At the tail end of living in Rio, I found this treasure last minute when Covid-19 forced borders to close and I had to cancel my trip to Argentina. This small – but spacious – cozy nest, with its high ceilings and tall windows, packed a real punch and served as my Corona makeshift base camp and the perfect place to quarantine. Its architectural design lended the space to “hygge” and practice optimal well-being. If you liked the comforts of and building forts as a child, you will fall in love with this light-industrial bi-level loft.
With sun streaming in all day from the North (part of the southern hemisphere’s sun path) and West – and views of Lapa, Central landmarks, and Santa Teresa, which you can take in from either relaxing tucked away in the large sitting area or cooking a proper and full meal in the modern, quasi Chef’s kitchen – the space gives you a steady dose of calm and relaxing vibes.
Working remotely felt effortless with dependable wi-fi, multiple outlets to fully plug in (even two outlets above the bed), and a large and sturdy workstation. The sleeping loft, accessible by a cool wrought iron fire escape ladder, is snug but resonant. The firm, lump-free bed provided the best comfort for some deep slumbering, and ample closet space and drawers allowed me to store items out of sight for clutter-free living. And although I consider myself a very(!!) laid-back traveler, I felt immense joy and relief as I stepped into the large shower and piping hot water washed over me.
When I had to break quarantine, a quick stroll down the hill led me to everything that I needed to restock for extended refuge: multiple grocers, hortifruitis, health food stores, a bakery, pharmacies, and street vendors to fill any missing accoutrements – like the teapot with an internal strainer I found for 10 reais. (Post-Corona travelers: Bars and restaurants litter this main street (as well as multiple bus lines), and you can find Lapa’s notorious nightlife hotspot at your fingertips 7 minutes downstream.)
In such an uncertain and chaotic time, the neighborhood, all of the conveniences, the safe and friendly community (the loft sits within a small gated confine), and the most comfortable and well-equipped lair that I could ever ask for eased my anxiety and assuaged my fear so much that I decided to stay put and extend my stay for a few months!
Fabio is absolutely amazing and I couldn’t ask for a better host!
[Other highlights: wood floors, an air conditioner that purrs, two large screen televisions, and cleaning services (if needed)]