A Small LA Studio Went from “Sparse, Possibly Haunted” to “Playful, Colorful Oasis”

published Nov 25, 2024

A Small LA Studio Went from “Sparse, Possibly Haunted” to “Playful, Colorful Oasis”

published Nov 25, 2024
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Bedrooms
Square feet

485

Sq ft

485

“Last year I made the decision to move to Los Angeles after having lived in New York City for almost my entire adult life,” begins Greg Mania, a writer, comedian, and one of my favorite AT house tour participants of all time. “I didn’t know exactly what I was looking for, just somewhere affordable and free from black mold — preferably kept down to a shout (a luxury for a New Yorker!). My best friend, Tara, lived in LA for many years, so she helped me peruse places online, until eventually she stumbled on this one. We both instantly fell in love with it.”

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Credit: Leela Cyd

“What stood out to me the most is the building’s history — it’s almost 100 years old, right in the heart of Hollywood,” Greg continues. “The Black Dahlia briefly stayed here, as did Walt Disney, among other icons and artists because of its proximity to the studios. Another part of its charm is that it’s a true Hollywood building disguised as a Brooklyn tenement; if it weren’t for the pair of palm trees out front, you’d think this building was in Crown Heights.” 

Credit: Leela Cyd

Greg describes his 485-square-foot studio apartment before he moved in as “sparse, possibly haunted.” But he says it was also a “total dream,” featuring charming elements like “exposed brick, stunning windows that swing open, the original built-in 1920s vanity. It’s the complete opposite from my last apartment, which many of you may remember from my last tour, and which was only a few years old; it was sleek, modern. I love that I live in a place with so much rich history, and how it has textured my personal aesthetic and design choices.”

Credit: Leela Cyd

While it’s true this LA apartment is different than the last place we toured, it’s also got plenty of similarities, too, like plenty of bold colors, fun art, and, of course, books (including his own debut memoir, Born to Be Public.) It’s been a year since Greg has moved into this new home, and he describes it perfectly: “A playful, colorful oasis that blends vintage glamor with a rebellious edge.” 

Resources

Credit: Leela Cyd

LIVING ROOM

Credit: Leela Cyd

DINING ROOM

  • Table and Chairs — Homary
  • “Sailor Moon” Neon Sign — Etsy
Credit: Leela Cyd

KITCHEN

  • Toaster — Buydeem
  • Microwave — Best Buy
  • Mason Utensil Jar — Amazon
  • Coffee Canister — Etsy
  • Vintage Kettle — Etsy
  • Diner Menus — Ebay
Credit: Leela Cyd

BEDROOM

Credit: Leela Cyd

ART

Thanks, Greg!

This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.