apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time


Small Cool 2009: Kimmer's Old & New
Small Division #06

thumbs up

Who Lives Here: Kimmer & Jari (Henry + Lulu kitties)
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Size: 1,090 square feet

What is your one favorite element in your small, cool home? My favorite element in my home is the natural light, the openness, the sense of loftiness... the floor to ceiling windows and bright views.

Give Kimmer a THUMBS UP if you think this home belongs in the finals!
Thumbs Up Voting is only activated for 48 Hours — so don't delay!
 
 

What was one of the biggest challenges you faced in furnishing your small home? Because it is a newly constructed building, I felt I needed to tone down some of the slick materials used, so that the details of the space felt more artfully worn in. To add some texture I painted over the original silver stock fixtures to soften and create a more industrial look.

There was also no closet or storage space (welcome to NYC!) To remedy this, I installed shoji screens which not only provided storage solutions but also brought in warmer more organic material. I installed shelves created from reclaimed timber I found dumpster diving and my coffee table is made from two massive construction timbers perched atop a base of two cinder blocks.

A few of my favorite pieces of furniture I literally found on the street, including an old double-wide children's school desk. Inexpensive shelf boxes from IKEA were used in my studio both for storage and creating unique displays of curios and found objects. These collections are tightly edited, bringing little stories to nooks without compromising the clean, uncluttered atmosphere.

The push-pull of old and new strikes a balance so the modern won't look pretentious and the worn doesn't feel shabby. This approach for me transforms a small space into a calm experience rather than overwhelming or chaotic. I think of my home as a grown up tree house (well actually more of a nest in a tree) in Brooklyn.

Give Kimmer a THUMBS UP if you think this home belongs in the finals!
Thumbs Up Voting is only activated for 48 Hours — so don't delay!


room-board-banner09.jpg

Do you have a Small Cool Home? Enter Here by April 13th!

Tags

Small Cool 2009, Small, Brooklyn

Related Links

Share

Comments (84)

i am in love with your kitchen!

posted by abigailbelle on April 8th 2009 at 2:27pm
view abigailbelle's profile

Color scheme, warm earth tones, natural light, fantastic kitchen, great bedroom...this is a winner!

posted by Usbek de Perse on April 8th 2009 at 2:32pm
view Usbek de Perse's profile

This doesn't at all feel slick and modern. It feels cozy,warm and worn in.

posted by adetoth on April 8th 2009 at 2:37pm
view adetoth's profile

Wonderful.

posted by CGfromMN on April 8th 2009 at 2:45pm
view CGfromMN's profile

I first looked at this and thought it was another kind of sort-of okay loft space, but then I saw the details-- you've done a lovely job of softening and complicating the generic floorplan/lines of the space. I love the kind of organic surfaces and textures you have brought to this-- a beautiful job, subtle and expressive.

posted by Juliet on April 8th 2009 at 2:48pm
view Juliet's profile

Alright, where's the sofa from? Spill it!

posted by zaky on April 8th 2009 at 2:51pm
view zaky's profile

So beautiful. May I have some tea?

posted by luna on April 8th 2009 at 2:53pm
view luna's profile

Lovely - agree with adetoth's comments above.
"Cozy, warm and worn in".

posted by Gallivant on April 8th 2009 at 2:55pm
view Gallivant's profile

Very nice space and I do like how you married different styles together to not overwhelm the space with one style so together it's more of a cohesive space.

However the color pallette needs something bold and bright to add a little zing. Doesn't need to be a lot but something just the same for right now it's a lot of earth tones and grays and is a little too muted.

If I read the floor plan right, whoever thought to put the washer and dryer upstairs when it looks like your bedroom is downstairs makes no sense.

What looks like an otherwise generic "modern" condo has been given detail and life through what you have put in the space.

posted by ciddyguy on April 8th 2009 at 3:01pm
view ciddyguy's profile

That sideboard with the weathered barn doors is EXACTLYwhat I have been looking for for years.

posted by beamish on April 8th 2009 at 3:02pm
view beamish's profile

Beautiful!! Doubtless, one of my Top 3.

posted by An Clár on April 8th 2009 at 3:05pm
view An Clár's profile

my favorite so far!

posted by mahoganymoon on April 8th 2009 at 3:06pm
view mahoganymoon's profile

Love the sofa - where did you buy it?

posted by oliviahh on April 8th 2009 at 3:10pm
view oliviahh's profile

My favorite too!

Its a loft townhouse yawn with predictable cherry veneer and black granite counters but you made is so earthy and great tonal with greige, washed grays and other earthy colors, textures and nice details. Excellent job.

posted by LoriSF on April 8th 2009 at 3:13pm
view LoriSF's profile

See, I don't agree with all your decorating choices (those stools in the first photo? no thank you) but you actually have good taste and it's very ADULT.

I would move into your place.

posted by FilthyMcNasty on April 8th 2009 at 3:14pm
view FilthyMcNasty's profile

Love the modern/rustic/Asian style here. This is the style I'm aiming for in much of my place. You do it vastly better! Will be checking back for ideas.

Nice job.

posted by kelleyk on April 8th 2009 at 3:21pm
view kelleyk's profile

So gorgeous! It has a "retreat" vibe while still being totally NY. Hot.

posted by rc411 on April 8th 2009 at 3:28pm
view rc411's profile

Simply fantastic: modern / zen / funky / comfortable / not cluttered/ organic / approachable / lived in / clean / easy on the eye / fun vibe. I would definitely move in today.

posted by daynaellalulu on April 8th 2009 at 3:34pm
view daynaellalulu's profile

one of the few places on AT I could live in

posted by tyrone t rex on April 8th 2009 at 4:03pm
view tyrone t rex's profile

This is a beautiful space. I may have to steal the string-lights-on-ladder idea.

posted by graefix on April 8th 2009 at 4:17pm
view graefix's profile

I think this is my favorite so far. I’m a huge advocate of small lamps in the kitchen. I am looking at what looks like a tall, slim bookshelf on a pedestal of sorts in your livingroom. Can you tell us more about it?

Good luck in the contest!

posted by Rick Roberts on April 8th 2009 at 4:30pm
view Rick Roberts's profile

beauty ,warmth and function all balanced perfectly .. gorgeous !!!

posted by bigsky on April 8th 2009 at 4:33pm
view bigsky's profile

love, love, love the scale and the other vintage/quirky touches

posted by bmfree on April 8th 2009 at 5:08pm
view bmfree's profile

My Favourite. Old and new looking cool and hip! Love the space.

posted by PNolan on April 8th 2009 at 5:36pm
view PNolan's profile

I would love to perch in this beautiful natural home!, perfect nest for two love birds. Becky from Seattle.

posted by essenzastore on April 8th 2009 at 7:22pm
view essenzastore's profile

hi.... it's kimmers from 'old and new'

thanks for all the amazing feedback!!! makes it worth all the effort!!!

(rick roberts) the tall slim bookshelf is actually an old storage container for metal work so it has a cool patina but it's an easy copy... just have a friend/carpenter make it... 1/2" plywood made into a box that's 5'X8" and put 2 little shelves evenly spaced. I like this type of box floating so there are 3 2X4 pieces of wood attached to the back... just hang on the wall and fill it up!

(zaky oliviah) the sofa is a Room Board from 3 years ago but I removed the back cushions and added some pillows to mix it up.

I agree with all the non color comments... I really have a hard time with color. When add it my eye goes straight to it all day everyday and I have to move it... I will work on it!!! for now I just wear it!!!

cheers, kim

posted by twigs stones on April 8th 2009 at 7:30pm
view twigs stones's profile

Those cherry cabinets are gorgeous!

posted by crabtops on April 8th 2009 at 7:31pm
view crabtops's profile

Love it, Kimberly! :-)

posted by kmeinelt on April 8th 2009 at 7:49pm
view kmeinelt's profile

This is by far my favorite. Thoughtfully edited and tasteful. I love the balance of weathered/Asian/modern and think the color palette is soothing and just right. I would happily live there in a minute. Come finish my place, please.

posted by jacasi on April 8th 2009 at 8:03pm
view jacasi's profile

Easily my favorite in the not-so-small category.

Incredible mix of texture and patina in a modern and hard-surfaced space.

posted by jac7890 on April 8th 2009 at 8:27pm
view jac7890's profile

This is certainly my favorite, it feels so warm and comfortable - just the right amount of detail and texture without being cluttered. Bravissimo!!

posted by billyp on April 8th 2009 at 10:10pm
view billyp's profile

This is also my favorite. Really liking the textures, the soothing colours and repurposed materials .

Good Luck to you in the contest.

posted by peachpie on April 8th 2009 at 10:35pm
view peachpie's profile

two thumbs up. got a great vibe and mix of old and newer, clean and interesting, and color and neutral. you should source more stuff, all of your stuff looks so interesting.
and the photos are great - you can really see spaces rather than just close ups which seem to be popular on home tours. great job and good luck.

posted by Johnp on April 8th 2009 at 10:38pm
view Johnp's profile

Love the textures and colors here.

posted by renata on April 8th 2009 at 11:31pm
view renata's profile

Great space! I can see that you worked long and hard to get your apartment just right!

posted by morjam53 on April 9th 2009 at 5:55am
view morjam53's profile

I think I might just have found my favourite.

posted by Madame Is on April 9th 2009 at 7:11am
view Madame Is's profile

Love the toned-down / weathered look that you've achieved. That hanging scale in the kitchen with the plant is a unique touch. Personally, I wouldn't add the splashes of bold color -- looks fantastic as is. Great sense of style!

posted by s_boston on April 9th 2009 at 8:23am
view s_boston's profile

absolutely booooooooo-tee-full Kimmy!

posted by mzt121 on April 9th 2009 at 9:08am
view mzt121's profile

Love it, Steph!

posted by babybuns on April 9th 2009 at 9:43am
view babybuns's profile

I love the light, openess and warm feeling expressed in this apartment. I wish I lived there.

posted by sbautumn on April 9th 2009 at 10:13am
view sbautumn's profile

Great mix of natural, calming elements into a modern feeling. Love that it's not cluttered or kitschy.

posted by thalyanna on April 9th 2009 at 11:13am
view thalyanna's profile

love it. Where did you get the bedding?

posted by 12Fairwood on April 9th 2009 at 11:13am
view 12Fairwood's profile

Beautiful! Good Luck Kim!

posted by EbonyS on April 9th 2009 at 11:22am
view EbonyS's profile

love your HOME Kim!
Where are Henry and Lulu??? :)
~Beate

posted by bsykes on April 9th 2009 at 12:21pm
view bsykes's profile

Good Luck!!!!

posted by reginar on April 9th 2009 at 1:25pm
view reginar's profile

Great Fun! Good Lucj!

posted by gaetanbenson on April 9th 2009 at 2:59pm
view gaetanbenson's profile

Sorry Kimmie - typing too fast meant Good Luck is isn't some crazy new language

posted by gaetanbenson on April 9th 2009 at 2:59pm
view gaetanbenson's profile

Gorgeous apartment. . .good luck Kimmie!

Hope my battery holds out long enough to vote. . .it's not easy to cast your ballot on this site.

posted by LexLuthor on April 9th 2009 at 3:59pm
view LexLuthor's profile

This place has good bones, but it could use - I don't know what exactly - maybe some antlers. The colors are right for that kind of thing and it seems to cry out for some sort of anatomical display. The unmade bed is a nice homey touch. The light is great.

posted by lauraticonderoga on April 9th 2009 at 8:40pm
view lauraticonderoga's profile

There is good taste and there is delicious taste. (c;

posted by rorirobson on April 9th 2009 at 9:03pm
view rorirobson's profile

rorirobson, this is indeed delicious.

posted by urbangrace on April 10th 2009 at 6:47am
view urbangrace's profile

Talent always rises to the top! Fabulous pictures, simple and elegant. You should be a decorator.

posted by Meinelt2 on April 10th 2009 at 8:34am
view Meinelt2's profile

Squirt, I am not at all surprised. This is definitely elegant and picture perfect but at the same time homey. Luv it.

posted by topper1225 on April 10th 2009 at 9:39am
view topper1225's profile

I am lucky to live close to kim yari and have seen this place with my eyes. I love every detail of this apartment. It is a cool loft but still makes you feel at home even though you have never been there before.

posted by madamt on April 10th 2009 at 10:17am
view madamt's profile

this is gorgeous! i absolutely LOVE the hanging scale with the lil plant on it. it makes me want to go home and move my furniture around...

posted by lizziepeony on April 10th 2009 at 11:43am
view lizziepeony's profile

This is my favorite so far. Where did your hanging lights come from? They are all beautiful.

posted by rkm on April 10th 2009 at 11:53am
view rkm's profile

the curio... the organic... the light... the found objects...
no comparison...
...the zoestramatic...

posted by zowiggle on April 10th 2009 at 12:09pm
view zowiggle's profile

A little dull to my taste - but love the kitchen and the floor plan. I am one who enjoys the stimulation that colors bring about. Some color would of spiced up that fantastic floor plan. lady T

posted by Board Liaison on April 10th 2009 at 12:27pm
view Board Liaison's profile

You've got mad talent Kiimers. Amazing what you do with apartments! I'm lucky to live in your x-apartment. I'll take your hand-me-downs any day. mwah!

posted by modemmex on April 10th 2009 at 1:32pm
view modemmex's profile

Better in person... great space Kim!!!

posted by goldy101 on April 10th 2009 at 2:58pm
view goldy101's profile

Absolutely delicious... completely inspiring. Great use of material (glass, metal, wood, etc), it creates a delightful texture... Which is why I can believe it is even better in person.

posted by Jesse Lu on April 10th 2009 at 7:28pm
view Jesse Lu's profile

I really just want your staircase.. and maybe that coffee table, and some touches from your kitchen, lol!

Very nice :)

posted by missnic on April 11th 2009 at 12:02pm
view missnic's profile

12 fairwood: the bedding is all from EILEEN FISHER.

rkm: the hanging lights I made myself, just some cool wrought iron baskets and edison bulbs all jumbled together... happy you liked them!

thanks, kimmers

posted by twigs stones on April 11th 2009 at 8:36pm
view twigs stones's profile

I think this is my favorite yet. I love your home.

posted by theresaclare on April 15th 2009 at 12:31pm
view theresaclare's profile

Im a big fan of this one

posted by andrea/in/gt on April 16th 2009 at 12:37am
view andrea/in/gt's profile

So beautiful.

posted by bcgannon on April 20th 2009 at 10:24am
view bcgannon's profile

lovely. so you! really like the old/new vibe of this one, definitely my fave!

posted by hagan on April 20th 2009 at 10:58am
view hagan's profile

Sweet apartment!!

posted by kmeinelt on April 20th 2009 at 7:23pm
view kmeinelt's profile

Awesome use of natural colors!!

posted by windyskies2 on April 21st 2009 at 3:06am
view windyskies2's profile

Kim,

you got my Vote!

Good luck to you!!


Darren-

posted by gough on April 22nd 2009 at 11:31am
view gough's profile

Where is the coffee table from?

I am considering building one but hadn't found the right design. When I saw this, I thought it was perfect!

posted by Z Brownie on April 23rd 2009 at 10:00am
view Z Brownie's profile

Kim, Ya got it licked!!! I like Coors Light myself :) Teana

posted by masonsmom on April 28th 2009 at 9:26am
view masonsmom's profile

Good Luck Kimmers and Jari !

Incredible place ! Well done !

daniel håkansson

posted by danski on April 29th 2009 at 7:57am
view danski's profile

Wow, what a good space. Wow, what bland taste. Wow, I hope this place doesn't win. Pier 1 sucks.

posted by CrappyTaste on April 29th 2009 at 8:32am
view CrappyTaste's profile

ROCK ON CHAKA KHAN!!!!!! :)

posted by nugget1 on April 29th 2009 at 2:46pm
view nugget1's profile

Nice place! It looks very cozy :)

posted by rachtastic on April 29th 2009 at 8:45pm
view rachtastic's profile

good luck! i want you to win sooooo bad!

posted by linus22 on April 29th 2009 at 11:03pm
view linus22's profile

Not a bad space or general use of it, but the color and general decoration is a bit bland. Just seems a little too impersonal to me.

posted by buttboy879 on April 30th 2009 at 1:28am
view buttboy879's profile

LOVE IT!

Every little Detail!


Can I buy the 'key holder' from you?

posted by gough on April 30th 2009 at 8:05am
view gough's profile

Kimberly has an absolutely amazing and sophisticated design sensibility which is punctuated by unique elements of surprise.

Awesome space!

posted by jcb88 on April 30th 2009 at 8:53am
view jcb88's profile

Bummer, this was the second best designed space in yesterday's voting between you and the Corset Factory.

Is there a prize for 'almost in the finals'?

posted by Aquaman on April 30th 2009 at 1:27pm
view Aquaman's profile

Aquaman, it just goes to show that impeccable taste does not always win first place!

posted by jvr427 on April 30th 2009 at 2:59pm
view jvr427's profile

There can be only one.

posted by Aquaman on April 30th 2009 at 3:14pm
view Aquaman's profile

My closet is two plant hooks with a long dowel for hanging pants and two large S hooks for hanging hangers flat against the wall instead of shoulder to the wall. Mine is open but you could definitely screen it off with curtains or something. It only comes out 6 inches from the wall. I also store clothes folded and bought a little steamer iron that has a water reservoir that hangs on the wall. If I want to wear something that isn't hanging, I can slap it on a hanger and have it steamed in about 2 minutes. I love my little wall closet and my steamer thingie!

posted by cinco on May 5th 2009 at 4:36pm
view cinco's profile