Luxury Downsizing: Reimagining a Dated Apartment - Project Blue Horizon

Bright, open concept living room with a stone fireplace, cast stone mantle, and two neutral sofas facing each other

For many of our clients, downsizing is a major life transition that often feels overwhelming. At Interiors By Sarah Langtry, we believe that moving into a smaller footprint shouldn't mean sacrificing style or soul—it’s an opportunity for a thoughtful, intentional fresh start.

Today, we are thrilled to pull back the curtain on Project Blue Horizon, a full-service gut renovation and furnishing project that transformed a cramped, dated apartment into a timeless, contemporary sanctuary.

Open living space centered around a stone fireplace with a custom mantle and symmetrical seating arrangement

The Vision: Open, Airy, and Livable

Our clients own the building and decided to take back this unit after a tenant moved out. The original layout felt closed off, with small, dark rooms that did not reflect how they wanted to live.

Our goal was to open everything up and create a space that feels both elevated and comfortable for everyday life. By reworking the entire floor plan, we transformed it into a bright, open concept home that feels welcoming without sacrificing sophistication.

Fireplace detail featuring a cast stone mantle, natural stone surround, and mounted lighting above

Close view of a fireplace with textured stone, custom mantle, and warm lighting from wall sconces

Angled view of a gas fireplace with a cast stone mantle, stone surround, and brass wall sconces

The Fireplace Moment

We found what was essentially a “door to nowhere” in the main living space. Instead of trying to make it work, we turned it into a true focal point with a gas fireplace, a custom cast stone mantle, and a textured stone surround.

To make the most of the space, we added built in benches on either side. They provide extra seating, hidden storage, and help frame the fireplace so it feels intentional and grounded within the room.

Kitchen with a wood range hood, white tile backsplash, and quartz countertops extending into the window sills

A Smart Kitchen Solution

The existing windows sat lower than standard counter height, which could have been a major issue. Instead of replacing them, we extended the quartz countertops directly into the window sills.

The result is a seamless detail that feels intentional, while creating a natural spot for fresh herbs right at the window.

This approach allowed us to work with the existing architecture while still achieving a clean, custom look.

Hiding the Not So Pretty Stuff
In one closet, we had to work around a suspended HVAC system that still needed access. We created removable decorative panels that keep everything functional while still looking clean.

Decorative panels designed to hide mechanical equipment within a closet space

Built-in cabinetry with removable panels providing access to a concealed HVAC system

A Touch of Blue in All the Right Places

While our brand often leans toward warm, grounded neutrals, we always want a home to reflect the people living in it. Our client loves blue, so we brought it in through thoughtful, unexpected details.

Butler’s pantry with blue cabinetry and a checkerboard floor

Bathroom and laundry area with blue tile detail and minimal fixtures

Laundry and ensuite space featuring blue tile and clean, modern finishes

Designed for the Long Term

Because our clients plan to stay here long term, we focused on features that will support them over time. The ensuite includes a curbless, open shower for easy access, along with wall mounted faucets for a clean, modern look.

Accessible walk-in shower with no curb, neutral tile, and a seamless, open layout

““We love finding creative ways to solve design challenges while creating spaces that feel as good as they look.””

— Sarah Langtry

Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life?

Whether you are building a custom home or planning a renovation, our team is here to guide you through every step. From the first idea to the final styling touches, we are here to make the process feel easier and more enjoyable.

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