Theresa helped to arrange transfer from the airport, and welcomed me in the apartment. The place's advantage is its great location just few block away from Copacabana beach and the Copacabana hotel, near to RioBike rental point and about 500 from the nearest metro station. I was staying there alone, so I felt extremely comfortable and also safe, as the space is a loft of about 40 m2 (it is completely open with only bathroom isolated). The apartment exits to a public terrace, witch is good to spend an afternoon reading a book for example. The apartment had TV with many channels, had some basic appliances to prepare coffee, juices and cooking (as well as filtered water). If you are going for a longer stay, the only inconvenience is a lack of washing machine. The apartment is on 12th floor, but the windows exit to a street. For me, who is used to live in a very calm neighbourhood, it was a bit noisy during the early nights (until 1 am, there are few busy restaurants on the street level) and I used earplugs during the night. However, in comparison with overall noise levels in the city, I think the place should be considered as very calm (you practically do not hear neighbours with all windows closed).
All places suggested by Theresa sounded good, and I can reinforce Amir and Cervantes. Both were excellent! In the area you have also plenty of food shops, and there is fruit, vegetable and fish market on the parallel street (towards Ipanema) every Thursday.