Before and After in Williamsburg

In 2012, then-boyfriend and I moved into THIS STARTLINGLY RUNDOWN, yet adorable, first-apartment-together apartment in Williamsburg. I had the presence of mind to catalogue our arrival.

Before:


Cackling with glee, we rejoiced at our "one" "bedroom" "find" in a prime spot—no scare quotes for the location, because it genuinely is partay city. Fun when you're 24, less so at 28 (going on 100).

While we were a little bit stunned to see the decade-faded, stained scene in the weak light of moving day, we still knew we'd be able to turn the place around and make it our own. And over four and change years, we did.

After:


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After:




Now, of course, I only see the flaws—low, peeling ceiling, troglodytic inner rooms, grody-ass bathroom, terrible neighbors, no doors. But for a young couple, the super cheap rent and unique layout was perfect. And we had the best bars and restaurants in the world right around the corner.

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After:


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Fin. We decided to go for something bigger and brighter—and essentially double the rent—in a beeeeautiful new 'hood. So long, Williamsburg. New "before"s coming soon.

(Also aw this so cute.)