“This experience ignited a desire within me to find a space I could renovate to showcase my personality and style — a place I could truly call my own, free from limitations,” Kyra explains. 

For the next three years, she searched high and low for a home to buy, which needed to check a specific box: “Is this place ugly enough for me to make beautiful?” was the one question she and her real estate agent asked during every tour. In 2024, she found a one-bedroom, 800-square-foot fixer-upper in Queens, New York City. Kyra describes the initial space as “a cramped apartment with chipped walls, outdated appliances, tiny broken-down kitchen, broken and old light fixtures, and a musty odor lingering in the air.” 

Even though her family saw the home as “a space that needed a lot of work,” Kyra fell in love with the potential in the small kitchen and pre-war bathroom. She knew that she could transform it into a beautiful home. Despite several challenges along the way, Kyra finished remodeling the apartment in just a month and a half. 

Kyra describes her post-renovation apartment as “an NYC apartment with a transitional and minimalist style highlighting soft, neutral tones, comfortable furniture, and plenty of natural light. The newly open space was thoughtfully arranged to create a serene flow. Textured and neutral textiles enhance the warmth, making it feel like a calming oasis. A true retreat from the bustling city outside.” 

• Wall Art and Bench — HomeGoods 
• Pillows — Target 
• Floral Pattern with Tassel — Target
• Chenille / Neutral — Target
• Blanket — Target 

• Aroosh Sofa — Wayfair
• Marlina Coffee Table — Wayfair 
• Avichai Console Table — Wayfair
• Arvell Woven Rug — Wayfair
• Wall Art — Wayfair
• Wall Sconces — Amazon

• Khamyla Table — Wayfair
• Chairs — Wayfair (a gift) 
• Table Vase — HomeGoods 

Thanks, Kyra!

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

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