Introduction to High-Rise Living
With over four decades of experience in Houston real estate, Amy Bernstein, Broker and Owner of Bernstein Realty, has had the privilege of walking through thousands of homes. She’s helped clients make incredibly important life decisions, whether they were building new, purchasing a resale, or remodeling. But nothing compares to renovating your own space, especially after seeing so many beautiful properties and custom features over the years.
The Importance of Renovation
Amy’s recent condominium renovation was more than a design project; it was an exploration into what it really means to create a home designed for her specific needs. She wanted to create a space that felt open, but was functional for living, entertaining, and working from home — something that combined modern convenience with timeless elegance. Whether you’re a first-time condominium owner or a seasoned homeowner considering high-rise living, Amy’s goal in sharing this journey is to offer practical takeaways and a glimpse of what’s possible when you combine vision with the right strategy and put together the right team.
Challenges of High-Rise Renovation
One of the first things Amy learned was that remodeling in a high-rise comes with unique challenges. There are structural limitations like plumbing stacks, concrete ceilings, and load-bearing walls. Not to mention building management rules and HOA requirements. She worked closely with building staff and engineers early on, ensuring they could raise ceilings where possible, as well as coordinate deliveries and work schedules within building guidelines.
Building the Right Team
No successful renovation happens solo, especially in a high-rise, where timing, logistics, and coordination are everything. Amy relied on a trusted circle of professionals who understood not only the vision but the unique constraints of high-rise living. From a contractor who has become one of her dearest friends to a talented architect to experts in flooring, cabinetry, paint, AV, lighting, wall coverings, window treatments, and more. Having a nucleus of experienced experts allowed them to stay nimble and bring each detail to life with precision and purpose.
Designing for Elevated Living
When living vertically, flow and function are everything. Amy reimagined how she would move through the space from the moment she stepped off the elevator. She created an open, light-filled floor plan where spaces connect seamlessly while maintaining a sense of purpose and privacy. She also built her dream home office overlooking the Houston skyline – an inspiring view to start and end each day. The kitchen’s layout is effortless and intuitive, ideal for both quiet mornings and entertaining.
Key Takeaways
Amy’s experience has taught her the importance of defining the vision, building the right team, and working within the constraints of the building. She’s also learned that subtle changes, such as raising ceiling heights, can bring a dramatic impact. Smart lighting, motorized shades and draperies, and integrated audio systems also enhanced the living experience while staying visually understated.
Conclusion
Amy’s renovation journey was a personal experience that reminded her how much potential high-rise homes truly hold. With the right planning, team, and vision, even the most established buildings can become a canvas for elevated living. Her goal is to guide others in discovering the possibilities and rewards that high-rise living can offer, and to be a trusted resource along the way. By sharing her journey, others can feel empowered to take on their own remodel, whether a small or large project, and turn inspiration into reality, high above the city below.
