“I have a variety of interests, and I love collecting physical things like books and vinyl records, so figuring out how to find a balance of all of those that feels authentic without being cluttered in a smaller space has been a challenge that I’ve enjoyed undertaking.”

“Despite valuing the ethos and aesthetics of minimalism, I’m a collector and a lover of physical things at heart,” Steven admits. “I think that provides an interesting tension for how I go about designing my spaces. I’ve focused a lot on how to organize my things in a way that puts them on display without feeling cluttered or excessive, and have gotten a lot of inspiration from different small-space Instagram accounts and YouTube channels.”

“I think my guiding design principle is to allow any/all objects or styles that I like into my space, and subsequently create a context for them that feels comfortable and restrained. The color palette I’ve employed involves a lot of blacks, whites, and other neutrals, and then my possessions provide the color and character that make it interesting. I also have a lot of Chicago-related things that make me feel at home in the city I love. Essentially, my advice is to bring in anything that brings you joy, and find a way to make it all work together!”

• Shoe storage — IKEA

• Tizio Lamp — Lightology (a local lighting store)
• Couch, record shelves, storage/display units, and rug) — IKEA
• Lift-top coffee table — Amazon
• Accessories — Etsy and different shops around Chicago
• Samsung Frame TV
• Console table — Amazon

• Standing desk frame — Amazon
• Desktop — IKEA
• Desk chair — Office Depot

• VARMBLIXT mirror/light from IKEA
• Bed and bookshelves, with add-on cabinet doors — IKEA
• Nightstand — Gehry Twist Cube from Design Within Reach

Thanks, Steven!

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

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