Ever feel like your home isn't truly you? Anne Parker, a talented production designer and prop stylist in Portland, Oregon, has spent the last decade crafting a one-bedroom apartment that's a vibrant reflection of her personality after navigating a significant life change. "I originally moved here with my partner," Anne shares, "But after we broke up, I stayed because I love this space. I’ve spent so much time building my life here; it feels like an extension of me." Let's take a peek inside this inspiring sanctuary, captured beautifully by Leela Cyd, and discover how Anne turned a rental into a deeply personal haven.
KITCHEN: Where Family Bonds and Culinary Adventures Flourish
Anne's kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it's a testament to family collaboration. "My dad is a retired carpenter, so I’m constantly asking him to help me with home projects." Together, they've built a custom kitchen pantry, shelves, and even a shed outside. What's truly special is the bond they've strengthened through these projects. "He’s a patient teacher, and I’ve learned a lot," Anne says. Think about it: could a shared DIY project be the perfect way to connect with your own family?
The kitchen is also the heart of Anne's social life. "I like having people over as much as possible." She hosts weekly dinners with a neighbor and her three daughters, who have become like goddaughters. "Over time they’ve become my goddaughters, and we always try to explore new foods." These meals are a reminder that a simple shared meal can forge profound connections.
But here's where it gets controversial... some might say that renting limits your ability to truly personalize a space. Anne, however, proves that wrong! Her raised garden beds in the backyard are a testament to her commitment to creating a vibrant, personal space. "When I moved in, I built raised beds in the backyard. My #1 priority is to plant things that make a good salad." She grows everything from mesclun and collards to kale, chard, peppers, herbs, and cucumbers. "I love making Mediterranean salads, and I just made gazpacho for dinner using my tomatoes and basil." Imagine the satisfaction of creating a meal almost entirely from your own garden!
LIVING AREA: A Cozy Space for Furry Friends and Festive Gatherings
Anne's living area is a cozy blend of comfort and personal style. After her relationship ended, she found companionship in an unexpected place: the Humane Society. "After my relationship ended, I started visiting the Humane Society pretty regularly. One morning, I just knew that I was going to meet my dog that day."
- Coffee table: Wayfair
- Rug: Boutique Rugs
And this is the part most people miss...the story behind her dog Pepe's name is pure serendipity. "Years earlier, my boyfriend and I had had a conversation about potential children’s names, and I said that I loved the name Pepe. After watching this dog at the Humane Society for a while, I decided to check his name tag, so I could ask the volunteers if I could meet him. His name was Pepe. I went home with him that day." What are the odds?!
- Sofa: One Kings Lane
- Table lamp: Zara Home
- Bookshelves: Homemade by Anne and her dad
Anne's living room isn't just for quiet nights in; it's also a hub for unforgettable parties. "I’ve worked freelance for the past 13 years, so I never attended work holiday parties. So, I had the idea to throw an office-style holiday party, but for freelancers." Last December, she squeezed 57 people into her one-bedroom apartment! "A friend brought Chex Mix, and I made shrimp cocktail, deviled eggs, cheese and crackers, potato chips with onion dip, popcorn, and cookies. Plus, a big bowl of Amaro Lambrusco punch. We were packed in here like sardines, but it was so much fun." That's a party to remember!
OFFICE NOOK: Inspiration and Productivity in a Small Space
Even a small corner can be a powerhouse of productivity and inspiration.
- Print: Design Museum Denmark gift shop
- Desk: A DIY creation using a file cabinet, Ikea desktop, and custom-made legs
- Wicker armchair and rug: Facebook Marketplace
Anne finds inspiration in literature. "I recently enjoyed the novel The Rachel Incident. It’s a coming-of-age story about the romances and shenanigans of twenty-something friends in Ireland. I also liked Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, which outlines how the Democratic party can move forward in a hopeful way. I keep notes in my phone of all the books I read, along with a rating of one to five stars." Do you keep track of the books you read? And if so, how?
- Green chair: Vintage
- Sheep pillow: CB2
Her mealtime rituals are equally enriching. "One of my go-to meals is a rice bowl with cooked salmon, kimchi, avocado, pickled cucumbers and scallions. During dinner, I like to read the political newsletter What A Day by Crooked Media, so I can stay up on current events." Blending nourishment for the body and mind!
DINING AREA: Where Civic Engagement Takes Center Stage
Anne's commitment extends beyond her home and into her community. "In 2020, during the height of Covid, I became friends with a neighbor who was a political organizer. With only 100 more days until the election, I asked him, ‘If you were me, what would you be doing right now?’ And he said, ‘Get involved on the state legislative level to elect Democrats. Because, essentially, everything trickles up'."
She's actively involved with Sister District, a grassroots organization that connects volunteers in blue states with campaigns in purple states. "I’ve volunteered a lot with Sister District, a grassroots organization that pairs people in blue states to make calls and help elect Democrats in purple states. I saw firsthand how speaking one-on-one with people helps to really engage voters; in fact, phone banking is one of the most effective tools to ensure voter turnout. It’s super well organized and actually a lot of fun. Sister District has everything figured out for you." Volunteering, she discovered, is a powerful way to make a tangible difference.
BEDROOM: A Sanctuary for Reflection and Renewal
Anne's bedroom is a peaceful retreat.
- Pillow case: Zara Home
Her experiences have shaped her perspective on work and life. "Growing up, I always saw work as the way to effect change in the world. But I realized that I can make a difference through volunteering, personal interactions, and the community that I build. My job as a stylist affords me a lot of free time to be the change I want to see."
- Sofa: Craigslist
- Striped pillow: Ikea
- Floor cushion: Thrifted
- Rug: Boutique Rugs
And here's a dose of inspiration: Anne emphasizes the importance of action in overcoming despair. "One thing I learned through volunteering is that action is the antidote to despair. When you’re actually doing something — like making phone calls and connecting with people whose votes matter — you can’t help but feel hope. That’s the only thing that I have experienced that has helped me make sense of this scary time."
Finally, Anne reflects on the unique benefits of solo living. "I think everyone should live alone at some point. There are moments that can feel lonely or scary, but it’s rare to have the opportunity in your life when you can make every decision: when and what you eat, how you spend your time, how you decorate, what goes where. On the other hand, when I lose my keys, I have no one to blame but myself!"
Thank you, Anne, for sharing your inspiring home and story! You can follow her on Instagram.
So, what do you think? Does Anne's story inspire you to personalize your own living space, regardless of whether you rent or own? And what are your thoughts on the power of solo living? Share your comments below!
P.S. Check out more house tours, including a family’s downsized dream home and a Connecticut house that defines coziness.
(Photos by Leela Cyd for Cup of Jo.)
