A 450-Square-Foot Studio Got a Huge Upgrade Thanks to a Smart Loft Bedroom Addition

Name: Hannah Bujnevicie and 2-year-old Malinois mix, Piper
Location: Silver Lake — Los Angeles, California
Type of home: Apartment
Size: 450 square feet
Years lived in: 8 months, renting

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: My space isn’t new to Apartment Therapy as I was featured back in January. However, it has undergone a huge change since then with the addition of a loft bedroom! My Malinois mix, Piper, and I share the 450-square-foot studio in Silverlake, Los Angeles.

The building is a beautiful 1920s vintage space and sits perched up with an amazing view of DTLA. Thanks to all the natural light, the high ceilings, and how everything is laid out, my apartment feels much bigger than it is! With my new loft bedroom, it feels even more distinctive.

When looking for a place to live by myself for the first time, I felt suited for living in a studio apartment as I am a wannabe Tiny Houser. I fell in love with this bright apartment, and my decor and the construction of the loft space has had the most positive impact for me. This apartment reflects me in many ways as I try to live a minimalist lifestyle. When in a small living space, you have no other option, as it’s essential to implement a few mindful habits into your routine to preserve the look and functionality of your small space.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Modern Bohemian, Eclectic, and Clean with lots of greenery

What is your favorite room and why? I’m quite proud of the loft area I created that helped make use of the high ceilings. Thanks to a great landlord, I was able to create a loft space that I use as my bedroom and additional storage. I wanted the space to look as though it has always been there, and I feel like I’ve achieved that with exposed beams and a clean look.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Much of my furniture consists of FB marketplace finds that I’ve done some DIY work to improve. My dining table and chairs are West Elm, but I bought them all for $100 in poor condition. I reupholstered the chairs with a fun Rifle Paper Co. print and refinished the table.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Take your time! You immediately want to fill the space, but it takes time to figure out what works in your new home. Especially in small living spaces, every square inch needs to be thought out. I love interior design, so I find myself swapping out furniture and decor every now and again.

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

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