Carolina's place worked very well for us as we wanted to be in Lagoa. The living area (sofa and dining area) is comfortable and spacious with large windows and two powerful ceiling fans. The apartment is nicely laid out with small creative touches throughout. The small kitchen area is well equipped with what you need to cook and eat in the apartment. The fridge is modern and a good size. The laundry area with washing machine and space to hang clothes is great. Both bedrooms are spacious with some clothes storage and air- conditioning units that work well. We only used the main bed (double) which had a comfortable but firm mattress. Carolina is very responsive and helpful and everything was managed very smoothly.
We felt safe in the area (although obviously took general care in Rio) and enjoyed walking around the lake during the day. At night, we took taxis everywhere. The apartment is located on a private street with a 'porteiro' (a kind of door-man who keeps an eye on the coming and going on the street).
Within a few minutes walk there is a good bakery (padaria) / cafe which offers a wide range of goods including a self-service style lunch and light evening meal. The prices are reasonable and the quality is good. There is also a small but well stocked store next-door (both also offer delivery I believe). Beyond the Shell petrol station there is not much by way of shops or restaurants in the area but everything can be reached quickly by taxi.
A great stay and we will be returning in a few months. Highly recommend.