This Home’s Custom DIY Bookcase/Desk Solution Is Perfect for Small Spaces
Name: Anne Louise Marquis
Location: Prospect Park South — Brooklyn, NY
Type of home: Condo
Size: 600 square feet
Years lived in: 1 year, owned
Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: After renting for my whole life, I was so excited to buy a home. I couldn’t believe I was able to, but I found an amazing spot near the park and the subway and my offer was accepted. Good thing I did. The building sold out in one weekend.
It’s new construction, which is nice in some ways, but I wanted the warmth of a lived in space and it needed some edits. I swapped out the lighting immediately and switched the hardware from chrome to black. These relatively simple and low cost changes made a world of difference. I installed picture ledges so it’s easy to move art around depending on my mood. Most of the art is done by friends, or me, or are just objects I’ve found traveling. The whole apartment is a travelogue. The pillows are from Chefchouen and Istanbul, the masks are from Sikkim, and the art posters are from Paris.
My boyfriend spent a weekend building my custom bookcase/desk suite that I designed on a piece of paper. The main bedroom I keep simple and calm; an oasis that is always guest-ready. The second bedroom I turned into a dressing room and put in a bed I sleep in when guests come over. Home is really important to me. I travel a lot for work so getting to be here is such a gift. I love nesting here in my own little corner of Brooklyn.
Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Warm, eclectic, textured, DIY, clean.
What is your favorite room and why? My bedroom is instantly calming. The art is all by friends, the kimono belonged to my aunt for years and reminds me of my family. The tasseled chandelier is so playful and also gentle.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? My new Bearaby weighted blanket is all the goals. It’s 25 pounds and feels like a hug. It also looks so pretty on the bed.
Any advice for creating a home you love? Really only keep the things you love, the rest can go. Find everything you can secondhand; there are great deals on Craigslist (where I got almost everything). Make the space work for you, don’t worry about other’s expectations. Create the space you want to come home to. I come home after long trips and hug the walls of this place because I’m so happy to be here.
This submission’s responses were edited for length and clarity.