A 450-Square-Foot Munich Apartment Has the Dreamiest Teeny Balcony

Name: Katharina Schifer
Location: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
Type of home: Apartment
Size: 450 square feet
Years lived in: 3 years, owned

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: I fulfilled my dream of owning a home as a single woman. I worked from finishing school until the day the papers were signed to give my self this security for retirement and to protect myself from rising rent costs.

You do not always need a partner — you can make it on your own as a woman. And if I can do it, every woman can.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or fewer: Luxury minimalism, antiques, and mid-century modern decor.

Some artwork is bought and modern, some is DIY, and some are heirlooms.

What is your favorite room and why? The living room, I would say. Here, life happens — we end up in my apartment often late at night as friends, although it is the smallest home in our circle.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The last thing I bought is a vintage candle holder by Stoff Nagel. It’s my pride and joy. Perfect as a centerpiece for dinner parties. You can make them elegant even in a flat this small.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Don’t go for the instant gratification of ordering a room you have seen somewhere piece by piece, all identical to that picture. Take the years to let the home fill itself step by step. It will feel more authentic, in my opinion.

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