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Photograph: Lizz Kuehl
Photograph: Lizz Kuehl |

When a two-bedroom apartment around the corner from Harlem’s St. Philip’s Episcopal Church (stphilipsharlem.org) came onto the market in 2009, Erik E. Carlson, an organist and choir director at the civil-rights landmark, jumped at the chance to buy the 1,114-square-foot unit. “It’s really an old-world lifestyle,” he says. “It’s seven minutes from my bed to the organ bench, which is an extraordinary luxury.” In addition to the unbeatable commute, Carlson was also attracted to the spacious living room. “I’m constantly entertaining, having choir parties and [hosting] visiting musicians,” he says. Most of the decor has evolved organically, incorporating items Carlson has inherited or collected since childhood, and reflecting his broad cultural interests.

Apartment tour: 2BR in Harlem

Church organist Erik E. Carlson’s clean-lined sanctum is a showcase for era-spanning art, design and pop culture.

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Housing Works Thrift Shop 202 E 77th St between Second and Third Aves (212-772-8461, housingworks.org) “The mission is noble, and I think the Upper East Side location has all the ‘good stuff’ for that neighborhood,” says Carlson of the thrift-store chain that helps fund support services for people with HIV/AIDS.

Rose’s Gallery 119 Baxter St between Canal and Hester Sts (212-941-5972) Carlson has all his framing done at this Chinatown shop. “[Owner Rose Ding’s] sunny demeanor is infectious, and she and her husband do quality work at an excellent value,” he raves. “I have her on speed dial!”

Toy Tokyo 91 Second Ave between 5th and 6th Sts (212-673-5424, toytokyo.com) “I’m particularly drawn to the limited-edition pieces by Brandt Peters and Ron English,” says Carlson of this figurine and novelty mecca. “They are very imaginative, and chances are pretty good that your friends won’t have one.”

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Apartment tour: 1BR in Harlem

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