Chef and writer Lily Starbuck reflects on her unexpected long-term stay in a Brooklyn rental apartment, initially intended as a temporary stop. "I never thought in a million years I would move into this apartment, and when I did move in, it was supposed to be for a transition period," she explains. However, after a year and a half, she has no plans to leave, as the apartment holds deep personal significance; her mother owns the building and she has ties to the previous occupants.
Upon moving in, Lily began transforming the 500-square-foot space. Contrary to expectations that it would feel cramped, Lily found the apartment luxurious compared to her previous 310-square-foot cottage. Over three months, she undertook various renovations, including painting and installing new lighting and sinks, making it a true home.
A notable feature of her space is the custom open shelving, which Lily created with help from her father. This project, using wood from a friend's parents in SoHo, spans most of the apartment and serves as both decor and storage. Interestingly, she opted out of traditional furniture such as a media console and dressers, which contributed to an airier feel in the home. Lily is also currently using the kitchen to record a cooking show, further highlighting her creative use of the space.
