Do You Love Where You Live?
I am on a quest to find amazing spaces regardless of size, and find out how it came to be. You can read other posts in this series here.
Michelle, Brandon and their 7 month old son moved into this apartment 2 years ago. After completing her masters degree, the Johnson family was thrilled to leave UBC campus.
There are hardly ever vacancies in the character apartments in Cambie village, Vancouver but its a great place to live because of its central location and close proximity to public transit, downtown, parks, community center, shops, and restaurants.
When there are vacancies they aren’t listed anywhere online; they are only advertised on signs
outside the buildings. So when the Johnson’s knew they wanted to live in this area, they drove around at the end of every month until they found a vacancy sign. A lease was signed on as soon as the tour was completed.
Coming from a 500 square foot apartment with one closet and bikes living in the living room, storage was the biggest priority. To keep rent affordable, they chose to look at older buildings that were kept up well over the years. The space and storage in this new home are a dream. At 800 square feet and with four closets (bedroom, entry, linen, and broom), a storage locker and bicycle room, the main criterion was definitely fulfilled. With experience living in small spaces, they learned that good storage is a must because it helps to keep your home uncluttered and organized and frees up your livable space.
The best room in the house is definitely the living room. It’s the biggest room and where they spend most of their time. It also doubles as a guest room the sofa bed is pulled out.
Michelle says she has so many memories attached to this room such as “visiting with friends, Brandon feeling the baby kick for the first time, and lying on the carpet with my new baby as the sun streamed through the windows.” Not only is the space amazing but the neighborhood is a part of what makes this place home. People watching and walking the streets, enjoying the nearby parks, and eating at local restaurants are a great way to spend an afternoon.
I hope you enjoyed the tour!
Kat says
Love it! My two favourites are the beautiful crystal doorknobs (grew up in an old home with those) and the accent wallpaper. Beautiful, no matter what size it is.
Jeannie Marie says
What a lovely apartment! Being central in an area is so important. The community seems friendly with your picture of the Take a Book, Leave a Book box. I would say this is a good choice. We moved from a tri level 4 bedroom home to a small 2 bedroom bungalow when we retired. Making maximum use of storage is of prime importance. I really love the high bookshelves that are out of the way, making use of empty space. That will be something I hope to duplicate here.
Jen says
I’m so envious of their crystal doorknobs! My hubby thinks they’re too “fancy” or whatever. 😛 Anyway, their home is gorgeous!
Jenna says
Wow! Great space! I love the patterned wall! Jenna @ Rain on a Tin Roof
Christy @ Creating a Beautiful Life says
I LOVE that Moroccan tile wallpaper in the dining area. It’s so important to love where you live and make the best of what you have. Thanks for the tour. I’m visiting from Our Sunday Best link party.
Christy @ Creating a Beautiful Life
Michelle says
What a fun series, Brooke! Thanks for including us. Even though this isn’t our “dream home” we really do love it!
Jo-Anna says
What a great space! I love how they have it organized!
Jamie Koenig says
Slowly but surely we are loving where we live. Your house looks very good and unique.
Corinna Ashley says
I envy city dwellers and their chic tiny apartments. I have none of that, haha.
XO
Kathy says
I think it is important to learn to love where you live – I do – I feel I am living my dream – we don’t have many closets here – lots of space – it is an old house – love the light, the details in this apartment and the beautiful walls. I am delighted that you shared with Home and Garden Thursday,
Kathy
Virginia Fynes says
Stunning accent wall, tiny but so functional!
Emily says
Your apartment really is lovely!!! I also live in a small apartment in Hong Kong so I really appreciate you sharing!
You’ve been featured from the Tasteful Tuesday party at Nap-Time Creations! Stop by and check out all the home decor features. I’d love for you to grab a featured button or share on your favorite social media! :o) Thanks and Happy Weekend. Emily
Heather says
You’ve made your apartment so cozy and beautiful! Love the accent wall! Thanks for sharing at Project Inspired!! Pinned to our group pinboard for some extra luv! Heather