A liveable space for Two

We have been in Hanger Lane for a few weeks now and finally have a bit of liveable space. Our flat is 2.5m x 3m (8ft x 10ft) approximately but we have managed to make a cozy nest for ourselves. As our wardrobe was unnecessarily massive we managed to trade one of our upstairs neighbors for a smaller one. He got more closet space and we have walking room, a win win. It was good to sort out the rarely used clothes that hide in the back of the wardrobe anyway. Sadly, it did not lead to a dream world of magic (for all you Narnia fans). Most are now in the local clothing recycling box. (see Ode to the Chilean jacket.)

It helps having the loft finished  as well (check out Flickr). Raising the bed 1.5 m (5 ft, just slouching height) really utilizes the volume of the room as there isnt much floor area . So much more space in fact, we had to hit IKEA for a new KLOBO sofa.

Steven the "tool man" Taylor has been busy building this loft for the last two weeks. After 400 screws, £250 of timber,  10 High Load barring brackets, and hours of planning and sawing the bed is lofted. He is still planning a few "mods" to add stability. It is stable enough to sleep in for the time being.

 When we have a bit of time in July Steven will start planning a desk for my up coming fall semester. The summer is going too fast, thinking about classes already.

At least we have a bit of travelling to look forward to. For now its tools down as we are packing our bags for a weekend in Brighton. It will be a well deserved break from the city.

Put a Bird on It

So I was in a Paperchase stationary store (always dangerous place to be with money to spend) yesterday and found the most amazing card wallet. The impulse buyer deep inside shouted "YOU NEED THIS WALLET" and with the birds who could resist. Here in London it is useful to have a separate wallet for your Oyster card.

I just thought this was too hilarious not to share.

To truely appreciate this in all its glory there is a bit of background that you need to know.

Portlandia is a comedy sketch series exploring "everday" life in Portland Oregon. "Its where young people go to retire"
When in town, my culturally savvy sister in law, Emily, introduced us to Portlandia with this clip.

 

The best part is, I dont think Paperchase collaborated with the series. It was an independent venture in marketing. "Need to sell more wallets, Put a bird on it"