Emily’s Small & Cozy Space

published Jan 22, 2015

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Name: Emily
Location: Kettering, Ohio

I live in a one bedroom in building with four apartments, an older building on the outskirts of an expensive area in the Dayton, Ohio area. It’s a quiet and nice area, within walking distance of Dorothy Lane Market, a classy 24/7 grocery, a Starbucks and other small shops. Its close proximity to my work, church and friends enticed me, and the affordable rent sold me.

(Image credit: Submitted by Emily)

I have a tight budget and have furnished my home with thrifted treasures, select hand-me-downs and Ikea finds. I have a degree in interior design and am a freelance photographer and stylist. I work as an interior specialist at Arhaus Furniture and am constantly inspired by the visuals there.

I am not able to paint, so I embraced the ivory walls; less work for me in the long run.

I wanted my space to have a clean, vintage feel- with a touch of the feminine. I choose Ikea lace panels for all the windows (with the exception of the one in the kitchen, I found that one at a thrift store!) to let as much light in. I am a musician and a world traveler, so those things are highlighted as well. I have a hard time just choosing one style- but I feel like my pieces all work together in an eclectic fashion.

(Image credit: Submitted by Emily)

I have embraced the idea that I am living in a small space, having a desk I can multipurpose into a table if I have friends for dinner instead of a dining set. My little kitchen, with its pretty window over the sink is one of my favorite spots. I use my twinkle lights in there constantly, rarely turning on the overhead light. To have my stove and refrigerator on the same wall I had to sacrifice some of my lower cabinets, so I have my little butcher block cart from Ikea for extra storage and counter space. I keep my silverware in vintage glasses on the top since I also lost a few drawers as well. The plan is for my dad, who is an amazing carpenter, to build me a few open shelves above the cart to display my glassware collections.

(Image credit: Submitted by Emily)

I fell in love with all the storage in the apartment, a built in in the dining area, a large line closet and huge coat closet… and the prize, TWO closets in the bedroom. I have a lot of clothes and shoes, so that pretty much was a deal maker.

Thanks, Emily!

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