Two People (and a Dog!) Share This Incredibly Cozy 400-Square-Foot NYC Studio

“The apartment was simple but with some good, classic features. I fell in love with the wood floors, arched doorways, and window paneling!” Sara writes of the apartment features that first caught her eye.  

Sara shares her small home with her partner, Joe Danko, and their very cute dog, Clover. And while it’s a cozy home, it’s not a cluttered space, thanks to Sara’s smart storage solutions.

There are under-the-bed drawers, there are under-the-couch drawers. Sara added shelves inside the existing cabinetry to maximize space. In the bathroom, a rolling cart with cute storage boxes hides clutter. Joe and Sara used vertical space by building shelves that house things like books, knickknacks, and plants to make sure that not even an inch is wasted.

> Join the discussion of this tour in our Community Forum

Although the bathroom was clean and modern, it was sorely lacking in storage and personality, so she replaced the pedestal sink with a cabinet for tons of extra room. And although the kitchen is technically small, it’s quite open — it consists of a small little corner area with the stove, and another area with the fridge and a bar for seating.

I think what strikes me most about Sara and Joe’s apartment is just how livable it feels. It’s full of art, accessories, and personal touches that make it feel one-of-a-kind. It’s a little eclectic, a little maximalist, but also just clearly so loved. It’s evidence that small spaces don’t have to be boring or underwhelming. It’s proof that two people (and a dog!) can live comfortably in one room.

“The apartment is definitely eclectic, vintage, and colorful. It is full of optimized storage spaces, but all of them look cute!” Sara admits. “Even in a small space, we have lots of different colors to really make the space stand out. It is definitely a homey-cozy vibe.” 

> Join the discussion of this tour in our Community Forum

• Napa 88.5” Sofa — Poly and Bark

• Bar Stools — FB Marketplace
• Green Backsplash Tile — Purchased from Wayfair; brand Merola Tile

• Bed with Storage Drawers — IKEA Malm
• Gold Chest — My mom’s basement
• Lamps — All thrifted/found
• Bookshelf — Someone’s trash

• Shower Curtain — Quiet Town Home
• Sink — Home Depot
• Cart — IKEA (painted it green)

> Join the discussion of this tour in our Community Forum

This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

Share your style: House Tour & House Call Submission Form

*I linked the wrong TikTok video above! I meant to link to this video where Sara talks finances.