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Apartment Therapy's Small/Cool Contest

Helena's 550-Square-Foot Studio in New York

Apartment Therapy's Small/Cool Contest

Helena's 550-Square-Foot Studio in New York

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Home Type

Studio Apartment

Location

New York, New York

Style

Colorful

Eclectic

Maximalist

Bedrooms

0

Square feet

550

Sq ft

550

Name: Helena Mestenhauser

Years lived in: Less than 1 year, owned

Household: No one

Have any design professionals worked on this space? I am a props fabricator and designer for theater and film.

Why is your home the smallest, coolest space?

In my New York City studio apartment I wanted to create an inviting, colorful environment to come home to and to host in. I built many custom furniture pieces including the Murphy bed, a large folding table for my weekly D&D game, and a kitchen banquette seating to create lots of space for guests. I used varied textures and colorful geometric shapes for a cozy, welcoming vibe in my maximalist space.

How does your home reflect you?

Since I work in theater and film, my life is full of props from past productions, vintage and antique items I’ve found, and custom art pieces made by myself and many of my talented friends. The result is an eclectic home where everything has a story, from the chandelier in the main room to the knickknacks on the shelves. My goal is to be surrounded by a vibrant, fun space when I come home at night.

Connect with Helena

Instagram: @helenanutshell