A Small Studio Is a Minimal, Chic Retreat

Name: Chelsey Brown
Location: New York
Size: 450 square feet
Years lived in: 2 weeks, renting

I moved into this 450-square-foot studio exactly two weeks ago. I wanted to create a retreat for myself as I am living there alone and wanted to come home to something homey, chic, and glamorous. The apartment was dark, bland, and boring before I moved in. The last person who lived there had virtually no furniture or interior style in the space—it was pretty depressing!

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Chic-meets-modern in this studio apartment.

What is your favorite room and why? I’m not sure how to answer that as it’s all one room! But, I would have to say that the living area is my favorite spot. My sofa is to-die-for and I love how intimate and cozy the space feels. I also made sure to incorporate a lot of luxe fabrics within the space to create a homey, glam feel.

If you could magically change something about your home, what would it be? More closet space! I had to get creative with storage—from hiding items behind my curtains to storing artwork behind my leaning mirror, I pulled out all the tricks! You have to utilize almost every piece of furniture and object in your apartment when living in such a small space.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The neon sign above my TV. Everyone compliments me when they walk into my home!

Any advice for creating a home you love? Don’t let having a small, rented space stop you from creating your dream home! Many people feel intimidated to decorate when 1.) It’s something they don’t own or 2.) It’s a very small space. There are SO many temporary, creative tricks that not only work for rented spaces but also very small ones with limited storage.

Correction: Chelsey initially listed the incorrect square foot size in her submission. The studio apartment is 450 square feet, not 250 square feet.

Thanks, Chelsey !

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