Imagine a home that becomes your sanctuary, a reflection of your journey, and a testament to the beauty of solo living. This is exactly what Anne Parker has created in her Portland, Oregon, one-bedroom rental. A production designer and prop stylist, Anne has transformed this space into a personal oasis over the past decade, even after a breakup that could have upended her world. But here’s where it gets inspiring: instead of leaving, she stayed, pouring her heart into every corner of this home. Today, with stunning photos by Leela Cyd, Anne invites us into her world—a space filled with handmade furniture, cherished memories, and a life built on her terms.
KITCHEN
Anne’s kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it’s a hub of creativity and family collaboration. “My dad, a retired carpenter, is my go-to partner for home projects,” she shares. Together, they’ve crafted everything from the pantry and shelves to an outdoor shed. “He’s taught me so much, and these projects have become a way for us to bond,” she adds. But this kitchen isn’t just about building—it’s about connection. Anne hosts weekly dinners with a neighbor and their three young daughters, who’ve become like family. “We experiment with new foods every time, and it’s become a tradition I cherish,” she says. Her garden, a labor of love, supplies fresh ingredients for her Mediterranean salads and homemade gazpacho. “There’s nothing like using your own herbs and vegetables to cook,” she notes.
LIVING AREA
The living area is a blend of comfort and personality, with pieces like a Wayfair coffee table and a Boutique Rugs area rug. But the real star? Her dog, Pepe. “After my breakup, I started visiting the Humane Society regularly,” Anne recalls. “One day, I just knew I’d meet my dog. And there he was—Pepe. It felt like fate.” The name, she reveals, was inspired by a conversation with an ex about future children’s names. “When I saw his tag, I knew he was meant to be mine,” she says. Her sofa, from One Kings Lane, and a Zara Home table lamp add warmth, while bookshelves built with her dad showcase her love for DIY projects.
And this is the part most people miss: Anne’s holiday parties are legendary. “As a freelancer, I never got to experience office holiday parties, so I created my own—for freelancers,” she explains. Last December, 57 people packed into her one-bedroom rental for a night of Chex Mix, shrimp cocktail, and Amaro Lambrusco punch. “It was chaotic, but so much fun,” she laughs.
OFFICE NOOK
Anne’s office nook is a testament to her resourcefulness. Her desk? A DIY masterpiece made from a file cabinet, an Ikea desktop, and handmade legs. A vintage green chair and a sheep pillow from CB2 add character. “I love mixing old and new,” she says. Her bookshelf reflects her eclectic tastes, from The Rachel Incident, a coming-of-age story set in Ireland, to Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson. “I keep notes on every book I read, rating them out of five stars,” she shares. During meals, she stays informed by reading What A Day, a political newsletter. “It’s my way of staying connected to the world,” she explains.
DINING AREA
Anne’s dining area is where her passion for politics shines. “In 2020, I asked a neighbor what I could do to make a difference, and he said, ‘Get involved on the state legislative level,’” she recalls. Since then, she’s volunteered with Sister District, a grassroots organization that helps elect Democrats in purple states. “Phone banking is surprisingly effective—and fun,” she says. “It’s amazing how much hope you feel when you’re taking action.”
BEDROOM
Her bedroom is a serene retreat, with a Zara Home pillowcase and a thrifted floor cushion. “Living alone has taught me so much about myself,” Anne reflects. “It’s empowering to make every decision, from what I eat to how I decorate. But yes, losing my keys is entirely on me!” She emphasizes the importance of finding balance, both in work and life. “Volunteering has shown me that change starts with small, meaningful actions,” she says. “It’s how I stay positive in uncertain times.”
Controversial Question: Is solo living the ultimate form of self-discovery, or does it risk isolating us from community? Anne’s story suggests the former, but we’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your experiences or opinions in the comments below!
Thank you, Anne, for opening your home and heart to us. Follow her on Instagram (@anne_parker) for more inspiration. And if you’re craving more house tours, check out our features on a family’s downsized dream home and a Connecticut house that defines coziness. (Photos by Leela Cyd for Cup of Jo.)
