A Teeny 250-Square-Foot Backyard Studio Apartment Is a Dreamy, Plant-Filled Cottage
Name: Haley Rich
Location: Willow Glen — San Jose, California
Size: 250 square feet
Years lived in: 6 months, renting
Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: I searched for over a year to find this little gem and when I did I knew I had to live there. It’s a little in-law studio behind a house and it’s perfect! Right down the street from a cute little downtown area. I can walk to Barre3, to dinner, to get my nails done. It’s all right there! It’s a small space but it’s kept me from hoarding things I don’t need. I periodically clean out my closet to get rid of clothes and things I don’t use or don’t need anymore. When you live in a small space you can’t have things just to have things.
Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Cozy California mid-century cottage
What is your favorite room and why? My main room/bedroom is my favorite room because, well, I don’t have a lot of options but also because there really is a lot to it. I was able to fit my prized mid-century dresser that has moved to two homes now and a bed and still have room to move around. I make the most of the space but don’t try to do too much with it. I didn’t plan on entertaining too much so I just made it the best bedroom I could. My favorite part is when the weather is really nice, I can open the French doors and let all the fresh air in.
If you could magically change something about your home, what would it be? I would of course make it larger if I could, but just a tad. I like the coziness but having an actual living room would be ideal.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Surprise, surprise the last things I bought were plants (my fourth monstera)… from this cute nursery back home in Chico. I can’t resist a good plant and will always make room for a new one. To act as a pot I went to Target and got this basket and it works out perfectly.
Which fictional character would be most at home in your place? I could imagine Alice, from “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” enjoying my piece of wonderland. Falling asleep under all the plants, listening to all the birds outside. I think she would fit right in.
Any advice for creating a home you love? I feel like we are all influenced by trends but what makes a home feel like home has to come from you. Look for things you love: art, knick-knacks, furniture… this is what makes a home yours and gives it your personality and creates joy form your memories every time you come home or invite new people in. If you see that painting while traveling through Spain (and it’s in your price range), get it! It will live on in your home and bring memories of your trip for years to come.