Bear in mind Owobu Ijewere, the fashionable stranger Joanna met on a neighborhood stroll this previous spring? She’s a 27-year-old graphic designer, who rents a 330-square-foot studio in Park Slope, Brooklyn. “I’ve realized find out how to make it really feel cozy, however I’m nonetheless determining find out how to host in a single day company,” she says. “When my sisters go to, we filter the residing area, blow up the air mattress — after which they’re sleeping two toes away from me. I at all times inform them, ‘Okay, you’ve one night time right here after which goodbye!’” Right here, she takes us on a tour…
LIVING AREA
Dresser: Wayfair. Espresso tables: Wayfair. Couch: “Previous CB2 on Fb Market.” Throw pillows: Marshalls, comparable.
On a two-year-long condo search: I moved from Atlanta to Brooklyn in 2024, and determined to sublet for 3 months whereas I regarded for an condo. I believed that might be loads of time to seek out one thing that made sense by way of worth, area, and placement. Three months stretched into 5, after which I signed a lease for an condo in a brand new constructing — solely to be moved into short-term housing when the homeowners bumped into allow delays. From there, I moved to one other condo, which turned out to have mice. I stayed for 11 months earlier than I hit my restrict. Then, lastly, I discovered this studio final March, and I’m joyful to say I’ve actually beloved it.
Armchair: Fb Market, comparable.
On an enthralling DIY: I at all times envisioned residing in an older constructing with inside moulding and character. However I rapidly realized I like entry to trendy facilities and the gymnasium! So I DIYed the moulding. I took measurements, ordered a peel-and-stick package, and sketched out the location on a bit of paper. Then I reached out to my favourite man on TaskRabbit, who’s helped me with all my condo tasks.
On an emergency buy: I solely learn romance novels. I don’t know if that’s a great or unhealthy factor! I simply began Reel, by Kennedy Ryan. I really purchased it as a result of I popped right into a bookstore, determined to make use of the toilet, they usually had a strict customers-only coverage. I’ve learn and beloved Kennedy Ryan’s different books, so I figured it was a secure guess! Up to now, it’s actually mild and humorous.
Credenza: Ikea.
On feeling at dwelling in a giant metropolis: I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, which has a really comparable power to New York: It’s loud, it smells, and everyone seems to be hustling. I’m at all times most comfy in locations like that. Up to now, New York is the one different place I’ve lived that’s felt like dwelling.
BEDROOM AREA
Bookcase: Wayfair, comparable.
On internet hosting: Since transferring right here, I’ve began throwing apartment-café events. Basically, I arrange my condo like a espresso store, with an expansion of pastries and drinks. I invite just a few associates, and we hang around over matcha. I acquired just a few of these stools from Ikea, that are helpful for gatherings. That’s really how I met Joanna — she caught me on the sidewalk as I used to be heading dwelling with my massive Ikea bag!
Dresser and flooring lamp: Fb Market. Portray: by Owobu. Pillows: Marshalls, comparable.
On a celebration headcount: I solely invite three company max, as a result of I’m satisfied that this area can’t match greater than 4 individuals comfortably. My associates insist I may do not less than eight, however I don’t purchase it. I consider that everybody ought to be capable of sit down on the similar time. (And sitting on my mattress shouldn’t be allowed!)
Chair: Fb Market. Foldout desk: Amazon.
On playful place playing cards: For my birthday this yr, I invited associates to hitch me for dinner at Freemans restaurant. I believed it’d be enjoyable to make use of their child photos on the place playing cards, as a substitute of names. So, I discovered child pictures on their Instagrams, printed them out, and put them on the desk with little social gathering hats. Everybody beloved it a lot and mentioned they have been the very best social gathering favors.
KITCHEN
Mild pendant: Ikea. Picket fork: classic, from Kudzu Antiques + Trendy.
On apartment-hunting recommendation: In case you’re searching for an condo right here, I’d suggest prioritizing location over measurement. In case you can’t reside in your dream neighborhood, then attempt to reside close to a subway that’ll get you to it.
On saving area: I’ve a storage unit about 10 minutes away from my constructing, the place I preserve winter garments and vacation decor. I additionally preserve issues like my promenade gown and previous journals in there (I’m sentimental!). I did the mathematics and realized I’d slightly pay $150 for a storage locker than an additional $1,000 for an even bigger condo.
On new adventures: I acquired engaged earlier this summer season, and I’m really transferring out of my studio in a pair weeks. My associate lives in Toronto, and I’ve determined to provide Canada a strive. I’m actually excited to be residing with my finest pal, however I’m unhappy to be leaving New York. I made my fiancé promise me that we’ll transfer again right here in a pair years, and I’m holding him to it.
Thanks a lot, Owobu! We’re rooting for you!
P.S. Extra home excursions, together with Stella Blackmon’s 175-square-foot condo, and a small Swedish condo that’s bursting with coloration.
(Pictures by Veronica Olson for Cup of Jo.)
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