Don’t call her merely an influencer. Danielle Carolan is one of the top content creators across a variety of categories. From her social media mini series AM Uncovered where she uncovers morning routines of influential individuals across the New York City area to her podcast Gals On The Go, which she co-hosts with Brooke Miccio, to more than half a million subscribers on YouTube and a large following on Instagram and TikTok, she’s known for her style as well as her passion for the city.
It’s also safe to say she’s made the prefect transition from college influencer to mid her 20’s New York era. Part of can be attributed to the fact that her Greenwich Village apartment was the prefect spot for content creation. While it wasn’t her first home in Manhattan, it was a meaningful space for her. Although she recently announced she was moving out, living in that home was an experience she definitely won’t forget. “As I wrap up my last month in this apartment, I realize how much I’ll miss it. I fell in love with this corner unit for its beautiful columns and large windows,” she says. “I’m also sad to part with my Hannah Montana closet room, which was a dream come true and so much fun. Moving on will be a new adventure, and I can’t wait to decorate my new space.”
Here’s a look inside the apartment along with her best ideas on how to live in a space that’s ideal for content creation.
Think Likes And Light Before Signing A Lease
One of the most important things to consider before moving into a home where you’ll be creating content is the amount of natural light. Even those ring lights constantly advertised on TikTok pale in comparison to natural light. So when it comes to windows—more is more.
Having spaces designed specifically for filming is also important. For Carolan, it was her closet room. “It was the perfect second room for filming content, including beauty videos. It also fits my overall aesthetic.”
Find Inspiration Beyond Pinterest
While many people look to social media for inspiration, Carolan embraces places she has a real-life connection with. The 1 Hotel was a major source of inspiration for her. “My design aesthetic can be described as very luxurious hotel-inspired, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment.”
With locations in Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville among other cities, 1 Hotels are truly unique and have a modern vibe that’s still cozy.
The hospitality influence is felt throughout the space, with a similar use of neutral colors, natural materials, and art.
Preplan, If Possible
While pre-planning every single aspect of a home is impossible, Carolan likes to hit the ground running. “I’m a triple Virgo, so I’m very organized and very planned out. I feel like I’m an anomaly in the sense that I prefer to move in and, like, pretty much have everything ready to go—not necessarily the decor, but all the furniture,” she says. “Because I am crazy like that. I need everything to be done.”
After all, once you have a handle on the larger items, adding in the little yet impactful details is much easier.
Get Help And Know Where To Shop
Carolan worked with interior designer Sierra Belonga Interiors but the project was truly collaborative. Part of working with the designer was figuring out how to budget for the project. “I think you have to decide what makes the most sense that you want to spend money on. My designer asked what the budget was. It’s always hard to figure out how much you want to spend.”
For example, she really wanted the Cloud Sofa from RH, but ended up with the Harmony Sofa from West Elm, which is a dupe. It’s still a high-quality investment piece—just a little more affordable.
Carolan was also able to find pieces that looked high-end from Wayfair along with decor from Amazon.
Another one of her favorite places to shop was Pottery Barn Kids, where she purchased a mirror. While she tells me it wasn’t the first place she would think of to buy things for her home, after Belonga introduced her to the brand—she was really surprised at both the styles and price point.
What’s Next
After two years, Carolan is excited for her next adventure. “My style is slowly starting to change and I’m thinking of a more moody aesthetic. I love all of my current pieces, but I might go dark. Maybe get a black coffee table,” explains the content creator. “I feel like when I move, it gives me new inspiration for my videos and for everything I do because literally, my whole life is on the internet.”
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