needs.
Do you have tips for interior organization to make the most of limited space?
I think everyone knows this situation: You have countless Tupperware containers, but most of them you almost never use. Less is more ;)
Despite the limited space, you decided against wall cabinets. Why is that?
Quite simply: I don't like wall cabinets. I absolutely see the advantage of wall cabinets (storage space!), yet they weren't an option for us.
In an older building, there are many challenges, including kitchen planning. You had to integrate a boiler, for example. How did you manage to accommodate it so that the overall look of the kitchen still remains attractive?
The boiler is a separate story—I initially found it terribly ugly and would have liked to get rid of it completely, which of course wasn't possible. In the end, we deliberately chose not to conceal it, and meanwhile I think the boiler actually enhances the cool look of our kitchen.
Were there other challenges with planning and installation due to the older building?
Oh yes, there were. None of our walls are straight; the installers definitely did some cursing.
Did you also integrate a dining area into your kitchen?
Yes, but it's really very small, as we have a fairly large dining table in the living/dining room. We built a kind of counter ourselves, with two barstools in front. So one person can sit at the counter while the other cooks – that's usually me, as in our home it's typically the man of the house who wields the cooking spoon. :)
Frankfurt is known as a wine region. Does that have a place in your kitchen, e.g. through a wine rack?
To be precise, Frankfurt is the home of Apfelwein. (Which personally I don't like at all, though you're not allowed to say that loudly here.) However, despite the fact that we don't drink Apfelwein, a classic Bembel is an absolute must in our kitchen. Additionally, Frankfurt is close to several wonderful wine-growing regions, and we enjoy having a glass from time to time. We store our wine bottles in an old wine crate on top of the refrigerator.
In your pictures, the kitchen always looks wonderfully decorated. What's your secret?
I love details, and if I find something I like, it tends to stay for a long time. This means I don't constantly redecorate. And: plants — plants always work!
Kitchen planning in old buildings: Creative solutions for style and functionality
Less is more – clear organization, no wall cabinets. Despite concerns, the boiler was integrated into the design. Sloping walls demanded skill during installation. Counter, wine crate, and plants provide cozy accents.
Julia from Frankfurt
The kitchen is so much more; as we all know, the best parties take place here!
How do you manage to bring coziness into your clean white kitchen?
We have installed real wooden floorboards in our kitchen, which, in my opinion, add a lot of warmth and coziness. In addition, we have white linen curtains, which I find very beautiful and curtains always create a cozy atmosphere.
Why did you decide on an old apartment, and what particularly attracts you to old buildings?
We simply love old buildings! Our previous apartment was also in an old building and we fell in love with its high ceilings, paneled doors, and creaky wooden floors, etc. Of course, there are also super beautiful new buildings, and they certainly come with some advantages, but as of today, we cannot imagine living in a new building. But one should never say never... Who knows what the future might bring.
You renovated the apartment yourselves. What had to be done?
Everything! We completely renovated the apartment before moving in – meaning we ripped out everything and renovated from scratch. Except for the 120-year-old wooden floors in the living areas, which we definitely wanted to preserve, even though, naturally, their age is visible.
What tips would you give to other people renovating old apartments regarding kitchen planning? When is the best time to start?
a. It always takes longer than you think – allow enough buffer time
b. It's always more expensive than you think – definitely allow enough buffer here too
What significance does the kitchen have for you? Do you enjoy cooking? Is the kitchen the center of your home?
My husband enjoys cooking, I enjoy eating – so we are an absolute dream team. However, I wouldn't describe our kitchen as the center of our home. In general, we're always on the go and also incredibly enjoy eating out.
What does life in the kitchen mean for you?
Clearly – the kitchen is the place in the apartment where food is prepared. But the kitchen is much more than that; as is well known, the best parties take place here. ;) Additionally, our balcony is accessible from our kitchen, so it is essentially a kitchen and open-air living and dining room all in one. :)
How would you describe your apartment and your interior style? Does your character reflect your furnishing?
Retro, detail-oriented, cozy, lively – and yes, I believe it reflects my character quite well.
What inspired you to choose your style?
I usually get inspired by spontaneous ideas; I'm quite impulsive in that sense. Of course, I also enjoy flipping through magazines, scrolling through Instagram, but before I buy an "It-Piece," I think about it again carefully – and then generally come to the conclusion that the trendy It-Piece simply doesn't suit our apartment.
More information
In our kitchen journal you will find even more inspiration for the individual planning and design of your dream kitchen.
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