“My home is my safe haven, and gives me constant inspiration,” explains New York City-based designer Alvin Wayne. “I do all of my design work from home, so it’s essential to be surrounded by all things that inspire me and that I love.”

Home is this 800-square-foot apartment located in a high-rise apartment that was basically a bright box with beautiful views… and boring white walls, as you can see his video tour below. His goal with the apartment’s design was to warm up the cold, modern space, and he did so with lots of natural textures, as well as some renter-friendly wall coverings.

Though Alvin has only lived in this rental apartment for eight months, this is actually the first building he moved to when he first moved to New York City. “So this building has always felt like home to me,” admits Alvin. “I found it on a New York City-based apartment app called StreetEasy.  I love the views my apartment has and it’s basically on the Queensboro bridge so nothing will ever obstruct my view!” he explains.

“Another thing that I love about this building is the rooftop pool overlooking the Manhattan skyline, the state-of-the-art gym with rock climbing wall, and my building has parking, which is great because I drive.” And although there are two TV sets in his home, screens aren’t what grab his attention the most. “I rarely watch TV now,” he admits. “I find myself listening to music and enjoying the view.”

My Style: I would describe my style as mid-century modern, masculine, natural, and cozy.

Inspiration: My inspiration comes from music, architecture, fashion, and food. My design inspirations are Kelly Wearstler and Frank Lloyd Wright. 

Favorite Element: My favorite element would have to be the view. The view is the perfect backdrop for the design of my home. Also the “Kiss Me Karl” neon sign in the foyer is my absolute favorite and unexpected moment. It was a former window display prop from his last collection before passing.

Biggest Challenge: The biggest challenge was transforming the space from a “white box.”

Proudest DIY: The proudest DIY moment would have to be the installation of the removable wallpaper in the living room. Everyone thinks it’s real concrete but surprise… it’s removable wallpaper.

Biggest Indulgence: My biggest indulgence was this Daniele Fortuna bust form; it was $700 but it brings me joy daily, and it’ll be worth more one day.

Is there something unique about your home or the way you use it? I created a work-from-home office in my bedroom nook facing the window. And I know a lot of people say you shouldn’t work from your bedroom but this is honestly the best use of space in my New York apartment.

What are your favorite products you have bought for your home and why? I am a candle snob. My favorite candle is Tom Ford F**king Fabulous… I mean the name itself is fabulous!

Please describe any helpful, inspiring, brilliant, or just plain useful small space maximizing and/or organizing tips you have: Make your furniture perform double duty; my media consoles hide all the TV accoutrements and also provide additional storage for glassware, and houses the bar on top. My desk is actually a console table that I use as my desk. 

What’s your absolute best home secret or decorating advice? As a renter, never be afraid to switch out light fixtures (just save the old ones). Also, peel and stick wallpaper is your best friend.

• Bedroom paint  — “Broadway” in a matte finish, Behr

Wallpaper  — ​Removable concrete wallpaper from wall26

• Forte channeled sofa —  CB2
• Alcide coffee table  — CB2
• Pictograph  sideboard — West Elm
• Ball pillow — Etsy
• Throw — Dyphor
• Stature chair — CB2

• Blox dining table — CB2
• Jeanneret chairs  — France and Son
• Mirror — Vintage
• Art — Art by RAW

• Peg counter stool — CB2
• Daniele Fortuna bust  — return on art
• Sugar canister — West Elm

• Nadi cane bed — CB2
• Pentagrid bedding — CB2
• Fornasetti  pillow — Bergdorf Goodman
• Sphere planter  — Crate&Barrel
• Rug — Safavieh

• Whirling wallpaper  — CB2
• Specchio mirror — CB2
• Black marble vase — CB2

Thanks Alvin!

This house tour’s responses were edited for length and clarity.

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