How Davide Ferrante completely reimagined his run-down period flat

When Davide Ferrante first stepped into the period flat, it smelled of decades of neglect. Crumbling plasterwork, worn floorboards and a layout that no longer worked for anyone. Most prospective buyers had walked away. He stayed.

Ferrante is a businessman, not a tradesperson. He knew these rooms could become something special, but not in what order or with which contractors. “I can run a company,” he says, “but you cannot manage a full refurbishment on the side.”

BeforeAfter

Through cleverbauen24, he received vetted quotes from suitable specialist contractors and a dedicated contact who kept track of everything. The chaos became a plan: first demolition and layout changes, then pipework and the bathroom, and finally flooring and finishes.

In around six months, an entirely new flat took shape. The historic decorative plasterwork was carefully restored rather than removed, new premium herringbone parquet replaced the old floors, and walls came down to create an open living space. The bathroom was rebuilt from scratch: with a level-access walk-in shower, a freestanding bath beneath the period window, a double vanity with a backlit mirror and large-format tiles.

BeforeAfter

I am a businessman, not a site manager. Having someone coordinate the trades and take the pressure off me made all the difference.

Davide FerranteProperty owner · Berlin-Steglitz

Today, Davide Ferrante stands in a flat that bears little resemblance to its former state: bright and open, with period character and the comfort of a new build. “I would do it the same way again,” he says. “Just more relaxed.”