Who lives there?
My husband and I with our son and daughter. (6+3)
Tell me about your choice to live small. Was it a conscious decision or did it just evolve?
Our apartment in China was small but we discovered quite quickly how normal that was in other countries around the world. As we traveled, we got used to a different mindset and way of life than we’d grown up with in the states.
When we moved to nyc, we were just happy to get any space bc finding an apt here is so cutthroat and complicated.
We lived in a 450 square ft apartment and honestly loved it. We were there 4 years before I found out I was expecting. When we discovered it would cost $5000 to break our lease, I went into panic mode.
I might have spent a few weeks throwing a pity party for myself. Everyone kept asking when we were moving and getting more space. But finally, one day I realized this was reality and I could either sulk or find a way to make it work. At this time I also stumbled across your home and account and just the name 600 square feet and a baby gave me hope that I wasn’t the only person out there thinking this was possible.
Our apartment now is “so much” bigger lol but I’m thankful for the lessons of gratitude and resourcefulness that first apt taught me.
We have definitely not arrived in our space. I’m not sure you ever do with kids growing and needing new things. But I’ve found so much joy and purpose getting to share what I’ve learned and work with others through their own space jams and moments of overwhelm.
How would you describe your home style? ex) modern, minimal, bohemian, vintage?
I would describe our style as an eclectic boho in the kids room and more minimal and rustic in living areas.
I want the kids room to feel rich and magical with textures colors and stories. It’s a bright room and I love that their creativity is woven into each corner.
In the living spaces, I lean towards more minimal. Having clean lines and less stuff helps me not feel overwhelmed and able to relax and work. I also love the calm that comes from decorating with natural textures and plants. I love finding beauty in unexpected places. Whether that’s in the art my kids create, an abandoned chair in our apartment building’s basement, or a rug passed down from my grandmother. People often ask to shop our home, but I think the thing that makes it feel warm and special are those things that pop up from the least expected places.
