"You’d never guess it from her fabulous Instagram feed—filled with photos of a home drenched in pink and adorned with vintage treasures—but Lowe Saddler was once a minimalist. Before embracing her colorful, maximalist style, she felt the familiar pressure to fit her aesthetic neatly into one category. When she let go of that mindset, Lowe discovered her love for blending different styles and began decorating with pieces that truly brought her joy. Her space now showcases beloved knickknacks, books, and art that reflect her personality, creating a cozy, unique home that perfectly exemplifies curated maximalism. Keep reading for a tour of Lowe’s apartment, insights into her renter-friendly DIYs, and her best advice for creating an individualistic home.
Lowe Saddler’s Los Angeles Apartment Tour
The details:
Name: Lowe Saddler
Location: Los Angeles, California
Rent/own: Rent
How long have you lived in your current space, and what initially drew you to this unit?
I’ve lived here for about four years, and I initially fell in love with all the original charm throughout the apartment. I was obsessed with the original wood floors and the size of the bedroom—it’s big enough for a king bed and three dressers, which is pretty rare for LA. The thing that made me apply for this apartment immediately, though, was the huge French window in the living room. It has the most amazing natural light, and I can look out into the trees, the city skyline, or my neighbors if I’m feeling nosy.
Your apartment has so much charm with its crown molding, beautiful hardwood floors, and stunning wall of windows. Do you have any advice for others looking for a place with similar character?
I still can’t believe how lucky I got with this apartment sometimes. It really has such beautiful original features, and the crown molding is so intricate and special. When I was looking for apartments, however, I didn’t necessarily type any of the elements I wanted—like crown molding, natural light, and wood floors—into a search engine. But I did try to limit my search to smaller buildings in areas where there weren’t many high-rise buildings or lofts.
I found that a lot of the bigger apartment buildings owned by large companies (instead of individuals) were typically more modernized. So if anyone’s looking for an apartment with more character, I’d suggest searching for smaller dwellings with less than seven units. I’d also recommend using Craigslist to search! That’s where I found my apartment, and there are so many older landlords who use that platform exclusively. It opens up a whole new world of homes if you don’t mind the search.
How would you describe your decorating style?
My decorating style is a bit of a hodgepodge. I used to try sticking to one design style (minimalism, if you can believe it). But I’ve realized that I actually love so many styles, and I just genuinely love stuff. Trinkets, knickknacks, stacks of books, collections of candles: They all speak to me. So while I don’t love to be overwhelmed by clutter, I do enjoy organized maximalism with hints of Parisian style and eclectic bits that are equal parts romantic and cottagecore.
Your walls are filled with fun art prints and paintings. Where are your favorite places to source artwork?
I’ve gotten art from everywhere. I buy some prints new (Lindsay Letters Co. has the most gorgeous options). I also like to get art from Facebook Marketplace and my local thrift shops. Chairish has great paintings also; I just sort the prices from low to high so I can see the more affordable art ASAP.
Instead of a traditional TV setup, you’ve opted for a wheeled easel. What inspired this choice over a more typical TV stand or wall mount?
I’ve always liked the look of TVs that can feature real art prints, but until I can afford one of those fancier televisions, I knew I could fake the look with a TV that I just pretend is a real piece of art. Enter my easel. I’ve had it for years, it doesn’t take up much space (which I need for my IRL art collection), and I can roll it around the entire apartment.
The pink and green walls in your living room create such a warm, calming ambiance. How did you decide on these colors?
The pink and green walls were an accident! I painted half of the wall pink a few years ago and absolutely fell in love with the shade. Then I got the most random urge to add a chair rail around the entire living room and paint things a soft green shade. I always intended to get rid of the pink, but once I looked at the pink and green together, the color combo just seemed to beg to stay up for a little longer. I think I’ll still eventually get rid of the pink, but every time I think I’m ready, I end up with cold feet. The pink just feels so cozy.
There are so many little thrifted trinkets and vintage furniture pieces throughout your home. What’s your best advice for finding great secondhand items? Do you have a favorite thrifted find?
My favorite thing to do is type the word vintage or antique into Facebook Marketplace and just see what comes up in my area. Sometimes, I’m looking for a particular furniture piece, but so often, I just like to browse the platform for old things with character. If something speaks to me, I get it and figure out where to put it later. That’s probably not the best approach, but it’s been working for me! A little too well, judging by all the vintage lamps I have tucked away. One of my favorite thrifted finds is a huge and super heavy old statue that I named Loki and keep in my living room. It’s all crumbly but so special to me.
Your home is a beautiful example of maximalism that doesn’t feel overwhelming. Is there a moment when you know a room is “done,” or are you constantly rearranging?
Thank you so much for saying so! To be honest, I don’t know that I’ll ever feel a room is completely “done.” I fancy myself a bit of a collector (some people might use the word hoarder—ha), but because of that, I always tend to find new-to-me things to add to my home. So I’m always making space for new art or a new shelf or maybe a new lamp or mirror. I’m constantly moving things around, selling pieces, and swapping them out. I think rooms can evolve, just like my style, and it’s such a refreshing process.
The dining nook and bar area in your living room has gone through many iterations, with various furniture pieces and functions over the years. What about the current setup feels just right?
The dining nook + bar corner is my favorite to decorate, but it’s also probably the trickiest because it has to serve so many functions. I like this version a lot because it has the most lovely vintage pier mirror, my dream bar cabinet, and a vintage tulip lamp (that I found in the garbage). But I don’t actually love the mirror next to the bar because both items have such similar warm wood tones. It makes things feel a little heavy, so I considered painting the mirror a different shade. In the end, I couldn’t bring myself to get rid of the original finish, so eventually I may move the mirror to a different corner. Nothing stays in one place forever in here.
You’ve created such a warm, inviting space. What tips do you have for someone wanting to make their home feel cozier?
My favorite way to make things feel cozier is to add layers and so many lamps and candles. I don’t like to just buy random things and stack them up; that tends to make a room feel claustrophobic. But I bring in layers of items that are both functional and pretty. Lots of throw blankets stay on my couch, for example. There’s also a candle or two burning at any given time. And you can’t see this via photos, but I’m usually playing autumn jazz or random instrumental music to calm my brain down, and that makes things feel super cozy, too!
“Waking up in a home that feels romantic and custom to me just brings me joy.”
– Lowe Saddler
You’ve made several upgrades to your rental, including a peel-and-stick tile backsplash, painted cabinets, and DIY wall moldings. Some people hesitate to invest time and money into a rental. Why do you feel it’s worth it?
I think it’s so worth it to invest time and money into your rental because you spend so much time in it. Plus, rent is not cheap, at least not in LA, and if you’re making such a big investment into where you live, I feel like you should enjoy that investment. I personally stay home a lot so I can get my money’s worth out of that monthly rent deposit. And waking up in a home that feels romantic and custom to me just brings me joy.
What are your favorite renter-friendly ways to add character and charm to a space?
To add charm and still make sure you get your security deposit back, I love swapping light fixtures and switch plate covers. I learned how to change the standard boob lighting that comes in most apartments in my first LA apartment about nine years ago, and now I can’t stop doing it. Just be sure to hold onto the pieces from the old light so you can swap things back before you move. Pro tip: If you don’t think you can swap the lights safely on your own, hiring an electrician to change all of your lights in one go is still somewhat cost-effective, and in my experience, many landlords will even hire their contractors to do the job for you!
Where do you turn for decorating inspiration?
Anything old-worldly with English or French touches always inspires me. House and Garden UK and deVOL Kitchens are both chef’s kiss, for example. And whenever I watch those period shows like Downton Abbey or Miss Scarlet and the Duke, I’m constantly taking screenshots of the decor. I also like to take ideas (and actual decor) from my parents back home in Washington, D.C. They’ve collected so many beautiful and soulful things over the years, and so much of their stuff has history, my history. And I love having that as my foundation.
Your bed looks so plush and cozy—perfect for a great night’s sleep. What are your non-negotiables for creating a comfortable bed?
I think layering your bed is just as important as layering your home decor. I always add a flat sheet, for example, and I firmly believe in adding a light quilt or two on top of your duvet. I’m also a big fan of bedding materials that are good quality because not only do they look good, but they also feel so cozy. I’m a hot sleeper, but even when I have a lot of layers, they’re usually linen, so I don’t overheat.
In addition to paintings and wall decor, your art collection includes several sculptures and larger decorative pieces. How do you approach styling these pieces?
For my sculptures and busts, I add them whenever a shelf or corner feels a little empty. I love to collect them because they add so much character, and it’s fun to dress them up with things like bows, string lights, or garland for a little something extra.
Of all the DIYs you’ve tackled, which project are you most proud of?
Adding renter-friendly wallpaper in my bedroom was one of the most time-consuming things I’ve done, but I don’t regret it. I DIYed the application using painter’s tape and super heavy-duty double-sided tape, so the wallpaper is sturdy, but it doesn’t damage the paint if I remove it.
Storage can be a big challenge in a small apartment. Do you have any hacks for maximizing space?
Storage in a small apartment is still something I struggle with, so I’ve started prioritizing functional furniture with ample storage. Like instead of a tiny nightstand, I use a vintage dresser. I’ve also been hunting for the perfect armoire or wardrobe for ages. Until I find it, though, I swear by using cute baskets to store things that would otherwise be an eyesore.
As a self-described homebody, what does your ideal day at home look like?
Love this question! My ideal day at home would involve waking up early but slowly and not with an alarm. Just whenever the sun rises, I rise. I’d open the curtains, do a bit of an IG scroll first thing (I know people say it’s awful to do, but what can I say? I love to consume social media). Then I’d do my skincare (it’s been such a relaxing process lately and makes me feel like my day has been fully romanticized). Next, I’d make an iced matcha at home or take a nice long walk to grab a pastry and tea. As soon as that wraps, I’d do an obligatory cuddle and play session with my cat Porshie. He’s very needy, so if I skip this, the rest of the day would be torture.
Then I’d read for a few hours—absolutely nothing self-help or non-fiction on the menu. Only fantasy, romantasy, magic, or mystery thrillers. Maybe a mix of all four if I’m lucky and a little Uber Eats food delivery for lunch. I’d use the good plates, though, to class things up. I’m very much a yapper, so I’d make a few hour-long calls and bother my friends and my mom on FaceTime. I’d wrap up the day with a homecooked meal courtesy of my boyfriend and a good show binge. I just got a PBS Masterpiece subscription against my better judgment, but the series on there are excellent!
Anything else we should know about you or your home?
My home is still a work in progress. It’s been my dream for years to own a home in LA, but until that happens, I’ll continue to make my apartment feel like home, and if anyone wants to come along on that journey, I’d love to have you!
Lauren Blue, Lifestyle Staff Writer
As a Lifestyle Staff Writer for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of home decor, delicious recipes, hobbies, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Instagram for beautiful homes to feature on the site.