The cost of finishing an apartment is the most common question asked by people picking up a property in developer condition. Finishing an apartment depends on many factors, which we tell you about below. Here you will find both the elements that affect the price of completion, as well as ready ideas on how to optimize the cost of interior finishing without losing quality.
Scope of finishing works
Rethink the functional layout before starting work
One of the main factors affecting the final cost of finishing an apartment is the scope of work. Changes to the functional layout, such as rearranging walls, modifying installations, or the need to remove debris, can significantly increase the cost of the investment. Therefore, it is worthwhile at the stage of purchasing an apartment to carefully analyze its layout and functionality to avoid costly alterations.
Wall standard – is smoothing always necessary?
Evaluate the quality of plastering before you decide on additional work
Many people choose to do smoothing without checking the quality of the plaster beforehand. If the walls are even and smooth, they can be painted after proper preparation, saving up to several thousand zlotys. However, it is worth remembering that poorly prepared surfaces may require post-painting touch-ups, which consequently generate additional costs – often higher than the cost of a standard finish.
Finishing materials – where are the price differences hidden?
Finishing an apartment isn’t just about labor – materials matter too
Another aspect that affects the cost of finishing an apartment is the finishing materials. The standard of materials we choose is of great importance for the final budget. It is worth considering whether every element of the arrangement must be made of more expensive materials – perhaps instead of architectural concrete, well-chosen wallpaper or textured plaster will work? This is a way to cut costs without giving up an interesting visual effect.
When choosing tiles, pay attention not only to their price per square meter, but also to their format. Large tiles, while fashionable and striking, require a specialized approach and a more experienced contractor, which can significantly increase the cost of labor. Small mosaic tiles are also labor-intensive and expensive to lay. If you want to optimize your budget, it is advisable to choose a standard tile format and avoid complicated patterns and materials that require time-consuming processing.
Interior doors – style and installation matter
Doors with a concealed frame are a bigger expense
The type of interior door chosen also affects the final cost of the finish. Doors with a concealed frame are more elegant, but also more expensive and require more labor for installation. You also need to think about them well in advance, since they require preparation of the door openings as early as the wet work stage.
Fittings – not worth saving at any cost
Cheap fittings = fast replacement
Low-quality fixtures can generate additional costs over time, so it is better to invest in proven products that will serve us for years. When choosing a mixer, pay attention not only to design, but also to the quality of materials, warranty and availability of spare parts.
Flooring – where to look for savings?
Panels, vinyl or microcement?
Floors are the surface that we exploit the most in daily use. Laminate panels are the cheapest option, but also the least durable. Vinyl is a good compromise between durability and price – it is resistant to moisture and easy to install. Wood and microcement are higher-end materials, but they provide a unique visual effect and are very durable. It is worth thinking carefully about the choice of material, because replacing the floor in the future involves a lot of work and expense.
Customized furniture – when is it worth opting for it?
Optimizing space at the expense of budget
Bespoke furniture is a solution that works especially well in small apartments, where every centimeter of space matters. Although more expensive than ready-made sets from chain stores, they allow maximum use of available space and give the interior an individual character. The cost of customized furniture depends on the chosen systems, materials and the level of complexity of the project.
Summary
Finishing an apartment in terms of cost depends on a great many factors – from the scope of work to the choice of materials to the final furnishings. The more elements are thought through at the design stage, the greater the chance of avoiding unforeseen expenses. When planning your budget, it’s a good idea to leave yourself a safety margin for unforeseen costs that may arise during the finishing work. You can learn more about this topic in the video below!
