A 400-Square-Foot Home Feels Spacious, Thanks to Planning, Painting, and IKEA

White living room space in apartment
White kitchen leading to white multi-use space
White multi-use space with book shelves and working space
Wooden shelves of books
"The photo is of me, my mom, and grandma (Omi) after seeing Hillary Clinton speak several years ago. My Omi passed away recently, so having her in my new space is super special," Esther writes. Credit: Daniel Totino Credit: Daniel Totino
Open window leading to black cat and plants on deck
World map hanging on white wall
White room with art and objects on wall
Green bedroom with painting hung on wall and black cat on bed
Floorplan of British Columbia residence
Thanks, Esther! Credit: Daniel Totino Credit: Daniel Totino

ABOUT THIS TOUR

HOME TYPE: Apartment

LOCATION: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

STYLE: Minimal, Scandinavian

BEDROOMS: 1

SQUARE FEET: 400

This is the first home that Esther Rzeplinski has owned. “Buying on my own was stressful and something I never thought I’d manage. I poured my soul into this little apartment immediately by planning, painting, and installing cabinets, shelves, and a finicky wall desk. I now feel such peace when I’m at home, and am so pleased with how things turned out. I think my kitties enjoy it, too. They love lounging on the balcony and watching activity on the street/sidewalk,” Esther writes.

White multi-use space with book shelves and working space

“While my apartment was within my budget, I also chose it for its alignment with my values around climate, urbanism, and consumerism. Things are important to me, but I don’t want to serve them,” Esther continues.

White room with art and objects on wall

“While I believe in function before form (i.e., waiting a while and seeing how you use a space/what you need before changing things or buying something), I had the entire floor plan, shopping and projects list, paint, etc,. before I took possession,” Esther admits. “So, sometimes do what feels right and throw out your rulebook.”

Green bedroom with painting hung on wall and black cat on bed
"Although small, my bedroom is the perfect sleeping nook. I have never slept better! I love the color I chose for the walls and my artwork, which feels empowering and very 'me,'" Esther admits. Credit: Daniel Totino Credit: Daniel Totino

Esther, who describes her home’s decor style as “bright, airy, calming, functional” and “cozy,” has gotten inspiration for small-space living from a number of different accounts, like 600sqftandababy, minima organizing, Laura Fenton, and Erin Boyle. “Their advice for decorating, cleaning, and organizing (living, really!) has shaped me.”

White kitchen leading to white multi-use space
"I also love the hardwood of my apartment and the green backsplash in the kitchen," Esther writes. "With a small apartment, I appreciate how the fridge and dishwasher are contained/hidden in the cabinetry." Credit: Daniel Totino Credit: Daniel Totino

Resources

  • Bookcase — IKEA

  • Cabinet (limited green) — IKEA

  • Wall paint — Benjamin Moore “Chantilly Lace”

  • Chair — Thrifted

  • Lamp — Article

  • Couch — Originally from Article, “but I thrifted it and my best friend generously kept it for me until I got possession.”

  • Rug — IKEA

  • Coffee table — Article

  • Pillows — IKEA and Banquet Workshop

  • Bedframe — Article

  • Nightstand — Thrifted

  • Rug — IKEA, discontinued

  • Bedding — IKEA

  • Tulip table — Thrifted

  • Print — The Poster Club

Thanks, Esther!

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

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