This weekend, we’re taking a break from our regular What I Rent/What I Own series, but that doesn’t mean we can’t reminisce on some of our favorite stories. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of peeking into an eclectic mix of homes – from tiny studios to houseboats – offering a glimpse into diverse lifestyles and living arrangements.
Let’s journey back to some of the most memorable entries in our What I Rent/What I Own Hall of Fame:
Alaina’s Tiny Studio in Manhattan
In 2022, we travelled to the heart of New York City and met Alaina, a fashion agency employee who makes the most of her 80 sq ft studio apartment. Alaina, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, moved to New York for work in 2021, seeking the freedom to explore the city. She found her apartment on Street Easy, a testament to the fact that even in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find creative housing solutions.
Tide’s Colorful One-Bedroom Flat in Leith, Scotland
In August 2022, we featured Tide, who swapped a London studio for a one-bedroom flat in Leith, Scotland. Tide’s vibrant interior design choices and her landlord’s accommodating nature make her flat feel like a true home. The extra space – a luxury compared to her London apartment – allowed her to fully embrace her creative side.
Rachael and Euan’s Houseboat in Bermondsey, London
Back in April, we visited Rachael and Euan, who live on a charming houseboat in Bermondsey, London. They purchased their boat for £125,000 and joined a community of other boat owners, enjoying the unique experience of living on the water. Rachael loves the space to sit outside, grow plants, and create in her studio, making the boat feel like a true haven.
Mike’s Sustainable Home on a Cheshire Farm
In November 2023, we met Mike, who built four sustainable homes on his Cheshire farm. Mike, who lives in one of these eco-friendly properties, secured a development finance loan to build his dream home, focusing on energy efficiency and luxurious design. He believes that sustainable living and luxury don’t have to be mutually exclusive, demonstrating that environmentally conscious choices can create beautiful and comfortable living spaces.
These stories showcase the diverse ways people choose to live, demonstrating that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to housing. Whether you’re drawn to the convenience of a tiny studio, the creative freedom of a colorful flat, or the unique experience of living on a houseboat, these stories offer a glimpse into the possibilities of creating a home that reflects your individual needs and aspirations.
