A Student’s 250-Square-Foot Studio Feels Larger Than It Is

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published Nov 2, 2018

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Even though the space is small (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

Name: Katie Carnett and kitties: Tokyo and Suki
Location: Bay Ho neighborhood — San Diego, California
Size: 250 square feet
Years lived in: 1 year, renting

This charming little studio was the first place I looked at when hunting for an apartment and as luck had it, I signed my lease that same day. The studio is attached to a private residence with a shared yard that looks out on a view of a canyon. It is so quiet, private, and peaceful. When I first saw the place, the previous tenant was still living there, and the place was a mess. However, as a design student, I was able to see past the boxes and clutter and see all the potential the space had.

The natural light makes the space feel so much bigger (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

I have always fantasized about living in a small space, and moving into the studio definitely made that a reality for me. Keeping only the essentials, I really pared down my possessions and kept only what I used on a weekly basis and some personal touches to make the space feel like home. Underbed bins and vertical storage have been a godsend! I have lots of supplies that I use regularly for school, and since I am an avid knitter, tons of yarn and knitting supplies to store as well… don’t even get me started on my books!

As a full time design student (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

My dad has done fine woodworking for over thirty years, and I am lucky enough to have a few of his pieces… the cabinet that serves as my nightstand, the side table next to the sofa, and the tall dressing stand with mirror. I also love having my art collection on display which includes eclectic prints, original works, vintage finds, and impressionist paintings done by my grandmother. The dream catchers hanging on the wall are made by me.

The kitties are what make my house a home! (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

Also, my place would not be home without my two fur babies, Tokyo and Suki.

The tiny kitchen was so much more functional once I added the IKEA kitchen cart for additional workspace. (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

What is your favorite room and why? Well technically my place is all one room, but my favorite zone is the living area with my sofa, coffee table, and seating. It’s the perfect place to curl up and knit, have my coffee and breakfast, or entertain friends. It’s amazing how many people can comfortably fit in my place!

The tiny bathroom is the biggest challenge of living in this small space. (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

If you could magically change something about your home, what would it be? I would definitely want a larger shower… the one that I have is a round corner fixture with a sliding door… that I’m pretty sure was made for an RV. And while I’m having the bathroom spruced up… a better space to keep the litter box for the kitties would be great… right now it’s contained in a cabinet so it’s out of site, but keeping the litter from getting tracked all over is a constant chore.

Displaying my vintage dishware makes the space feel so much more special. (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

Any advice for creating a home you love? Get rid of the clutter, keep the essentials, and display things that make you happy.

I am so lucky to have a shared back yard space that opens up to beautiful views of the canyon. Watching the sunset back here is one of my favorite things to do. (Image credit: Katie Carnett)

Thanks, Katie!

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