A 500-Square-Foot NYC Studio’s Minimal Style Makes It a Serene Retreat to Recharge

Name: Logan Rizzo
Location: Upper East Side — New York City, New York
Type of home: Apartment
Size: 500 square feet
Years lived in: 14 months, renting

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: My homes have always been a retreat from the world. A cozy and serene place for me to be in quiet and simple beauty to recharge. I actually signed the lease completely sight unseen. I saw a picture of the expansive windows facing the East River and I was sold. And I have no buyers remorse! The golden hour sunsets are breathtaking, and I’ve admittedly never closed the blinds, haha. I fall asleep gazing at the stars and wake up with the sun — it’s a dream come true. It’s also steps away from Central Park and the Conservatory Gardens, my favorite gems of the city.

Being a studio, or junior one-bedroom as a friend lovingly called it, haha, I wanted to make the most of the space without it feeling cluttered. I added the fireplace to anchor the living area, and installed a standing desk out of view from the bed. For final touches, dried and fresh flowers are trimmed throughout, and there’s no shortage of blankets and soft pillows.

I definitely treasure my down time to think and regroup. With the city being so hustle and bustle, it’s nice to have a calm color palette and minimal design that’s still inviting and welcoming to come home to.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Bright, serene, cozy, minimalist retreat

What is your favorite room and why? Well, there’s really only two rooms counting the bathroom! I would say my favorite corner is actually right next to the window on the right side of my bed. I have my yoga mat tucked away there, and I’ll pull out my red light lamp for a couple salutations each morning. I light a candle, read an excerpt from one of my spiritual hippie books, and intuitively stretch while overlooking the East River — it’s a whole vibe, and it sets me up for the whole day.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Fresh flowers! I’m a sucker for a classic bouquet.

And the Joovv Solo red light lamp is also a new addition. I bought it for the #health benefits, haha, but it also has an ambient light mode that’s pretty great too.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Create the space your soul needs.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
Share Your Style: House Tour & House Call Submission Form