Step Inside a Charming Railroad Apartment With Old-World Appeal

Romantic, inspiring, and calming are just a few words that come to mind when we think of Brigette Muller's (the creator behind @hummusbirrd) sweet railroad-style New York apartment. From the arched doorways to the tin ceiling, her home exudes a sense of old-world charm that beautifully complements her effortless aesthetic. Originally built in 1928 and thoughtfully designed by Muller to instantly transport you to another time, this stunning apartment is the epitome of french romance and will have you craving an afternoon spent curled up with a classic book and a cup of tea while light pours in through the open window. 

Below, we chat with Bridgette about the Schoolhouse pieces she chose for her space, her favorite DIY project to date, and what home truly means to her. 

Small galley kitchen in railroad style apartment.

Romantic dining nook with plants and pillows.

I live in a charming little railroad-style apartment in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. I’ve been here for two years.

As soon as I walked in, I was hit with an overwhelming feeling of “this is the one”. It’s a bright space filled with so much character—arched doorways, white wood floors, a tin ceiling, and a fireplace mantel. The kitchen also has an adorable built-in cabinet with glass doors that makes me feel like I’m living in my own little store. It’s one of the first things you see when you walk in, and it instantly transports you to another time and place.

Beautiful arched doorway looking into bedroom nook.

I’ve been into home decor for as long as I can remember. When I was younger, I was constantly rearranging my bedroom, collecting different items to display, and cutting flowers from my mom’s beautiful gardens to make arrangements in glass vases. I’m a content creator by trade, but—since most of the content I create focuses on my one life—I’m so lucky that my job allows me to document the journey of renovating and decorating my space.

Cozy reading nook by window.

Plug in sconce in corner of room.

A home is a place that feels comfortable and lived-in. It feels like an exhale; like a place you can fully relax. I think it’s the unique pieces and layers and interesting quirks that make a house a home. It’s the little details that allow you to feel the essence of each  person who lives there.

Romantic, old-world, ever-evolving.

Beautiful dining nook.

Honestly, painting my little bedroom nook a faint blue is one of the best things I’ve done in this space so far. It’s so subtle that some people actually just think it’s white, but to me, it makes the nook feel like its own little special space, and the color plays beautifully off of all of the pieces in there.

Bed with tapestry over it.

Dressing room with curtain in front of it.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, and don’t be afraid to get things wrong. I’ve had so many failed ideas, but through them always comes something better—and they make the wins that much more fulfilling.

Kitty resting on settee in front of fireplace.

When I came across the Princeton Sconce, I knew exactly where I wanted it to go. It gives this little corner of my kitchen a little something special, and makes it feel really intentional. I paired it with a vintage glass sconce, which I think plays beautifully off the metal.

I love to consider all of the senses when I’m creating a space—and scent is a big part of that. This candle is the perfect mixture of uplifting and calming. And it’s made with soy wax, which is a major plus to me.

I’ve been really into subtle stripes lately, and the pattern on this blanket is perfect. I love the old-world European feel of it, too.

Lit candle and plants on table.

Mood painting over table next to robe on a hook in bedroom.

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