I saw some very nice studios and I saw some that were like a motel room. I had some requirements: For example, I was hoping for some outdoor space. Of course I had idyllic images of garden parties with a beautiful set tables amongst twinkly lights. Fortunately, I was only somewhat removed from reality and knew that a small potted garden was about the extent of what I get. Although, I remained hopeful for a place to spray paint as spray painting does make me happy.
I also wanted a layout that would allow me to create a barrier between where I slept and where I ate. For awhile I dreamed of a loft, but that is about as realistic as a twinkly light dinner party for the real estate I was looking for.
But then I found my little home! It is 300 square feet of completely blank canvas. And I love it!
I remember after I accepted the lease offer that I realized with some panic that there was zero closet/storage place in my studio, but that just got the creative thinking power going. Fortunately, I have been able to creatively fit everything in with a lot of help from others.
So, before I ramble on any further here are the pictures I want to share today: the Then and the (For) Now (the joy of a blank canvas is that it can always change!).
Then:
(All my pictures were taken while I was moving in, so unfortunately you don't get to see it completely empty, but you'll get the idea.)
This is the kitchen while in the process of moving in (See how much storage I had to start with?)
This is the wall right across from my bed. It is next to the gloriously large window that gives my studio an incredible amount of light.
Sadly, and weirdly, that's all I have. I don't know why I neglected to take pictures of everything else. But it is pretty much an empty bathroom and four empty walls. So, we'll move on to how it looks now.
Now (which was actually November...)
This is the view as you walk in from the front door. The book shelves allowed me to create a closet and separate my "bedroom" from everything else.
Here is the kitchen with its lovely new shelves where those blue strips of tape were. My dear boyfriend (who I will refer to as Martin... but really, I want to write that as Mah-tin, because it sounds British) built the counter top that is on the left side so I have nearly double the space and it smoothly covers the fridge making the kitchen feel far more seamless. Mah-tin's dad put up all the shelves for me (it was about 15, I don't think he realized how many I had planned on putting up). But oh my goodness! They make all the difference! And I have secretly loved open shelving for awhile.
This is my pantry. (Sorry its so blurry-oops!)
This is the view of the kitchen and table from the couch. The shelves serve as storage/decorative/office space. Again, I love them. The drawers are an amazing hack done by Anthony who cut down a three-drawer dresser to fit into 13 3/4 inch space. This picture also gives a better view of how the kitchen counter flows better with the counter over the fridge.
The bathroom is right off the kitchen and has more improvements to be shared soon.
And finally, my bedroom. I have plans for this area (like art above the bed) but here it is for now. As I create, I'll share!
So, there is an idea of how it looks. I know the pictures aren't first-rate, but they get the job done for now. Looking at these makes me think of all the projects I still have planned. It's amazing how much work 300 square feet can take.
It's just wonderful though....
