Who Lives Here: Dagny (human being) & Stella (Boston Terrier)
Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Size: 360 square feet

What is your favorite element of your Small & Cool home? The relative abundance of windows. They're all southern exposure, which lets in a ton of natural light and facilitates my plant obsession quite nicely. I have a small jungle consisting mainly of orchids, ferns, and culinary herbs. I grew up on a farm, and caring for the plants is a relaxing routine that makes me feel connected to my own "roots" in a small way.

What was one of the biggest challenges you faced in furnishing your Small Cool home? The limited space combined with my personal commitment to only purchase furniture if I can see myself loving it ten years down the road means I agonize a lot before bringing anything home. Versatility is key since everything has to do double duty: the sofa needed to be able to accommodate a guest (with the pillows pulled aside it's a twin size bed). The desk needed to provide storage but not have a real office-y vibe since my computer is also my entertainment center. Even the sewing table can take on a new identity: I can scoot it out to the living area & pop the leaves up to serve a sit-down dinner for two.