There is a lot to like about this space.
PRO's: spacious studio with attention to detail put in the design including an exceptionally large walk-in closet and beautifully equipped large bathroom. The neighborhood is very quiet and peaceful, and the view, particularly at sunset is amazing (although the first photo of the skyline at night mispresents the actual view.) Yanea was super responsive and having access to the washer and dryer in the main part of the house was a big plus.
CON's: A few things that were more of an annoyance than anything and "cheapened" the experience. The sponge for the kitchen was at the end of its useful "life" and had to be housing all kinds of fun bacteria. Provide a clean one or a clean dish towel instead. There were no kitchen towels do dry dishes and only one roll of paper towels that was about 75% gone. While there were plenty of large bath towels there was only one wash cloth and one hand towel provided. Toilet paper provided for two days, which was a problem at one point. So much for that one washcloth!
I know these are super picky things that you could easily prepare for by throwing a few extras in your suitcase, but they cheapened the impact of this great space. I would absolutely come back here if it were not for some security concerns. Keep in mind that my lens is different than most as I have over 30 years in underwriting insurance for businesses including rental units such as this.
My concerns:
1. lock box where the code doesn't change, and a physical key is how you gain access to the unit. I know they are very common in the AirBnb world, but when was the last time you checked into a hotel that uses a physical key instead of an electronic lock or card access? Most hotels got rid of them due to security concerns. Keys can easily be duplicated, or the key box accessed when not occupied and prior guests can gain unauthorized access. An electronic lock where the owner can grant and delete access by the user is a better option. This is not a knock on the host as she is providing what is typically seen in an Airbnb.
2. There is a door in the kitchen area of this unit that provides access to the main dwelling area where the host lives and where at least one bedroom is rented out. The door provides easy access to the washer and dryer which was awesome. However, the ability to lock and unlock the door was only on the main dwelling side so that anyone staying in the main dwelling could access the penthouse unit at any time. It seems there should be two doors with each side able to lock/unlock their respective door.
3. The window coverings are cheap plastic "blinds" that you must roll up and secure with a hook. The blinds do nothing from a privacy standpoint, and they barely reduce the light coming into the unit. They are useless and you have to be comfortable with the idea that someone could walk into the backyard or go up the steps to the landing and see you in bed. The unit is in the back of the house so this is unlikely but I wanted to make you aware.