A 422-Square-Foot Studio Uses Plants to Designate Different Areas

Name: Peter Goulbourne
Location: Denver, Colorado
Type of home: Apartment
Size: 422 square feet
Years lived in: 1 year, renting

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: I moved into this studio apartment with the intention of living a minimal lifestyle. This was my first time furnishing a home from scratch, which I very much enjoyed as I discovered what design styles really called to me. I also discovered my love for plants, which has now become a passion and central pieces to the home. I work from home as an IT consultant and wanted a space that felt inviting, productive, and represented how I felt as a person.

I consider myself to be a minimalist and have been intentional in what I indulge in. When it comes to my home, the plants are my point of indulgence as they really brighten up the space along with their other benefits. I also enjoy neutral colors with subtle accents and I believe it’s captured well in the home.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Modern, Scandinavian, and minimal.

What is your favorite room and why? As the space is essentially one room, it is all my favorite. However, I would say the separation of the space by either rugs, plants, or furniture has allowed the studio to feel more sectioned off. As as result, the flow of the place makes it feel much more like a home with different “rooms” that invite you in.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The last thing that I bought was a wooden crate from Michaels for $9.99. It is being used as a bedside plant stand!

Any advice for creating a home you love? My advice for creating a home you love is to do research, see what other people have created, and get inspired. Once you see styles you like, start with the central piece for that room or space, whether that is a bed, couch or desk. Once you have that central piece in place, slowly design your other pieces around it. Lastly, don’t be afraid to try something and return it if it doesn’t fit the aesthetic, and never buy all your items for a room or space at once! Your needs or budget for the space may change and so may your taste. Take your time and have fun with it. Trust the process. P.S. When possible, involve patient friends or family with your design ideas as they may be able to offer valuable input or offer a different point of view.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

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