She Turned This Brooklyn Railroad Apartment’s Tricky Layout Into Its Biggest Strength

Unlike most New York City rental apartment searches, this one-bedroom unit on the Park Slope and Gowanus border in Brooklyn seemingly “fell into Tess Wunder’s lap.” Previously, she’d lived in an apartment with a lower rent because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it was about to increase. 

Tess, who shares about designing her apartment as well as fashion on TikTok, was slightly stressed about finding another home within her price range. Luckily, a coworker’s landlord was looking to fill a space, and it was within her budget. 

“When I first saw the apartment, I really had to see the vision because the previous tenant did not take care of the unit,” Tess explained. “Even despite this, I saw so much potential, and I loved the overall character of the space. I was excited to tackle the challenge and see what I could turn it into, knowing I’d be here for longer than the usual one-year lease.” 

And after three-and-a-half years and design hiccups (lack of storage, unique layouts, and planning), it’s finally “done.” When she first moved in, the apartment was a “blank slate.” But now, it’s a mirror of Tess and her interests. 

“The space is very much a reflection of myself and is a safe, cozy space for me to land each day,” Tess said. 

• Bathroom — Backdrop “36 Hours in Marrakesh” 
• Living Room — Backdrop “Natural Habitat” 

• Rug — Etsy
• Calendars — Linnea Design

• Sofa — Article 
• Room Divider — Lichen NYC
• Accent Chair — Driade Roly Poly Armchair 
• Paper Floor Lantern — H&M Home
• Coffee Table — Live Russet
• Table Lamp — CB2
• Armchair — IKEA
• Rug — Rugs USA

• Dining Chairs — Thrifted 
• Dining Table — DIY
• Sofa — Wayfair 
• Curio Cabinet — Vintage 

• Storage Cabinet — IKEA Kallax

• Cabinet — IKEA Billy
• Bedding — Quince
• Rug — Rugs USA
• Sconces — IKEA
• Ceiling Light Cover — Tulip Shades

• Clothing Storage Units — Amazon
• Ceiling Light Cover — Tulip Shades
• Cabinet — IKEA
• Desk — IKEA
• Art Prints — David Shrigley 

• Shower Curtain — Target
• Mirror — IKEA
• Sconces — Amazon

This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
Share your style: House Tour & House Call Submission Form