Inside Muji's Newest Store at 54 Cooper Square, NYC

Muij, the Japanese retailer of minimalist home and lifestyle goods, recently opened their 6th U.S. store (fifth in NYC). We were given a preview of their pristine duplex space and latest products. 

Seeing New York City native Asher Israelow's furniture pieces at the Architectural Digest Home Show, I was drawn to their mid-century vibe with a modern twist. In neutral colors and carefully chosen shapes that reflect times past as well as current taste, the work feel very livable, with a bit of glam in the form of gold specks in the very special table seen above. 

When Billy and Sally bought this 775 square foot apartment in the Fort Greene area of Brooklyn, it had a few of the less-than-charming features common to many NYC area flats — badly worn floors; a tiny, cramped kitchen, awkwardly separated from the rest of the space. With the power vested in them as new homeowners, they decided to do something about it, embarking on an inspiring renovation that shows just how much living you can do in a small space. 

Spring seems to be taking its sweet time in getting started across much of the country. If you're feeling a little sluggish from this cold and rainy Spring, perhaps a little retail therapy is what you need. Check out all the sales and events in the Weekend Guide, pass it on and be sure to send us your own sale or event.

Name: Shell Azar
Location:  Greenwich Village, NYC
Size:  Started with 420 square feet; increased to 520 square feet (not including outdoor terrace)
Years lived in: 6 

Shell lives and works in this gorgeous studio space, which she recently transformed, with the help of architect James Vira, into an open and inviting place to call home. Materials are used in a way that's true to their nature, giving the studio an invigorating and creative feel. 

Name: TODA
Location: DUMBO; Brooklyn, New York
Size: 1,500 square feet
Years in business: 13 years

From the moment you walk into this workspace, you'll instantly feel the creative vibe. Its main features are soft light and breathtaking views of the Manhattan bridge. This is the home of TODA, a multidisciplinary design studio in Brooklyn with sensible style and a heart for well crafted design.