Bear in mind Owobu Ijewere, the trendy 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 discovered make it really feel cozy, however I’m nonetheless determining host in a single day company,” she says. “When my sisters go to, we filter out the residing area, blow up the air mattress — after which they’re sleeping two ft away from me. I at all times inform them, ‘Okay, you’ve got 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, related.
On a two-year-long condo search: I moved from Atlanta to Brooklyn in 2024, and determined to sublet for 3 months whereas I appeared for an condo. I assumed that will be loads of time to search out one thing that made sense when it comes to 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 completely happy to say I’ve actually cherished it.
Armchair: Fb Market, related.
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 fitness center! So I DIYed the moulding. I took measurements, ordered a peel-and-stick package, and sketched out the position on a chunk 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 very good or unhealthy factor! I simply began Reel, by Kennedy Ryan. I truly purchased it as a result of I popped right into a bookstore, determined to make use of the toilet, and so they had a strict customers-only coverage. I’ve learn and cherished Kennedy Ryan’s different books, so I figured it was a protected wager! Thus far, it’s actually gentle and humorous.
Credenza: Ikea.
On feeling at dwelling in an enormous metropolis: I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, which has a really related power to New York: It’s loud, it smells, and everyone seems to be hustling. I’m at all times most snug in locations like that. Thus far, New York is the one different place I’ve lived that’s felt like dwelling.
BEDROOM AREA
Bookcase: Wayfair, related.
On internet hosting: Since transferring right here, I’ve began throwing apartment-café events. Primarily, I arrange my condo like a espresso store, with a ramification of pastries and drinks. I invite just a few mates, and we hang around over matcha. I bought just a few of these stools from Ikea, that are helpful for gatherings. That’s truly 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, related.
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 folks comfortably. My mates insist I might do no less than eight, however I don’t purchase it. I consider that everybody ought to be capable to 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 mates to affix me for dinner at Freemans restaurant. I assumed it’d be enjoyable to make use of their child photos on the place playing cards, as an alternative of names. So, I discovered child photographs on their Instagrams, printed them out, and put them on the desk with little social gathering hats. Everybody cherished it a lot and mentioned they had been the perfect social gathering favors.
KITCHEN
Mild pendant: Ikea. Picket fork: classic, from Kudzu Antiques + Trendy.
On apartment-hunting recommendation: In the event you’re on the lookout for an condo right here, I’d advocate prioritizing location over dimension. In the event you can’t stay in your dream neighborhood, then attempt to stay 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 costume and outdated journals in there (I’m sentimental!). I did the mathematics and realized I’d somewhat pay $150 for a storage locker than an additional $1,000 for an even bigger condo.
On new adventures: I bought engaged earlier this summer time, and I’m truly transferring out of my studio in a pair weeks. My associate lives in Toronto, and I’ve determined to offer Canada a attempt. 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 shade.
(Photographs by Veronica Olson for Cup of Jo.)
