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SIZING IT UP
WHERE: Park Slope, Brooklyn
WHAT: 2 bedrooms, 4th-floor walk-up
SIZE: 1,800 sq ft
TYPE: Home/company headquarters
VISIT: oeufnyc.com
What was your apartment like when you first moved in?
Demenge The building was an old sewing factory, so our floor was just one big open space. Michael installed all the walls, created bedrooms, and put in a bathroom and a kitchen. Ryan We also knew we’d need a chunk of space for the office since we, along with four of our employees, work from the apartment.Demenge It’s great because the space is so raw and rough—the kids can run around, paint on the floor, and it doesn’t matter. We just wipe up the spills.
How did you figure out what layout would be best for the space?
Demenge Our room is small because for us, it’s just a place to sleep. We wanted a bigger living space. The kids have a larger room;we thought it would be nice for them to be together and share since they’re only three years apart. We just got rid of Mae’s toddler bed and got her a twin size. Mae It’s a lot bigger. It was a major birthday gift.
Let’s talk about storage. How do you deal with toys, books and everything else that comes with having kids?
Ryan Stop buying, is what I say. But still, we go to birthday parties, and there are always the little toys in goody bags—which should actually be called choking-hazard bags.
Where do you put it all?
Demenge Michael designed and made these different-size toy drums; we use two for all their dress-up stuff and another to store their puppets. The drums are great—the kids can open them up themselves, and they can also use them as seats or tables. Ryan But we never have enough of those things, because there’s still a bunch of stuff lying around. You have to do inventory from time to time.
Do you ever have space envy?
Demenge I wish we had a garden—who doesn’t? And a playroom. I like the idea of the kids having their own space to play in. But we’re thankful for what we have. Most people don’t have a trapeze in their living room.
Yes, how did that happen?
Demenge Before I came to live in New York, I was in circus school in San Francisco, and flying trapeze was my thing. The kids love it.
The couple’s design picks “I buy things when I travel abroad. I recently brought back beautiful masks from overseas. And Calypso Enfant (426 Broome St between Crosby and Lafayette Sts, 212-966-3234) has some great whimsical finds,” says Demenge.
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