This is the first home that Esther Rzeplinski has owned. “Buying on my own was stressful and something I never thought I’d manage. I poured my soul into this little apartment immediately by planning, painting, and installing cabinets, shelves, and a finicky wall desk. I now feel such peace when I’m at home, and am so pleased with how things turned out. I think my kitties enjoy it, too. They love lounging on the balcony and watching activity on the street/sidewalk,” Esther writes.
“While my apartment was within my budget, I also chose it for its alignment with my values around climate, urbanism, and consumerism. Things are important to me, but I don’t want to serve them,” Esther continues.
“While I believe in function before form (i.e., waiting a while and seeing how you use a space/what you need before changing things or buying something), I had the entire floor plan, shopping and projects list, paint, etc,. before I took possession,” Esther admits. “So, sometimes do what feels right and throw out your rulebook.”
Esther, who describes her home’s decor style as “bright, airy, calming, functional” and “cozy,” has gotten inspiration for small-space living from a number of different accounts, like 600sqftandababy, minima organizing, Laura Fenton, and Erin Boyle. “Their advice for decorating, cleaning, and organizing (living, really!) has shaped me.”
Resources
Bookcase — IKEA
Cabinet (limited green) — IKEA
Wall paint — Benjamin Moore “Chantilly Lace”
Chair — Thrifted
Lamp — Article
Couch — Originally from Article, “but I thrifted it and my best friend generously kept it for me until I got possession.”
Rug — IKEA
Coffee table — Article
Pillows — IKEA and Banquet Workshop
Bedframe — Article
Nightstand — Thrifted
Rug — IKEA, discontinued
Bedding — IKEA
Tulip table — Thrifted
Print — The Poster Club
Thanks, Esther!
This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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