That one time I had a Studio Apartment

Two years ago, I moved to L.A. in a little pocket area between Culver City and Mar Vista called Palms. I searched aggressively on Craigslist and/or apartment hunting sites in hopes of finding a good apartment. That means rent less than $1,000 but, with a full kitchen + bathroom + parking. If, you live in West L.A. and you're reading this, you're probably thinking "good-luck" finding a place for that price. I agree, I would likely react the same way since, finding a place under $1,000 with all of my demands is pretty bold. 

As luck would have it, I found one. A cute studio apartment on Rose Ave. with an outdoor parking and a pool for $800/month not including utilities. Score! Besides the rent, the place had a full kitchen + bathroom + parking and pool. I was excited to finally have my own place. 

At the time, it was a big deal living on my own without any roommates because that was my first time living alone. The freedom to do whatever I wanted, like keeping my place clean or messy as I pleased was exciting. I thought, no more worrying about who's dishes are left in the sink; no more waiting for someone to clean. It was all up to me. That first year in my studio was a bliss and in its own right, simply perfect. 

Now, thinking back as I look at these photos of the apartment, oddly, I don't miss it. Sure, there's always an upside or downside to every story. Although, what bothered me about living alone was finding myself bored a lot. There was no one to turn to or tell whenever an exciting story arose. 

Then, there's my fear of earthquakes. I started to wonder the what ifs; what if there was a huge earthquake? It would take several days for people to find me if, something were to happen. Or, what if someone broke in to my apartment? What would I do? Ultimately, I became paranoid. Of course, I was thinking of worst case scenario but, really being a single woman you just have to think about your overall safety.

Gladly, I'm now staying at a nicer apartment with 2 easy-going roommates. Our area is not much safer than where my studio apartment was located. Although, the building is gated and it can't get any better than that. 

facing the kitchen

living room / room

hallway to the bathroom