Thanks to 50+ Plants, This 400-Square-Foot Studio Apartment Is Like a Serene Urban Greenhouse
Name: Dolores Eparragoza and cat
Location: Mission Hills — San Diego, California
Type of home: Studio Apartment
Size: 400 square feet
Years lived in: 6 months, renting
Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Serene urban greenhouse
Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: I am a 28-year-old travel, wellness, and houseplant-obsessed young professional. My studio is my tiny retreat from the real world. Since it is small, I have to be mindful of the items I put in it. I have a large sofa sectional, a queen-sized bed, desk, two coffee tables, and two bedside tables. The way I make my space feel cozy is by adding plants anywhere and everywhere I can. I am currently into vertical gardens and put as many plants as I can on the walls. I am a huge proponent of experiences over things. My houseplants serve as more than decor. They are a form of self care and meditation; looking after my 50ish plants is a reminder to take care of myself.
What is your favorite room and why? Bathroom. It’s the only [actual] room in the apartment and it’s my sanctuary within my sanctuary. There are so many plants in there it gives it a cenote-spa like atmosphere. I love taking baths and can sit in the tub for hours reading, meditating, and sometimes watching Netflix. I bought a mini projector just to be able to watch movies from the tub.
Any advice for creating a home you love? Fill your space with items that make you look forward to going home, that remind you of joyous occasions. The outside world can sometimes feel suffocating; your home should be where you go to exhale and recharge.
This submission’s responses have been edited for length and clarity.