You’ll Swoon Over This Small DC Rowhouse’s Exposed Brick & Beams

Name: Sarah Lyon and her roommate Carrie
Location: Dupont Circle — Washington, DC
Size: 800 square feet
Years lived in: Almost a year

My roommate, Carrie, and I found our place on Craigslist after doing an extensive search of rowhouse apartments in DC. We were about ready to give up when we found what was truly a hidden gem—a place that was affordable, had equal-sized bedrooms and two bathrooms, and even came with a roof deck. We snagged it right away! Carrie loves gardening and has made the roof deck into an absolutely beautiful space filled with festive outdoor furniture and plants. I absolutely love interior design and have really enjoyed working around the home’s unique features and challenges to create a space that I love. It’s nice to live right downtown but to be in a space that has a more old-fashioned, homey feel than you’ll often find in a big city.

What is your favorite room and why? I love my bedroom. When I told my roommate I would be willing to live in the loft, I was excited to settle into a unique space, but I was also a little nervous that it would feel too cave-like up there. However, having lived in our apartment for almost a year, I can honestly say that every day I love the room I chose! The exposed brick and exposed beams make me swoon, and the little sitting area outside of my bedroom has been fun to lounge in and decorate.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Oh my goodness, I’m ALWAYS scouting for new treasures to bring home… my poor roommate must be baffled by all of my Craigslisting! I most recently scored an amazing pair of cane chairs on Craigslist for only $15 each. I can’t decide if I want to keep them as they are or make them over a bit, but they were such a steal that I knew I had to have them either way. I love cane furniture, so even though I had to travel a bit to pick these up, I was so excited to add them to my space—and I’ve already gotten a ton of compliments!

We lucked out when we found a unit with two floors, which is perfect for roommates. Our bedrooms are on different levels and we each have our own bathroom, too! I was drawn to the lofted room because of my love for exposed brick and unique architectural details.

Like most of the furniture I own, this fluffy chair was another Craigslist find. I use it all the time to set out outfits, and it’s also really comfortable.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Eclectic yet classic; whimsical, cozy

The little sitting area outside of my bedroom (which leads to our roof deck) has been one of my favorite decorating projects to date. I’m not traditionally drawn to orange furniture, but I loved the cane detailing on this loveseat and had to have it!

My gold trunk doubles as a coffee table AND a great storage bin—it holds a ton!

Any advice for creating a home you love? Listen to your gut—look to trends for inspiration, but ultimately buy things YOU like, because you’re the one who will be spending time in the space every day. Keep things clean and tidy—an organized home does wonders for the soul! Don’t forget to take advantage of whatever stage of life you’re currently in and let your home reflect that.

Thanks, Sarah Lyon!

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