I always find home tours fascinating. It’s basically like low-level voyeurism because you can peek at how people live and enjoy other decor styles without committing. While I’m always a brat about boho and how it’s not really my jam anymore, I still appreciate the aesthetic — especially when it’s well done. For example, today’s Small Space Squad feature, Sara Toufali, aka Black & Blooms! Not only is Sara just such a kind, lovely person, but her home is airy, breezy, and so cozy. It’s one bohemian space that I definitely love. Let’s take a peek into her new home, shall we?
Home Tour: Inside the Dreamy Bohemian Paradise of Sara Toufali, aka Black & Blooms
Who: Sara Toufali, aka Black & Blooms
Where: Los Angeles, California
Numbers of years spent living small: 11 years, a little over 1 year in our house
To start, tell me your story about how you ultimately ended up choosing a small space?
LA is expensive, small space living is really all my partner Eddie and I can afford! However our house was actually a big upgrade compared to our old 1 bedroom 700 sq ft apartment. While we’re not sure of the exact size of our home, we think it’s around 1,100 sq ft give or take. Two bedrooms, one bathroom – it’s the perfect size for us!
What is your biggest challenge in your small space?
Finding places to store things! Our bathroom has a pedestal sink and no storage space except for a mirrored medicine cabinet. I added a small bamboo cabinet to the room to hold beauty and bath products — sometimes if the storage space doesn’t exist, you have to create it.
What is your favorite part about living small?
Our house has low ceilings and a real cottage feel — it’s just so cozy and sweet, the smallness makes it feel intimate.
What is your number one hack for living small?
Take advantage of wall space! Hooks and shelves are your friends, especially if you’re limited on closet space.
Do you ever feel pressure to be “minimalistic” or feel guilty about buying things you don’t “need” for your home?
I have a lot of respect for minimalists but it’s not my style, so I don’t really feel pressure to adapt that lifestyle. However I am trying to be more intentional with what I bring into the house — if I don’t absolutely love a piece, then it’s probably not something I should spend my money on.
What have you learned about yourself by living small?
That I’m actually happier with less. Chuck Palahniuk’s quote, “The things you own end up owning you” rings true for me. After binging Tidying Up with Marie Kondo this past winter I donated about half of my wardrobe and so many bags of home decor, as well as other things. It felt like a giant weight was lifted off my shoulders! I had accumulated so many “things” that were no longer serving me, it felt good to let them go and only keep the ones that spark joy.
What’s your number one storage hack?
Take advantage of the prime real estate underneath your furniture. Beds and sofas are great places to store items when closet space is tight. Baskets are also fab ways to store things away in plain sight while still looking stylish and pretty.
Who is your biggest small space inspiration?
Whitney Leigh Morris and her Tiny Canal Cottage are the ultimate small space inspo! Whitney and her husband, son, and two beagles live in the most beautiful 400 sq ft home. She shares such genius hacks for living and thriving in a small space, and her motto “you don’t need to ‘live large’ to live beautifully” is 100% true.
What do your friends and family say about your choice to live small?
Everyone is supportive! Most of my friends live small as well, so we’re all in the same boat. Family gatherings or get togethers with friends at our house always feel intimate and fun, we wouldn’t change a thing.
Thank you so much to Sara Toufali, aka Black & Blooms, for giving us a peek into your life! Be sure to look Sara’s Instagram feed for more of her style and bohemian decor inspiration.
You can find even more Small Space Squad Home Tours here:
- Alexandra Studios
- Bela Fishbeyn
- Eleven Houses
- 600 Sqft and a Baby
- Katrina Blair
- Crystal Ann Interiors
- Joyfully Growing
Where did you purchase the colorful rug in living room: manufacturer/brand. Love it!
Hi! I recommend reaching out to Sara Toufali as this is a tour of her home and she would potentially know the sources. Thanks!
Do you have a link for the vibrant boho rug in the pic with the rattan chair ad white couch?
Hi! This is a home tour and not my personal space, so I would recommend reaching out to Sara and asking her :) thanks!