Roommates Fill a Rental With Plants AND Plant Prints
Name: Erin van den Brink and roommate
Location: Calgary — Alberta, Canada
Size: 1000 square feet
Years lived in: 6 months, renting
My roommate, Kelly, and I live in this lovely 1,000 square-foot apartment. I found it in June of 2018 and instantly fell in love with it, not only for its location but for the amount of storage it offered. Yes, this top floor walk-up has a walk-in closet and after years of me planning my move to Calgary this apartment finally makes it feel like home.
Nestled in the cute and quant neighbourhood of Sunnyside, I wanted to play off my interior with the neighbouring character homes and pay homage to the original look and feel of Sunnyside. I love the look and story behind vintage pieces; I try to combine inherited pieces with found pieces to create a fun story. Throughout my apartment you will see the mix of old and new; thrifted blue velvet wingback chairs with a new MCM gray couch. I enjoy the juxtaposition of mixing different elements together to create an eclectic space that is inviting to all guests.
Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: MCM Eclectic Fresh Trendy Vintage
What is your favorite room and why? One of my favourite rooms is my bedroom. I wanted to create a clean space that was relaxing, free from any distractions (ie. a TV) and somewhere I could really unwind after a long day. Traditionally for me I think of white when I think “clean;” I played off this vision and created a neutral bedroom full of texture, with a touch of bohemian vibes. My vision started with an old window I had found; I hung this above my bed as a makeshift head board. My dream really came to life when I was able to find my dream chair: a vintage wicker peacock chair. And right then, my favorite corner of my apartment was born. I played off the bohemian feel by adding textured throws, macramé wall hangings, and woven baskets from Africa.
If you could magically change something about your home, what would it be? If I could magically change anything I would make the bathroom bigger. Two girls and one bathroom has its challenges! Double sinks, more space, and more vanity drawers.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The most recent thing I found was my vintage peacock wicker chair. This was found by the lovely Ellen of prairie bazaar, a local vintage buyer. (My chair.)
Which fictional character would be most at home in your place? Shoshanna Shapiro from Girls. I feel like my space is whimsical and feminine enough that she would be right at home.
Any advice for creating a home you love? If you find something that is unique, save it and create a space around it. Also if you like something and it’s not cohesive with a certain “look,” throw that thought out the window. Create a space with things you love and your vision would come to life.