A Little Tour Of My NYC Studio

naty michele inside her nyc studio apartment Welcome to my NYC studio apartment! Come on in for a little tour of the space before the whole decorating process begins! My official move-in date is next week, which is when I will be bringing the rest of my things, but for now I wanted to share the empty place.

This honestly still feels so surreal. Every time I walk into the apartment I have to keep reminding myself that this is my new home. It’s as if part of me doesn’t believe it’s actually happening. Since I lived with my mom for so long, I never really got to decorate the way I wanted to. This is all new to me. I think that’s part of the reason why I am just trying to take my time so that I can find the pieces I truly love and can afford.

One of the scariest things about moving to NYC is knowing that my monthly expenses are about to double. I’ve been super anxious about it these last several weeks just wondering if I can truly do this. I know that I can, but sometimes I let that inner voice get the best of me. I’ve wanted this for so long and now that it’s officially happening, I have to embrace and enjoy every moment of this transition.

So without further adieu, here’s a peek inside my NYC home.

white exposed brick nyc studio apartment

The kitchen is small, but it’s the perfect size for me with everything that I need. The main challenge is that I have to get used to climbing up a step stool every time I need to grab something from the cabinets. There’s always going to be something that you have to sacrifice with an apartment though, right?

I love the open window concept looking into the rest of the apartment because it definitely opens up the space so much more. As you can see from the photos, my friend cut off the overhang when she lived here. She created a little dinette area with benches and a small table. It was super cozy! I prefer to have the extra space with stools, so the countertop is being completely redone. Instead of black, it’s going to be white quartz. The faucet is getting replaced too, so it will be lower than what you see here. I think this will be done within the next week or 2 and I can’t wait!

My counter stools already came in, but I won’t be able to put them together until after the move next week. These are the ones that I bought. I initially found them online at Target, but after a little internet searching I realized that Overstock had the same ones for $150 less. By the time I bought them, they were on sale for an extra 15% off. Woohoo! I specifically wanted transparent chairs to continue with the theme of opening up the space. Here’s hoping all goes well with them.

Since I don’t have a whole lot of counter space, I had no idea where to put a microwave. My friend first had hers on top of the refrigerator (blocking the cabinet) and then she put it inside one of the high cabinets, but the problem for me was that I really need the cabinets for storage. I also didn’t want to get on a step stool every single time I had to use the microwave.

I did some internet stalking and found the perfect solution. There is a microwave that’s made specifically for small countertops because of its shape. It got great reviews, so I decided to buy it. I brought it yesterday and it literally fits perfectly on the counter in-between the stove and fridge. So if you live in a small place with limited kitchen space, I highly recommend looking into this microwave!

nyc studio apartment I don’t particularly love the black tile, but I do love my little hallway area. This extra section helps to elongate the studio. As soon as you enter the apartment, the first thing you see in front of you is the kitchen. To the right is a small storage closet and the bathroom and to the left – the coat closet. They added in extra rods and a shoe rack, so I can actually convert this into a regular closet for extra clothing and storage. I also added transparent hooks next to the door so I can hang my keys, Kiko’s leash and whatever else.

The bathroom is very small, but it’s all fairly new as it got redone back in 2015 thanks to my friend! The white tile definitely makes the room feel a little bigger. There are some things that I have to get used to in here. Nothing major, I just need to break habits!

I’ve been spoiled with a large bathroom with two sinks and cabinet space my whole life, so I need to adjust to not having that anymore. An odd thing is that there is no outlet in here, so I’ll have to use an extension cord or do my hair someplace else in the apartment. I also need to get used to having the half glass door as I’ve only ever had a shower curtain. I’m sure that after the first few weeks of getting into a routine in my new place, those things won’t bother me anymore!naty michele inside her nyc studio apartment area rug for nyc studio apartment The only piece I’ve put out so far is my area rug. After stalking Pinterest for home decor inspo for the past year, I fell in love with this style a little more each time I saw it. Several weeks ago, I went into Home Goods to see what gems I could stumble upon and sure enough, there was my rug – literally waiting for me.

It was the last one in a 5×7 (the size I needed) AND on sale for only $89. Such a steal! Don’t you just love when that happens?  The original price was $130 and I’ve seen it sold elsewhere for over $200. This was the first thing that I purchased for the apartment. It was such a great feeling! I actually had gift cards saved from Christmas, so thanks to my sis!

I’ve already ordered my sofa, which should be arriving within the next week. I’ll wait till that comes in to show you! I also got this gold wire basket for throw pillows and a throw blanket. Love this as a decorative piece for the living room area. I’m still searching for a coffee table and plan to only have one end table. I’m gravitating towards the idea of a plant or floor lamp on the other side of the sofa. I definitely want to hang some artwork above the couch and/or a decorative mirror to open the space up more. Maybe some corner shelving? 
nyc studio alcove apartment

The main closet acts as the divider between my “bedroom” and the living room creating an alcove. My bed will basically fit right in this space next to the closet. Luckily, I can have a full size. Even though it’s going to be a tight fit and the end of the bed will be hanging out past the half wall, I love that there will still be some privacy from the living room and kitchen area. Establishing a layout in a studio apartment can be difficult, but since mine already has an alcove, it makes it easier for me to separate each section.

I won’t have any room for an end table, so I’m going to decorate the windowsills and use them as extra storage space for little things. This section gets a ton of natural light since it’s right by both windows. My apartment faces the back of the building, so it’s very quiet and cozy!

I still have to find a new desk, but it will most likely go into this indention here by the window so that it’s closer to the bed area and out of the living room. I’ve been thinking a lot about using it as a dual purpose – both a desk and a vanity. So much to still figure out and buy!Now let me get a little sappy and emotional for a minute. It’s been extremely difficult not having my father here for this new chapter of my life. He would have been nervous for me to live in NYC alone, but he also would have been so proud of me and super supportive. I know that he would want to help me out with the whole moving process. He was the number one man in my life and I hate that he can’t be here to experience this with me.

I am extra grateful to still have my mother in my life. She has gone back and forth to the apartment with me to help me clean, bring my belongings and set things up. She’s gone furniture shopping with me and has basically been here every step of the way. I know that this is such a difficult time for her. In many ways, she’s letting me go. But at the same time she’s so excited for me and continues to show her support. Thank you mom, for all that you do for me. I would truly be lost without you.

This was my fist time doing a post like this, so I hope you liked this little tour of my studio apartment! I can’t wait for everything to come together soon. I’ll definitely share more of this whole process, especially when I start diving into the decorating. If you have any tips for small spaces or living in NYC, please do share with me below! By the way, I’m trying to come up with a hashtag for all things apartment on Instagram. So far a few suggestions that I liked are #NatysNook and #NatyAndTheCity. What do you guys think? Let me know if you have any hashtag name ideas! Thanks for reading!

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  1. Julie

    My beautiful daughter dear, you make me so proud to see how far you have come and how much farther you are going. You did an incredible job of your apartment tour through your photos and your impeccable writing describing step by step your dream come true. As the saying goes, “everything comes to those who wait.” None of it would have been possible without God ‘s help. He is in control and knows what is best for you. If He blessed you with this opportunity embrace it and thank Him for all He does for you. I know that you are spiritual and that you thank Him every day and for that I am so grateful. I am overjoyed that I am able to be there for you and help you in any way that I can because you are my daughter and I love you to pieces. I thank God in a way that I am not working because then it would not have been possible for me to help you. God works in strange ways and His timing is perfect. He made it all come together so that you could see everything come to life. I will miss you terribly and my home will be a little empty without you but I know that I will survive. At least, you will not be far, and although I don’t like to drive in New York, I will most certainly drive my car. I guess I am a poet and didn’t even know it. Lol!! Now pray that God will help me put my life back together again!! I love you and congratulations in the new chapter of YOUR life!!!!

    • Naty

      Your comment had me and everyone else emotional! You already know how thankful I am for you, your support and all that you do for me and will continue to do. I’m seriously so lucky to have you as my mom and I honestly would be so lost without you. Thank you for being by my side throughout this whole process. I am determined to turn you into a city gal like me. I will miss our daily adventures and time together, but I promise there will be so much more for us to look forward to. Love you more than words could ever express!

  2. Good luck! So proud of you!!

    • Naty

      Thanks so much girl!! xo

  3. A) I’m so happy and proud of you!
    B) your moms comment has me in tears!
    The apartment is absolutely perfect! You’re so blessed… your dad, your mom and God are always with you.

    • Naty

      I appreciate your support so much babe! Can’t wait for you to come visit! xo

  4. Isabel

    Congratulations on the new living quarters! It’s super chic and can’t wait to see ur final results! Xoxo

    Bella in Boston MA

    • Naty

      I can’t wait to share the decorating process!! So happy you like it 🙂 thank you!

  5. I don’t know which I love more, the fact that you’re living the dream or your mom’s comment. Congratulations 🎉God bless (ps. Just a fan/fellow blogger who’s inspired by your work and now this apartment) 🙂

    • Naty

      Awww so sweet thanks so much girl! I really appreciate the support and love! ❤️

  6. Rose

    Omg your mom’s post put a knot in my throat…I could see the bond! Reminds me of the love my mom showed me when I moved…you are going to rock your new space and make it so cozy and the best part it will be Home for you…

    • Naty

      Mine too 😞 We really are so close. I know it will be a hard transition at first. I’m definitely looking forward to making this new place my own little home though. Thank you for the sweet words!

  7. Natasha

    Congratulations! Your Mom is Amazing!

    • Naty

      She truly is!!

  8. Amanda

    What a great little place! Congrats to you on this new journey!

    • Naty

      Thank you Amanda! ❤️

  9. Giarella

    I really liked it ! Good luck and God bless you

    • Naty

      Aw yay!! Thanks so much!

  10. I can’t wait to see what you do with it. I can already tell it will be filled with lots of love and positive energy. The space is beautiful. Your mom’s comment is beautiful. You are beautiful. Congrats on this new journey!

    • Naty

      Thank you Emily! It really is such a gem of a place. My friend said she always felt such great energy here. I appreciate your sweet words so much. Thank you!! Xo

  11. I am obsessed! I have been wanting to move to NYC so badly and I just can’t seem to afford it yet. Looking at your space just inspires me to keep on trying! I can’t wait to see what you do with it all!

    • Naty

      Aw thank you love! I hope you get to make the move too. Don’t give up on that dream! It took me awhile but it was worth the wait. xo

  12. Huge congrats Naty and i cannot wait to see what you do with the space!

    • Naty

      Thanks so much Shira! You’ll have to come over for a visit!

  13. Sigrid

    You have amazing 😉 apartment wish you a good luck 👍 you are beautiful inside and out you will be okay 👌 God my bless you in your new journey

    • Naty

      Thanks so much!!

  14. Crystal Gonzalez

    NATY ! Im so proud of you ! Watching your journey has been so inspiring ! I can’t wait to see how your apartment turns ou ! Congrats 🍾 🥂🙏🏽💕!!!

    • Naty

      This means so much to me, thank you for the love and support!! xo

  15. Bwalya

    Exciting! I feel like Naty’s Nook really works for apartment decor posts and Natyand the city would be great for posts about your adventures in the city and/or the transition process of living by yourself

    • Naty

      Yessss that’s what I chose! Haha love it! 🙂

  16. Congratulations on your new home! Everything looks cozy, clean, and new! I’m sure you will have fun decorating such a great space.

    • Naty

      It really is such a cozy place! 🙂

  17. Mari

    Naty! You are an NYC girl now. You live in the heart of the city. So much to do, so much to see. New chapter for you. Never look back. Congrats on your new place and looking forward on seeing how you decorate it. Sign Marilovesubabe

    • Naty

      Ahhh I’m a city girl! Can’t believe it’s official. Really excited for this new chapter! Thank you love

  18. Nathalie Munoz

    Naty!!! First of all loved the blog post, sooo excited and happy for you on this new chapter of your life. Can’t wait to see more posts on the apt. I would definitely like a” living in nyc costs or how it’s like living in NYC pros and cons”
    Love ya, hope to see you soon! ❤️

  19. Miriam

    Aww I had to come and be nosy to see what your Mom wrote! Beautiful I got chills and tears! 💙💙 So much joy, congrats again

    • Naty

      She truly is the best!!

  20. This place is ADORABLE! I can’t wait to see how you doll this place up and make it your own 🙂

    Congrats! And it’s not easy when you move out, but it’s nice to have a place to call your own.

    • Naty

      Thanks Fatima! It’s such a little gem in the city. I appreciate your sweet words!

  21. Mercedes Maxwell

    Very Proud of the women you have become. But this is JUST the beginning. Live your best life. Xo.

    • Naty

      Aw thank you so much Merse!!! xo

  22. Congrats girl you deserve nothing but the best! Welcome to NYC 😉

  23. JC

    Congratulations!!!
    Your apartment is so adorable. I firmly believe all NYC apartments should come with steep stools once you sign the lease. All the high ceilings, lol. You will get used to it.
    You will love living in NYC 😊 Welcome to the Big Apple 🍎😊

  24. Latisha

    Love it all! I think the layout really works and you can make this look great. The microwave was genius! A corner desk and hanging shelves might really be good investments. Excited to see the finished product

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