Find Your Perfect Summer Reads: Engaging Books for 2025

Discovering a Colorful Philly Home: Cats, Comfort, and Creativity

Update Embracing Color and Comfort in Philadelphia Ten years ago, author Emma Copley Eisenberg found a 1,100-square-foot row house in Philadelphia, a city known for its charming architecture. Initially filled with outdated features, the house needed extensive renovations, but the promise of a vibrant home was too alluring. Emma recalls, "The renovation took five years off my life." Creating a Cozy Living Space Emma's partner, Art Phùng, joined her five years later, and together they defined their shared aesthetic. The couple transformed their living room with a spacious sectional sofa from Joybird, a decision spurred by the challenges of creating a comfortable space for themselves and their three cats: Tofu, Gabriel, and Sesame. "We needed a couch that our cats wouldn’t destroy and where we could both stretch out," Emma explains, highlighting the duo's efforts to combine their styles—her love for vintage Victorian touches with his modern sensibilities. Rituals of Relaxation and Connection As the week wraps up, it’s no wonder the couple cherishes their cozy Friday nights featuring homemade guacamole and laughter from favorite comedians. “In our house, Friday night means making guac, taking an edible, and watching a comedy special,” states Emma, revealing how they unwind amid their busy lives. Symbolism in Their Space The couple has also surrounded themselves with reminders of inspiration, displaying their literary heroes throughout their home. A standout cutout of Grace Paley, one of their wedding table toppers, serves as a testament to the literary influences shaping their lives. For Art, cooking is another important area of connection. He enjoys inviting friends over for hot pot nights, fostering communities around meals. "I love doing a hot pot night; we’ll put a portable hot pot on the dining room table and ask friends to bring their favorite ingredients," he shares. The Importance of Home In a world where physical space can often feel impersonal, Emma and Art’s journey to create a warm, welcoming home filled with vibrant colors, beloved pets, and good food serves as a reminder that our living spaces can be a reflection of our values and joys. This colorful abode not only stands out in Philadelphia's architectural landscape but also mirrors the couple’s love story—filled with personality, creativity, and warmth.