How the Alamo Square Pad Got Ready for Its Closeup

You saw the photos, read the interview and now get my own POV! I am still mesmerized of how Apartment Therapy shot the Alamo Square Pad and let me tell y’alls, it happened rather fast.

So here is the deal — I met Kim at an event a few weeks ago and we bonded when the shuttle driving us back to San Francisco broke down and we chatted about life, her gig as a photographer, the dog-and-pony show and how cold it was. Now fast forward to a few weeks later and I get an e-mail from Kim wanting to feature my humble abode on Apartment Therapy’s tour section.

Needless to say, I didn’t hesitate, danced around for a little bit and replied as quickly as I could type. A couple days later, Ms. Kimberly knocks on the door ready to shoot away and it turns out it was the WRONG day!

Picture this…yours truly opens the door in her PJs, hair up and apartment pretty much in shambles, as I was preparing for an afternoon of cleaning. I wish there was a photo taken of my face when I saw my darling photographer, because allegedly, it was priceless. Once the initial horror of miscommunication and long gasp that it was in fact supposed to happen the next day, I gave Kim a tour and we went over the basics of my place.

When the right day finally came, I was indeed ready to showcase the pad — the flowers were arranged, no dust was on sight and all of the DIYs had dried on time. When Kim walked in, I felt like a rapper on MTV Cribs explaining where the magic happens (which in this case, my friends, it’s not the bed) but rather my closet, because that’s where I conceptualize most of my sartorialisms.

A few hours later along with a plate of cheese and crackers and some sparkling water, Kim captured breathtaking images of what I consider my most beautiful space. I’ve lived in a lot of rooms and apartments throughout the years, and hands down this one is the most special. It is perhaps the abundance of light or how I hand picked everything at local markets, shops and many brick-and-mortars to all work synergistically. I am not sure how I did it, but I am absolutely enjoying every second of it and I am tackling even more creative projects.

So without further ado, I leave you some of my favorite images from the shoot — and if this leaves you wanting more, be sure to check the full feature here. Oh yeah and if you live or happen to be in San Francisco, hit me up and I’ll give you the grand tour.

Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off

PHOTOS: Kim Lucian (and you MUST check out her work)

The Nitty Gritty: I opted to go with warm colors and a cozy feel for this studio. The little cowboy hat is from Schatzi in San Francisco’s Mission District, the Pillows come from HD Buttercup and Pottery Barn and the Chandeliers are from a local flea market. As for the shoes, they are Prada from 2011.

The Wonders of a Light Reflector: This is what before looked like and seriously, that camera looks more like a telescope! Bed pillows from Bloomingdales and nightstand lamp from IKEA.

Making it Happen: Kim is a phenomenal phographer! If the Alamo Square Pad spoke or could gesture, i’d be smizing!’

How it was Captured: There was little light, but a reflector goes a long way. Bottom row (L-R): Brian Atwood, Christian Louboutin, RED Valentino and Herve Leger. Middle row (L-R): Calvin Klein, INC, J.Crew & Nine West. Top row (L-R): Dolce Vita, Zara, BCBG & L.A.M.B

Someone’s Trash is My Treasure: When Thrift Eye’s Eli had a spare chair and asked me to take it,  I hesitated, but decided to go ahead and make some room for it. This is actually an old piece from the San Mateo School District, but its Midcentury aesthetic is simply timeless. I walked home with it (only a few blocks) and quickly re-arranged some of my pieces. A future DIY feature is coming soon on how I gave it some sparkle.

More of the little Things: My entire apartment is filled with photos, books and magazines! Oh yeah, and a rotary phone I spent months looking for.

Giving Cooking a Try: OK, so every year my resolution is learning to cook and perhaps now is the time to do it. I mean, this kitchen is somewhat divine, no? Recycled Coca-Cola bottles with Gerbera Daisies. Target rug and IKEA napkin holder.

I Give you, The Nook: Possibly my favorite room in the house (though it can get a little bit cold at times!)

My favorite Pastime: I could spend all day in bed — possibly staring at the window or watching Storage Wars! When I do so, I wear Paige Denim and a Jack Wills shirt.