Madeleine’s “Tree House Apartment”

Name: Madeleine
Location: Elizabeth — Charlotte, North Carolina

I live in the guesthouse of a house in Charlotte, North Carolina. The space is only 423 square feet – but it’s a big 423 square feet. Curated with items that I’ve collected over the years – my tiny one bedroom apartment puts a giant proud mama type of grin on my face.

I exclaimed “YES!”, right when I walked through the front door – and thank the stars in the sky that I saw the Craigslist posting three minutes after it had been posted. “Uh..I literally just pressed publish,” said my soon-to-be landlord when I asked if I could come see the place.

Considered the “tree house apartment” by many, the miniature home was built by the couple who lives in the apartment’s bigger version right next door. They lived in the apartment, along with their two kids, for 8 months during the construction of their home. You may be thinking: “4 people in 423 square feet? That’s crazy!” Well apparently my landlords are masters of maximizing space and so the layout of the apartment is just oh so perfect. Boasting a bright living room with the prettiest hardwood floors, a perfectly sized kitchen (that has a dishwasher!!), an amazing bedroom (which feels like you live in the trees), the cutest tiled bathroom, and a pretty sweet loft – it’s the perfect place for me: Madeleine, party of one.

The apartment sits on one of the prettiest streets in the city. The neighborhood has ancient trees lining the sidewalks and manicured gardens in every direction. Every time I take a walk I take a SnapChat — which commonly includes the caption “Bungalow Envy.”

My Mom and Dad built their dream home from the ground up in San Diego, California when was in 5th grade. I always admired the time and precision they put into every little detail.

My childhood home, although not always perfectly organized (that’s hard with 6 people and more animals than fingers to count on!), always felt like the perfect place to be. From the bright colored fabric and endless amount of pillows to the perfectly organized yard – my love for decorating came from my parents. And although our tastes differ (my parents have very traditional taste) the similarities in our spaces can easily be recognized. Whenever my mom visits she always says, “You’ve got the eye of your dad and my love for color.” Which to me, is the biggest compliment.

My favorite things are the natural light, the cutest doorknobs (is that weird?) and the light fixtures.

Don’t buy things just because your favorite blogger has it in their home. Pin the picture as inspiration, then look on Craigslist, at flea markets, and on the side of the road (in wealthy neighborhoods 😉 for your take on that picture. I’ve found that doing that makes me feel more proud and accomplished…also, I usually end up liking my version a lot better!

Thanks, Madeleine!

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