This Studio Apartment Combines Work and Play With Lots of Color

In the bustling cities of Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Brooklyn Heights, New York, Amanda, known in the art world as Twig Lips, has found a unique way to merge her creative passions with her living spaces.

A visual artist by profession, Amanda’s journey through various cities has given her a profound understanding of transforming spaces into personal sanctuaries that reflect her artistic identity.

Amanda’s dual-residence lifestyle showcases her ability to adapt and thrive in different environments, each tailored to support her artistic endeavors.

From Dark Office to Bright Studio: The Bridgeport Transformation

Amanda’s live/work art studio in Bridgeport, spanning over 1,000 square feet, has been her creative haven since 2021. This loft space, once a dark and uninspiring office, underwent a remarkable transformation.

When Amanda initially viewed the space, it was far from her vision—it looked like a dark office that needed a lot of love.

“Before I moved in, I worked with the owner/landlord to paint the brick white, all the walls white from a butter yellow color—my least favorite!—and rip up the carpet to polish and seal the concrete floors,” she recounts.

This extensive renovation not only brightened the space but also provided a blank canvas for her artistic expression.

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Polished Concrete and Personal Touches: DIY Projects That Shine

One of Amanda’s proudest achievements in her studio is the polished concrete floors. ”

We weren’t sure the shade of concrete we would have upon taking the carpet out, but once it was finished, the concrete had a warm/neutral beige color that I really fell in love with,” she says.

The practical flooring choice ensures that any paint spills can be easily cleaned, making it ideal for an art studio.

Inspiration and Aesthetics: Blending Styles and Influences

Amanda’s decorating style is a harmonious blend of brightness, modernity, and functionality.

“The goal in my style was to let the artwork speak for itself and have the space act as an in-home art gallery,” she explains.

By incorporating monochromatic themes and contrasting black and white furniture, she creates a backdrop that accentuates her colorful paintings. Her design inspirations draw from Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetics and a touch of rock and roll, with influences like Lenny Kravitz’s collaboration with CB2.

In her quest to personalize her space, Amanda has undertaken several DIY projects that have made a significant impact. Swapping out basic cabinet handles for modern black pulls and replacing regular bulbs with customizable hue lights are among her favorite projects.

“The ability to customize the color and dim is so important to me. I don’t want to feel like I’m in a fluorescent-lit office!” she emphasizes.

These simple yet effective changes have enhanced the ambiance and functionality of her studio.

Finding balance between form and function

Despite the challenges of finding affordable yet stylish pieces, Amanda has managed to strike a balance between practicality and aesthetics. She opts for inexpensive items for high-risk areas, such as a cheap rug she doesn’t mind discarding, while protecting more expensive pieces like her white velvet couch with a quilt.

“Since I am a painter, there is always a high risk for paint getting onto something, so I wanted to pick and choose my battles when it came to items I bought,” she explains.

Transitioning from temporary spaces to making a home, Amanda has learned the importance of customization.

In her tiny Brooklyn Heights apartment, painting the walls with Color Atelier’s limewash color, Wabi, transformed the small room into a warm and inviting sanctuary.

“It also allowed me to have the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic that wasn’t as fitting in my Bridgeport bedroom,” she notes.

Making Temporary Spaces Feel Like Home: Tips and Tricks

Amanda’s advice to fellow apartment dwellers is to embrace their unique tastes and update the lighting.

“Don’t be afraid to collect the items you’re drawn to, even if it doesn’t exactly match the style of your space,” she advises. “And last, it is your apartment, do what you want!”

Amanda’s journey as Twig Lips is a testament to the power of creativity and personalization in making any space a true home.

Her ability to blend functionality with artistic flair has not only created inspiring living spaces but also serves as an inspiration for others looking to infuse their homes with personality and warmth.