A Designer’s Collected 550 sq ft Apartment in Washington, DC

Designer and home decor shop founder Salli Mandel welcomes us inside her completely charming 550 sq ft apartment in Washington, DC.

Salli knew from the moment she walked in that this Craigslist find was the perfect place to call home. A commercial workplace designer by trade and the founder of Maison by Salli, Salli’s personal style is a beautiful blend of collected, layered, and textural elements. She has transformed the apartment into a soft and cozy retreat, maximizing every inch with multifunctional pieces and thoughtful design. Blue and white accents—seen in textiles and glassware— are sprinkled throughout the space, while natural materials like woven rugs and dried flowers bring in warmth and depth.

With an emphasis on working with the apartment’s existing architectural charm, Salli and her boyfriend have carefully delineated spaces while embracing the home’s unique character. Their decor tells a story, filled with mementos from their travels and antique market treasures. Every detail reflects their love for history, craftsmanship, and a well-lived-in home. Enjoy!