Woot, it’s Friday! We’re in the middle of painting trim in the living room right now, so it felt like the perfect time to share a virtual house crash. This inspiring New York City apartment belongs to Herman and Eduardo, and they’ve made every inch count. The home is just 500 square feet and includes a modest kitchen, dining area, living space, bedroom, and bathroom. Despite the compact footprint, it feels luxurious and comfortable—a great example of living simply and using space smartly. Herman and Eduardo handled a lot of the work themselves, from demo and floor planning to sewing pillows and curtains. Now, let’s take a closer look at the living area.
The large black unit they installed serves as a clever partition between the bedroom and living area while providing storage accessible from three sides. It’s a brilliant space-saving solution. The artwork, handmade pillows, and a texture-rich rug add warmth and personality to the room.
That colorful piece of art keeps the mood playful and approachable—something you could recreate as a DIY wall feature. Several of the pillows were also made by Eduardo, adding a personal touch to the décor.
The television sits opposite the sofa against a painted brick stripe that’s been built out with drywall to create a small display niche. It’s a modern, unexpected take compared with a typical mantel and makes the media wall more interesting.
Over by the window are Knoll Bertoia chairs—timeless classics that bring a sculptural element to the space. They contribute to the apartment’s edited, design-forward aesthetic.
The living area flows directly into an ultra-chic dining nook featuring a marble-topped tulip table. For a similar look on a budget, you can find affordable alternatives that capture the same clean silhouette. The mirror here was made by Eduardo, another example of the couple’s DIY approach.
A short hallway off the dining area leads to the bedroom. Before we head there, take a moment to appreciate the built-in drawers—smart, space-efficient storage that keeps clutter out of sight.
The office is tucked into a corner of the main living area and feels integrated rather than separate. The desk was built by the owners and topped with plexiglass for a streamlined, durable workspace that stays visually light.
The kitchen sits on a slightly raised pedestal to subtly define the zone. A peninsula adds generous counter space and storage while helping to separate the cooking area from the rest of the room. The cabinets and countertops are Ikea, proving that budget-friendly components can look custom when planned carefully.
Now back to the bedroom: it’s both dramatic and serene, with metallic curtains along the back wall and a silver, texture-rich headboard. A long yellow bolster pillow adds a bright accent. In keeping with the apartment’s practical approach, Eduardo made the bolster, and the coverlet came from Bed Bath & Beyond—simple solutions that look intentional.
The bathroom is compact but thoughtfully composed; small rooms can be challenging to photograph, but this glimpse shows how even modest bathrooms can feel fresh with the right finishes and fittings.
Herman and Eduardo’s apartment is a reminder that small spaces often inspire the most creativity. Their mix of DIY projects, smart storage solutions, and carefully chosen decor results in a home that feels polished yet personal. Thanks to H & E for sharing the tour while we tackle our painting project. What’s your favorite part? I’m drawn to the metallic headboard and the playful living-room art. John loves the three-sided storage unit and the modern dining light. Now it’s your turn.