How I'm Furnishing My New House in L.A. as a Former NYC Tiny-Apartment Dweller
Our take
The recent shift in living spaces, as detailed in "How I'm Furnishing My New House in L.A. as a Former NYC Tiny-Apartment Dweller," resonates deeply with a growing trend: the prioritization of space and intentionality following years of urban density. For many, particularly those who experienced the intensity of city living—the cramped apartments, the constant hustle—a move to a larger, more relaxed environment represents not just a change of address, but a recalibration of lifestyle. The article's narrative, moving from a 500-square-foot apartment to a house double that size, highlights the tangible freedom that comes with increased square footage, a liberation many are actively seeking. This desire for breathing room is amplified by the lingering effects of the pandemic, which forced many to re-evaluate their living environments and consider how their homes support their well-being. Further illustrating this focus on considered consumption, similar sentiments are echoed in articles like The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is Almost Here—Every Chic Item I Can't Wait to Buy showcasing a desire for quality, enduring pieces over fleeting trends, and Barbour! Dyson! Tory Burch! Here's What's Worth Seeing From Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale Preview that highlights investments in elevated essentials.
The stark contrast between the starting point – essentially starting from scratch with just a kitchen table and a few accent pieces – and the ongoing furnishing process underscores an intentional approach to design. It's a rejection of accumulation and a commitment to curating a space that genuinely reflects one's personal aesthetic and values. The range in spending, from $8 to $3500, further emphasizes this thoughtful selection process. It's not about filling the space with *things*, but about investing in pieces that bring joy and contribute to a sense of calm and well-being. This aligns with a broader cultural shift towards “quiet luxury,” where understated elegance and impeccable quality are prioritized over ostentatious displays of wealth. This is a space for a modern muse; a carefully considered collection of objects that tell a story, rather than a chaotic accumulation of possessions. The gradual, deliberate nature of the furnishing process also speaks to a larger trend of slowing down and savoring the present moment, a direct counterpoint to the frenetic pace of urban life. It’s about creating a sanctuary, a place to recharge and reconnect with oneself, and the furnishings are an integral part of that process.
The move to Los Angeles, a city often associated with a relaxed, effortless lifestyle, further reinforces this narrative. While New York City’s appeal lies in its energy and dynamism, Los Angeles offers a different kind of magnetism – a promise of space, sunshine, and a more laid-back pace. Furnishing a new home in this context becomes an opportunity to embrace a new identity, to define oneself not by the constraints of a tiny apartment, but by the possibilities of a larger, more open space. The article’s focus on the emotional journey of furnishing, the feeling of creating a space that truly feels like “home,” is particularly compelling. This isn't just about decorating; it’s about crafting an environment that supports overall well-being, a concept increasingly important in a world that often feels overwhelming. Considering the influence of style and self-expression, it’s interesting to note how even denim choices are being approached with intentionality, as shown in It's Here: The 2026 It-Girl Way to Style Summer Denim, further solidifying the idea of a carefully considered and curated aesthetic.
Ultimately, the story of furnishing a new home in Los Angeles represents a broader cultural shift toward intentional living and a rejection of excess. It’s a move away from the frantic accumulation of possessions and toward a more mindful approach to design, prioritizing quality, functionality, and personal expression. The emphasis on creating a sanctuary, a space that fosters well-being and self-connection, is a powerful message in today’s world. As more people seek to redefine their relationship with their homes, and indeed with their lives, this focus on intentionality will only continue to grow. One question to watch is how this trend will impact the design industry: will we see a further rise in demand for sustainable, ethically sourced furnishings, and a continued emphasis on timeless design over fleeting trends?
One month ago, my boyfriend and I packed up our 500-square-foot Upper West Side apartment to move to Los Angeles, where a house double that size (albeit still with one bedroom) was waiting for us. In the lead-up to the move, we basically got rid of everything furniture-wise, moving with only a kitchen table, some rogue accent pieces, and, of course, all of my clothes. Now, a month in, I'm steadily replacing all the pieces we left behind in Manhattan, sourcing items that feel right for our new, more modern, light-filled space. It's been a journey so far, and I'm not even close to being finished. I thought I'd commemorate the moment by sharing what I've bought or am planning to buy to furnish the house at the one-month mark.
For reference, we don't have one specific aesthetic in mind. It's more of a personalized blend that fits both of our tastes yet meshes well together. Oakwood is paired with futuristic white metal and fiberglass, and bright primary colors are balanced out by clean neutrals. Stainless steel is also one of my favorite materials, especially for the kitchen, so I've bought as many bowls, appliances, and cups as my credit card will allow.
Ahead, shop the 29 items I'm adding to my L.A. kitchen, living room, bathroom, and bedroom. There are areas where I'm saving, collecting pieces from H&M Home, Zara Home, and IKEA, and others where I'm investing for our long-term future. Think a USM console from Design Within Reach, a Nordic Knots area rug, and an Eames Elliptical Table. Scroll through the mix below.
Furnishing a House
Bedroom
We've experimented with a lot of bedding colors, from soft gray to Pepto-Bismol pink, and at the end of the day, I realized that white is superior, especially since you can bleach it. I know Quince's European Linen bedding is the fan favorite, but I love a percale set. It's far more cooling, and I'm a hot sleeper. Plus, it has over 1500 reviews.
Buying a new bed frame is stressful. In New York, we had nothing special—just a metal frame that got the job done with no flair or excitement. When we moved here and were able to get a king-sized mattress, I knew I wanted to invest in a proper bed, and I first thought I'd use Facebook Marketplace. It's too bad that transporting anything that large from there is impossible when the only vehicles you own are a sedan and a moped. Zara Home it is!
It's true. My desk will be in my bedroom, which probably isn't great for feng shui, but it's just the way things turned out. I like this one because it's quite minimalist. I don't want the desk to be the focal point of the room, after all, and I'll still have a lot of space for my monitor, countless sticky notes, and piles of magazines that I like to keep nearby for inspiration.
I know I should probably buy a more ergonomic desk chair, but aesthetics matter too, and since my desk will be in my bedroom, I want it to fit in with the rest of the space.
I've always wanted a huge Nordic Knots rug, particularly in the bedroom so I have something cozy to meet my cold feet in the morning that isn't carpet. The color of this one is extremely rich and moody, two ways I'd love for someone to describe my bedroom.
We have a pretty large existing closet system built in, but I have a pretty large wardrobe, and I don't live alone. Therefore, I'm currently hunting down a dresser to supplement. This one is on sale; has a cool, minimalist design; and will be easy to assemble at home.
Kitchen
Moving gave us a fun opportunity to finally replace all the mismatched dish sets we've bought over the last few years since we moved in together, and wooden plates and bowls were what we eventually decided on. I love the natural look.
I'm a believer that kitchen towels need to be regularly replaced. They see too much dirt and grime to last forever, even if you wash them regularly.
These are so affordable but look so expensive. I just ordered four of them. Follow along on Instagram if you want to see whether they eventually become regulars in my house.
I owned a black electric kettle in New York, but it didn't make it in the move. Now that I have a brighter kitchen, I decided to try to keep it that way, which is why I went for this white-and-wood alternative. It really is as great as people say, especially for someone like me who loves a cup of chamomile tea at the end of the day.
This could honestly go in any room given how many ways there are to style it on TikTok. I've seen it become a TV console, an entryway storage device, and a kitchen island when you put two or even three next to each other and throw on a slab of butcher block.
We're not in the most walkable area, which gives me an excuse to try out my hand at bartending.
Best. Salad. Bowl. Ever.
Living Room
For some reason, books weren't one of the things left behind. Instead, we lugged what felt like hundreds of books of all sizes across the country (even after I got a Kindle), so now, we need somewhere to put them all. This bookshelf is not only beautiful, but it's also functional.
I already have two of these but will be investing in at least two more for snacks and decoration purposes. They really do look so cool on your living room table.
I've been in love with this table for what feels like forever, but it didn't fit in our old space. We have mini versions, and they look cool no matter where they go or how you style them, so I know this larger alt will do that and more in our new house.
I was originally planning to steal my dad's authentic living room rug that was in the house I grew up in, but transporting it to L.A. ended up being more difficult than I thought. Quince's options are beautiful and affordable, so it felt like a great start. Down the line, perhaps we'll go the vintage route, but for now, this is a perfect fit for us.
These are perfect for flowers or honestly nothing. They look cool on their own.
I'm nesting at the moment, so a good, thick blanket is key, even in the summer. Yes, I have an AC problem, and no, I'm not ashamed of it.
This book is perfect for your coffee table. I recently got one and look at it practically every day for styling inspiration.
I stocked up on these paper lampshades at IKEA. They make every space look more relaxing and comforting.
This credenza is a huge investment I'm not taking lightly. My boyfriend and I have both long loved USM's pieces and have searched for them on the secondhand market, but they're still quite pricey, which is why we're hoping to buy one new in the coming weeks. I've had the same credenza since I first moved to New York, and it's come everywhere with me, leading to dings, scratches, and missing pieces. Let's just say it was loved. Now, it's time for some newness.
I haven't had a leather couch since I was a kid, and I have such fond memories of falling asleep for hours on it. It'll also patina so beautifully.
An on-sale accent piece hates to see me coming.
Bathroom
I walked through aisle after aisle of discount home-goods stores trying to find a remotely cool-looking bathroom bin and came up with nothing. This was the first one that, while simple, didn't upset me.
I may have gotten rid of my Pepto-Bismol sheets, but I am replacing them with Pepto-Bismol towels. Don't worry. We have some white ones too.
For the first time in my adult life, I have a washer and dryer in my house, so I've decided to take doing laundry very seriously, and that includes having a proper hamper.
My electric toothbrush is wondering why I bought this, but it's cute, and I'll find something to put in it.
Why is it so hard to find a bath mat that isn't horrible? I've looked everywhere. Fortunately, I stumbled upon this one that looks similar to the Nordic Knots rug I'm saving up for, so it's perfect.
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