Home for Now: Embracing Life in Rental Spaces
In the world of interior design, the concept of home has often been synonymous with ownership. But what if you don’t own your space? For many, renting becomes a temporary existence laden with uncertainty and hesitation to decorate or personalize. This is where Paul Firmin and Niko Dafkos step in with their book “Home for Now: Living Well Without Staying Long.” As founders of the London-based lifestyle brand Earl of East, they aim to shift the narrative around renting, showcasing the beauty and warmth that can reside in temporary homes.
A Journey Rooted in Experience
Firmin and Dafkos didn’t just write this book from a theoretical standpoint; they drew from years of experience both personally and through conversations with their customers. They noted a universal theme: many renters desire to make their space feel like home but feel restrained, waiting for a “forever home” before investing in aesthetics.
“What exists in the interiors world primarily caters to homeowners,” they remarked. “But we wanted to create a resource that resonates with those who navigate the intricacies of rental living.”
Exploring the Stories of 40 Unique Rentals
Published by Gestalten, “Home for Now” takes readers on a journey through 40 rental homes in the USA and the UK, each telling its own story. Among these spaces, the authors have highlighted eight standout homes that exemplify how personality and warmth can shine even in temporary residences.
1. Railroad Apartment, Greenpoint, New York
Brigette Muller’s 1920s railroad apartment captures a unique emotional richness. Describing her home as “living inside a love letter,” she expresses how she has fearlessly poured herself into her space. From painting walls to renovating the bathroom, her home is a canvas of personal history, with cherished heirlooms interspersed among modern touches.
2. One-Bed Apartment, East London
Scott Bennett and his partner have a disciplined approach to furnishing their rented East London apartment. They methodically plotted out their space, preferring to slowly cultivate it over time rather than rushing into decisions. Each object—whether it be a painting from a grandmother or a salvaged coffee table—tells a story, showcasing the couple’s connection to both their personal histories and each other.
3. Two-Bed Apartment, Upper West Side, New York
Agnes Baddoo resides in a prewar Classic Six apartment that has been in her family for generations. This familial charm is preserved in every corner, with her daily rituals and practices grounding her in both history and the present. Agnes’ choice to maintain the heritage of the home adds depth, creating a space that feels simultaneously timeless and personal.
4. Two-Bed Apartment, Greenpoint, New York
In contrast to the fleeting nature of rentals, Éva and Ian Goicochea’s home reflects a deep connection fostered over nearly a decade. Their bright, airy apartment is a curated collection of pieces that hold character and meaning. With a library of nearly 800 books and furniture chosen for longevity, they exemplify how a rental can blossom into a reflection of one’s growth and interests.
5. One-Bed Apartment, Koreatown, Los Angeles
Rhett Baruch and Patty Sanchez reside in a visually intriguing 1920s Spanish Mediterranean home that straddles the line between a personal sanctuary and an artistic gallery. Their eclectic collection—crafted from both unique finds and intentional renovations—embodies a commitment to impermanence while celebrating the beauty in life’s quirks.
6. Four-Bed House, Los Angeles
Robert Gigliotti’s approach to his Los Angeles rental focuses on the narrative behind each piece. His home is a tapestry woven from thrifted items, family heirlooms, and creatively sourced furniture. The eclectic decor captures the warmth of shared experiences, creating a backdrop for connection and conversation that feels both inviting and lived-in.
7. Converted Workshop, Stoke Newington, London
Shai Akram and Andrew Haythornthwaite have turned a once-derelict workshop into a stunning living space. Their commitment to making it entirely their own without permanent alterations showcases their innovative spirit. With moveable partitions and custom-built furnishings, they embody a radical act of homemaking that thrives in rental culture.
8. Two-Bed House, North London
Transporting visitors to a lush garden paradise, Zoe Starreveld’s home reflects her belief that renting does not equate to living in limbo. With an emphasis on greenery, textiles, and seasonal adjustments, she nurtures an environment rich in life and continuous change. Each salvaged piece holds a story, augmenting a deep-seated sense of ritual and community.
A Collective Invitation
Through “Home for Now,” Firmin and Dafkos invite readers to reevaluate their notions of home within rental structures. They advocate that the essence of living well is not confined to ownership but rather resides in how one chooses to inhabit a space—creating beauty and warmth from whatever circumstances arise. Each highlighted home serves as an inspiring testament to the individuality and creativity of its residents, proving that a rented space can be anything but temporary in spirit.