This Cute Studio Above a Garage Is How to Do A Lot With a Little

published Mar 7, 2019

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Name: Sarah Choate and a spooky black cat named Jackson Dale
Location: Wilmore, Kentucky
Size: 400-500 square feet
Years lived in: 7 months, renting

This is the first place I’ve lived in totally on my own and so far, I really love the peacefulness that comes with living alone. I’m 24 and work as the marketing coordinator for a faith-based nonprofit that does international community development work. My office is a 10-minute walk from my house, which means I regularly pop-in during my lunch hour to grab a bite and snuggle with my cat, Jackson (any homebody’s dream). Jackson keeps me company. He’s disarmingly friendly; he likes belly rubs, morning cuddles, and scratching my new(ish) couch.

In such a small space, storage is limited. Keeping books in the kitchen is a necessity. (Image credit: Sarah Choate)

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Thrifty mid-century modern.

My favorite part of this little studio is the living room area. It’s small, but cozy. Lots of natural light and my favorite rug, knick-knacks from artist friends, and my favorite painting live in this room. (Image credit: Sarah Choate)

What is your favorite room and why? I love the living room area. When I’m home, this is where I spend most of my time, whether I’m cuddling with my cat, binge-watching YouTube videos, or reading and relaxing. I especially love the art I’ve selected for my living room; it’s a mix of prints by my favorite artists and original pieces my friends have created.

Square footage may be limited, but there’s no shortage of cabinet space. (Image credit: Sarah Choate)

(Image credit: Sarah Choate)

If you could magically change something about your home, what would it be? The kitchen cabinets, countertops, and flooring. They’re a bit dated and if I weren’t renting, I’d definitely put in the effort to update these elements.

Jackson Dale in his natural habitat. (Image credit: Sarah Choate)

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The living room rug! I saw it at T.J. Maxx and couldn’t resist.

When I moved in, I painted most of the walls white but opted to leave the bedroom this fun green color to create a darker, more relaxing environment. My brass bed frame is a vintage find—it has a lot of character (read: dents and scratches), but I love the look of it. (Image credit: Sarah Choate)

I love mid-century modern furniture and this dresser was another vintage find. The speakers belonged to my parents in the ’90s. They had them in their very first apartment. They still look (and sound) amazing. (Image credit: Sarah Choate)

Any advice for creating a home you love? Use your home to express yourself. Choose items that mean something to you or that you love looking at. Having a home that reminds me of who I am and of the people I love makes my space feel uniquely mine and so peaceful.

Thanks, Sarah!

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