A 450-Square-Foot Brooklyn Studio Was Furnished for Just $1,900
Sonam Dolker has lived in this 450-square-foot studio apartment for over a year: My home is small studio apartment on the sixth floor. I can’t say it lacks space because every space feels perfectly suited to my needs. I get great light and beautiful views of the Verrazano bridge, and a fire escape for a tiny bit of exterior space.
In the bustle of New York, coming home to this space immediately makes me feel at peace.
I was born in Nepal, raised in Queens, and have lived in Brooklyn through my 20s. The art I’ve collected through the years reflects these places. Some of my favorite pieces: a painting of three women of color tied together by their hair surrounded by fire and water, which I commissioned through my former roommate Mikaela Gonzalez; a small painting of a street on Flatbush that is dear to me, which I saw Medar de la Cruz painting on his Instagram story and immediately asked to purchase; a small painting of a bag with photo albums we never look at, which was painted in Nepal by my best friend Shristi Shrestha; another is an abstract painting by Spencer Alexander, a local muralist and iconic sign maker of businesses in Ditmas Park.
Describe your home’s style in five words or fewer: Balanced, artful, cozy, peaceful.
What is your favorite room and why? I only have one room, because it’s a studio. I’ve divided the space into bedroom, living room, dining area. My favorite place would probably be the dining area, where I have friends sit on the chair overlooking the view of the bridge when I host dinners.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The last thing I purchased was a small desk lamp. I put it on my bookshelf. It makes for great ambient lighting on occasions.
Any advice for creating a home you love? Fill it with art that means something to you. Make sure every space is functional, whether it is a space to rest, work, entertain, read, put on your make up (if you do that), or even just kick off your shoes.
Thanks, Sonam!
This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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