Fabio's apartment was exactly as described: clean, well equipped, air conditioned, on a quiet street but close to the best of everything in Ipanema. There is plenty of room for 3-4 people, a sunny room for reading and hanging out, and a good kitchen for making meals at home. We enjoyed meeting Fabio and Sebastian (who often checks folks in and out because he lives closer), they kept in touch during our stay to make sure everything was ok, and had helpful advice about dining, shopping etc.
We walked several times a day to the beach, walked and ran around the lake - both only 5-10 minutes on foot. Everyone is very casual here so walking to the beach in your bathing suit and flip flops is a-ok. Good farmers market at the metro stop nearby, also grocery and natural markets open long hours.