Top 5 of the week: Low key apartments and dramatic makeovers

This design of this apartment refurbishment was executed by Archdesign | LX, a young design office founded in 2008 and established in Lisbon. The home is a fusion of old and new – a historic building revamped with the pioneering computer aided design techniques that Archdesign are famous for.

The old stone wall has lived many years and seen many lives come in and out through its openings, and countless stories remain etched in the walls' surface. But now a new door is slotted between its flanks; a door with no past, only a promise of new memories to be made within the old stone walls. What does number 38 have in store for us?

Sometimes, it can be easy to get stuck in a design rut. It will cost too much money to redesign, we tell ourselves, or there's no point, it will never look better. Here at homify, our mission is to prove you wrong. Even the most ridiculously neglected homes are not beyond all hope. 

If you're sceptical, you NEED to check out our list of truly shocking renovations. From derelict to modern chic in just a few simple steps, our professionals know exactly how to turn an old hovel into a cosy home.

Kitchen bars and countertops are pretty much essential in a modern kitchen. Not only do they give you a place to work and prepare your food ready for cooking, they can also provide extra depth and style to your kitchen by changing up the colours and levels. Not to mention they're a great place to kick back and hang with a coffee on a lazy Sunday morning!

The perfect kitchen island can, however, be hard to find. But never fear – we have the ultimate list of materials to choose from, their pros and cons, and why they would work in your kitchen. Check them out and be inspired…

Bedrooms can be tricky to decorate at the best of times, but it becomes 10 times harder when you have to factor in a major space shortage. Suddenly, simple things, such as where to store your clothes or how many bedside tables to include, become terrifyingly huge questions with a whole lot riding on the answers.

If you're having problems with your cramped bedroom, then we have just the guide for you. Check it out, and thank us later.

For many people, the kitchen can present a challenge when it comes to designing or renovating a property because it serves a very functional, practical purpose, so ergonomic factors must be taken into account. 

However, it’s also the heart of the home, a room you’re likely to spend a lot of time in with the family or entertaining guests, so aesthetic considerations are also very important. This five minute read provides a quick but concise overview of the most popular contemporary kitchen designs to help you make up your mind - enjoy!

That's all for this week! Remember to stay tuned to homify for more magical makeovers, inspiring tours and helpful home hacks. See you next Sunday!