How I Plan on Transforming My Tiny Studio in 2019

New year, new me. While the saying typically refers to bettering our personal selves with wildly specific resolutions geared toward healthy eating, living, and general well-being, I’m taking a slightly more materialistic approach to it.

I’ve already resolved to leave my colorless aesthetic behind in 2018—in favor of something a bit bolder and saturated—and am vying to take a few design risks. Not to mention the fact that my tiny studio can definitely use a few decorative upgrades as well. Full disclosure: I still have yet to put up my wall art from when I first moved in. Three years ago.

But I digress.

Considering the fact that I live in a rental, I’m thinking along the lines of the smaller swaps with high-impact results. It’s amazing what a new area rug or curated coffee table tray can do. Ahead are the well-designed pieces I’ve got my eye on and how each one will help transform my space.

Mini Paper Vase, Octaevo, $15.44

In lieu of investing in a new vase, I’m buying this chic paper vase and simply slipping it over my existing basic glass one.

Louise Tray, Hawkins New York, $50

The simplicity of this two-tone copper tray leaves nothing to be desired. Its enamel finish means it can work as a decorative tray or a serving plate—and that is always a win in my book.

Bedside Carafe, Anna Karlin, $210

Anna Karlin’s rendition of a carafe is the epitome of modern simplicity coupled with an artful twist. I’ve got my eye on the blue-green version.

Story Bookcase, Designed by Afteroom for Design Within Reach, $183.75

I’ve rapidly outgrown my tall wall-mounted bookshelf, and it’s high time I bring in some backup. I love the simplicity of this bookcase and its architecturally charged stature.

Mara Paper Towel Holders, Hawkins New York, $120

I’m upgrading my kitchen essentials one by one, and a solid paper towel holder is first on the list. I’m swapping my sad plastic, wall-mounted version for this marble-and-copper beauty.

Big Bowls, Year and Day, $52

I’m a sucker for simplicity, and these effortlessly cool ceramic bowls are about as swoon-worthy as they get.

Tortoise Flatware in Brushed Stainless Steel, Sabre, $16

Is it sad that a flatware set has the ability to take my breath away? With its antique patina finish and tortoise detailing, this one is about as perfect as they come.

Aura Mirror, Another Human, price upon request

I’m upgrading my makeshift vanity (it’s really just my desk) with this artfully defined tabletop mirror. It takes up little space, but its impact on the room will speak volumes.

Persephone Planter, Concrete Cat, $330

I’ve regaled the vast majority of my prized greens to basic terra-cotta planters in the past and I’m finally ready for them to graduate to a more stable setting. This concrete planter promises a departure from the ordinary with its speckled color detailing and unique form.

Ceramic and Wood Terracotta Lamp, Maison Numen, $172

Crafted in Mexico City, this two-tone oak table lamp is sculptural yet functional, bearing an inspiring color detail that’s subdued and texturally defined.

Abcdna Helix Steel Coffee Table, ABC Carpet and Home, $452

My starter lucite coffee table has served me well throughout the years, but it’s safe to say that the time for a change has come. Since my tiny studio is not conducive to a large-scale replacement, I’ll be opting for a similarly streamlined alternative. This layered coffee table may be on the sleeker side, but it still manages to allow for plenty of storage space as well.