It’s Truly Amazing How Much Fits in This 200-Square-Foot New York Studio

Name: Jessica Sirls
Location: NoLita, New York, New York
Size: 200 square feet
Years lived in: less than 1 year

200 square feet isn’t a lot to work with — but one New Yorker has managed to squeeze in a full-sized bed, an 88-key keyboard, and a table that can seat up to six people, all while maintaining the spacious, relaxing feel you would expect from a much larger apartment. Here’s how she does it.

In many ways Jessica’s place is the best of both worlds — all the perks of a bigger apartment, and all the charm of a small one. It doesn’t hurt that her apartment is blessed with a lot of great features: the balcony, separate bedroom, and in-unit washer and dryer (!) would be enough to make any New Yorker jealous. But what really sets this place apart is Jessica’s unique style, a mix of carefully selected pieces and one-of-a-kind finds that gives her apartment a warm, inviting and relaxing feel. Take our video tour to get to know Jessica — and her apartment — a little bit better.

My Style: Fresh and modern with an artsy eclectic feel.

Inspiration: Etsy is my go-to for unique finds. I want to have things in my house that no one else has. I love going on there, connecting with artists and working with them to create something truly special that goes perfectly with my decor.

Favorite Element: My hanging wall of potted succulents above my headboard in the bedroom or my crafty use of space with my keyboard and console table that folds out to table large enough to sit 6.

Biggest Challenge: Trying to fit a lot of kitchen appliances/tools in a small kitchen, and finding a spot for my 88-key keyboard.

What Friends Say: That my apartment feels warm, inviting and calming. And that they’re shocked I’ve made this space work — haha.

Proudest DIY: My refurbished old stool that I painted white with bronze legs.

Biggest Indulgence: Books! I have to have them in every room. They always put a smile on my face 🙂

Best Advice: Figure out how you live, what you want at your fingertips, what you don’t need and design your space around that. Functionality is key. It’s not about incorporating every design concept out there but focusing on what really makes you happy and what you can’t live without.

Dream Sources: Etsy, CB2, Anthropologie, West Elm.

• Shelves: Restoration Hardware
• Console Table/Kitchen Table: Crate & Barrel
• Dining Chairs: Overstock

• Headboard: Anthropologie
• Woven Wall Hanging: Etsy (JBloomCo)
• Ladder Desk: West Elm
• Rug: Anthropologie
• Dresser: CB2
• Wall Hanging Clay Pots: Etsy (ThynoClayworks)
• Mirror: West Elm
• “Not All Who Wander Are Lost” print: Etsy (BookishlyUK)

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