Remember Owobu Ijewere, the stylish stranger Joanna met on a neighborhood walk this past spring? She’s a 27-year-old graphic designer, who rents a 330-square-foot studio in Park Slope, Brooklyn. “I’ve learned how to make it feel cozy, but I’m still figuring out how to host overnight guests,” she says. “When my sisters visit, we clear out the living space, blow up the air mattress — and then they’re sleeping two feet away from me. I always tell them, ‘Okay, you have one night here and then goodbye!’” Here, she takes us on a tour…
LIVING AREA
Dresser: Wayfair. Coffee tables: Wayfair. Sofa: “Old CB2 on Facebook Marketplace.” Throw pillows: Marshalls, similar.
On a two-year-long apartment search: I moved from Atlanta to Brooklyn in 2024, and decided to sublet for three months while I looked for an apartment. I thought that would be plenty of time to find something that made sense in terms of price, space, and location. Three months stretched into five, and then I signed a lease for an apartment in a new building — only to be moved into temporary housing when the owners ran into permit delays. From there, I moved to another apartment, which turned out to have mice. I stayed for 11 months before I hit my limit. Then, finally, I found this studio last March, and I’m happy to say I’ve really loved it.
Armchair: Facebook Marketplace, similar.
On a charming DIY: I always envisioned living in an older building with interior moulding and character. But I quickly realized I like access to modern amenities and the gym! So I DIYed the moulding. I took measurements, ordered a peel-and-stick kit, and sketched out the placement on a piece of paper. Then I reached out to my favorite guy on TaskRabbit, who’s helped me with all my apartment projects.
On an emergency purchase: I only read romance novels. I don’t know if that’s a good or bad thing! I just started Reel, by Kennedy Ryan. I actually bought it because I popped into a bookstore, desperate to use the bathroom, and they had a strict customers-only policy. I’ve read and loved Kennedy Ryan’s other books, so I figured it was a safe bet! So far, it’s really light and funny.
Credenza: Ikea.
On feeling at home in a big city: I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, which has a very similar energy to New York: It’s loud, it smells, and everyone is hustling. I’m always most comfortable in places like that. So far, New York is the only other place I’ve lived that’s felt like home.
BEDROOM AREA
Bookcase: Wayfair, similar.
On hosting: Since moving here, I’ve started throwing apartment-café parties. Essentially, I set up my apartment like a coffee shop, with a spread of pastries and drinks. I invite a few friends, and we hang out over matcha. I got a few of these stools from Ikea, which are handy for gatherings. That’s actually how I met Joanna — she caught me on the sidewalk as I was heading home with my big Ikea bag!
Dresser and floor lamp: Facebook Marketplace. Painting: by Owobu. Pillows: Marshalls, similar.
On a party headcount: I only invite three guests max, because I’m convinced that this space can’t fit more than four people comfortably. My friends insist I could do at least eight, but I don’t buy it. I believe that everyone should be able to sit down at the same time. (And sitting on my bed is not allowed!)
Chair: Facebook Marketplace. Foldout desk: Amazon.
On playful place cards: For my birthday this year, I invited friends to join me for dinner at Freemans restaurant. I thought it’d be fun to use their baby pictures on the place cards, instead of names. So, I found baby photos on their Instagrams, printed them out, and put them on the table with little party hats. Everyone loved it so much and said they were the best party favors.
KITCHEN
Light pendant: Ikea. Wooden fork: vintage, from Kudzu Antiques + Modern.
On apartment-hunting advice: If you’re looking for an apartment here, I’d recommend prioritizing location over size. If you can’t live in your dream neighborhood, then try to live near a subway that’ll get you to it.
On saving space: I have a storage unit about 10 minutes away from my building, where I keep winter clothes and holiday decor. I also keep things like my prom dress and old journals in there (I’m sentimental!). I did the math and realized I’d rather pay $150 for a storage locker than an extra $1,000 for a bigger apartment.
On new adventures: I got engaged earlier this summer, and I’m actually moving out of my studio in a couple weeks. My partner lives in Toronto, and I’ve decided to give Canada a try. I’m really excited to be living with my best friend, but I’m sad to be leaving New York. I made my fiancé promise me that we’ll move back here in a couple years, and I’m holding him to it.
Thank you so much, Owobu! We’re rooting for you!
P.S. More house tours, including Stella Blackmon’s 175-square-foot apartment, and a small Swedish apartment that’s bursting with color.
(Photos by Veronica Olson for Cup of Jo.)
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