A Bright Philadelphia Rental Is Filled with an Incredibly Enviable Art and Furniture Collection
Name: Kelly Smith, Jason Stephen Levin, and dog, Hudson
Location: Northern Liberties — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Type of home: Apartment
Size: 1600 square feet
Years lived in: 2 years, renting
Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: I’m a photographer and art director, and Jason (my boyfriend) is an attorney, artist, and art collector. We’ve lived in this apartment for about two years with our dog, Hudson.
This is the first place either of us has lived in without roommates, so we’ve had a lot of fun finding the perfect pieces to bring the space to life. It’s a mix of mid-century furniture, handmade items from contemporary makers, Jason’s art collection, and some pretty good plants.
Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Playful, eclectic, mid-century, bright, intentional
What is your favorite room and why? Our main, open-concept living room, dining room, and kitchen area. It’s bright and airy with a great view of the city, and it’s where we spend most of our time. The space as a whole showcases 14 paintings from various artists and some of our more impressive plants.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? This mug from ceramicist Molly Bernstein. Jason found her work through a local plant shop, and it’s quickly become my favorite for morning coffee. It just makes me happy to drink out of it and carry it around.
Any advice for creating a home you love?
Jason: Don’t feel the need to give into trends or subscribe to a particular genre. Above all else, buy what you like/love. And, if possible, always try to develop a relationship with those you’re buying from.
Kelly: Buy with intention. Make sure the piece you’re choosing is really the piece you want, and don’t be afraid of an empty space if you haven’t found the right thing yet. It’s better to take your time so you can feel like you nailed it than to settle.
This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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