I’ve never been into interior design – not because I’ve not liked a well-curated living space but rather because I’ve never had the chance to really get into it for my own home. I’ve always been living from place to place, as many New Yorkers trying to make it have all experienced – but my new apartment is all mine on May 15th. I plan to be there for a few years, so with that in mind – I am going all out. And I have right around two months to make it happen. Maybe, I’m getting a little too cookoo about the way I can put together this new apartment but hey, why not? I want to create a living space that feels cozy, comfortable and spirited. And generally, I want to create different energies in every room you enter.
I’ve been stalking every antique furniture store from Brooklyn to Manhattan to Queens and Long Island, in search of some really outstanding pieces. It’s only been about two weeks and so far I have… a hanging lamp. Yeah, that’s it. I’m finding that it’s really about focusing on those key pieces of each room and working around that otherwise you’re all over the place, like I’ve been for the past two weeks. So after a few estate sales and antique warehouse visits, I finally decided to hone in on exactly what I’m looking for. So I’ve made some moodboards with the help of my Pinterest boards to give me a little more structure to be able to cover more groundwork and find what I’m really looking for.
the living area
I want the living space to be airy and full of texture and color. Something you can walk into and feel like you can really relax and have a good time in. I don’t want everything to be too perfect but cozy and lived in. I’ve taken a TON of cues from interior design blogger Justina Blakeney – the woman is incredible. She isn’t afraid of color and creates lively, light-ridden, bohemian spaces that just feel so much fun to me. Right now, I’m debating do I put color on the walls or do I leave the furniture to do the talking?
the bedroom
The bedroom is such an important part of any apartment. It’s where you rest, where you wake up, get dressed and make the magic happen. So I want it to suite all those basic needs, in addition to bringing updated antique elements into the room. I have two very chic pewter-mirrored dressers that I’m working around. I’m getting a new bed and am hoping to find a vanity that makes sense for the space, to primp and properly store my extensive makeup collection. I’m on the hunt for queen sized beds with high headboards with a rectangular shape. Still debating whether to buy new or antique – leaning towards brining in more cleaner lines and earthy tones. And the most fluffy white sheets, that’s a must.
the patio
I have a small outdoor balcony that I plan to use as an outdoor patio oasis. Perfect for entertaining, meditating, reading a book, enjoying the summer heat and general joie de vivre. Again, the vibe is very cozy and earthy. I’m hoping to bring in a bit of a Moroccan feel but a bit more pulled back and balanced with neutrals in the outdoor furniture. I want to bring some plants that will grow along the exposed brick and some cool wicker-esque furniture that will bring the color down to earth.
I’ll be posting about my latest findings, musings and progress on here, Facebook, Instagram and brainstorming on Pinterest. In fact, all of the images my moodboards are directly from Pinterest. If you want to get into my newbie interior obsessed brain, follow these boards: my place, the br, patio, the kitchen, design dream. I’d love your feedback. And if you’re in New York, where are some places that you love to go for furniture and finishing? Let me know in the comments, I’m always open to an adventure and checking out new spots!