Sharing your home is personal. When I finally decided to post pictures of my apartment, I still nervously hovered over the “publish”button. I was relieved to get some positive feedback. I was surprised when Urban Compass, an innovative real estate agency in New York, reached out to learn more about my new place. Like me, Urban Compass is striving to make both the renting and buying of homes easier. They have created a real estate hub that includes information on available properties, neighborhoods, and how to connect directly with agents. Urban Compass is a far more established resource than my little blog. However, it is something to aspire to. I greatly admire any agency that is looking to make the rental process more user friendly. Here are a few questions Urban Compass had about my new place:
UC: How does your new place compare to where you lived before?
In many ways, my new place is the exact opposite of my old place. I moved from a two bedroom, with a roommate to a studio. My old apartment was built in the 1980’s. It had old appliances and was covered in carpet. Redeeming qualities included a private bathroom for each bedroom, a balcony, and good amenities. It also had an in-unit washer and dryer and dishwasher- true DC luxuries. It wasn’t the perfect place but you have to make some sacrifices when you are just starting out.
My new place has a ton of historic charm. Built in the 1920’s, it was once a luxury apartment building catering to famous actresses and politicians. My studio has original hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and oversized windows. Best of all, there are some modern updates. My kitchen is full of brand new, stainless steel appliances. The bad news is that there isn’t a dishwasher or washer and dryer. Sacrifices.
UC: Are there any little oddities you’ve discovered in the last six months?
Because of my obsession with the DC rental market, I was convinced I could find the perfect apartment. The truth is, there is no such thing. I love my place but over the last 6 months, I have discovered things I wish I could change. The corner unit is extremely spacious but I don’t get us much light as I would like. Due to the position of the windows, I get great sunsets but not a lot of bright light during the day. This is something I never thought about but it makes a big difference. When choosing an apartment be cognizant of the exposure. You may have to sacrifice on your view, but it may be worth it.
The city is loud. Coming from a more suburban area, I underestimated the street noise. I keep my windows open because I prefer cool air but sometimes the noise is too much.
UC: Tell us more about some of your decorations, especially if there is a history in the family!
As I mentioned in the original article about my studio, most of my decor is a mix of hand-me-downs, flea market finds, and Homegoods scores. Here are a few of the pieces I am most proud of:
- The clear lamps with the black shades: My mom and I found this at an antique mall and couldn’t believe our eyes. These same lamps will set you back if you order from Pottery Barn. These beauties were on sale for $12. Not $12 each, but $12 FOR THE PAIR. What a find!
- The mantelpiece: I found this in a restoration store in Charlottesville. Salvaged from an old farm house in Virginia, the moment I saw it, I knew I had to have it.
- Vintage Frech soldier prints: These were a gift from my boyfriend. I admit, that I think they get lost over the mantlepiece. That space needs something bolder but I love them too much to move them. When I tried hanging them other places, I felt like it wasn’t special enough.
- Hand painted tiles: I have a few hand painted titles on my bathroom vanity. My grandmother painted it and if you look closely, you can see that it my initial, “JPG.” Originally it was painted for my father, who has the same initials. It is the perfect sentimental piece to dress up a dull area.
UC: Can you share some before and after shots?
I love documenting design changes. Here are a few shot from when I was first experimenting with my new space. It’s crazy to see how much it has changed! To see the after, check out the original post about my studio.
