Ten years prior, author Emma Copley Eisenberg acquired a 1,100-square-foot row house in Philadelphia that required extensive renovations. “I joke — it’s not a joke — that the renovation took five years off my life,” she comments. Her partner Art Phùng joined her five years later, and together they selected paint colors and blended their tastes. Here’s a glimpse into their vibrant home, featuring cameos from their three feline companions…
LIVING ROOM
Sofa: Joybird.
On a delightful fixer-upper: Emma: During our house search in 2015, I was on a limited budget but looking for a place with original characteristics. Although this house required considerable work, I was drawn to the front window, the mantle, and the staircase. The floor was obscured by strange vinyl tiles (beautiful hardwood parquet floors were concealed beneath). In the upstairs closet, a child had scrawled a poem in purple crayon! The house, as my father would express, had soul.
On a relationship-saving couch: Emma: When Art moved in, I had a singular, forlorn couch, leading to good-natured disputes over who got to sit on it and how sprawled out they could be, particularly with three cats. A couple of years back, we determined that the situation was unsustainable if we wanted to maintain our love. We required a couch that wouldn’t be ruined by our cats and where we could both stretch out. Enter a Joybird sectional sofa in performance velvet.
Paint: 36 Hours in Marrakesh from Backdrop. Top middle and right drawings: by their friend Elissa Martel. Cat portrait by their friend Steve Teare. Quotations from Toni Morrison and Ocean Vuong: by their friend Jacqueline Alnes. Tiger print, by Reesa Bobeesa. Throw pillows: Ikea and Ikea.
On cherished pets: Art: Before I met Emma, I regarded myself as more of a dog enthusiast. But now I’m undeniably a capital-C Cat Dad.
Cat portrait: by Emma. E decor: vintage. Flag print: by William N. Copley, Emma’s grandfather. Floor lamp: Ikea.
On soothing rituals: Emma: In our home, Friday nights mean preparing guacamole, taking an edible, and enjoying a comedy special. Moses Storm’s Trash White and Atsuko Okatsuka’s The Intruder are iconic favorites. Additionally, any performance by comedians Naomi Ekperigin or Sabrina Wu.
On inspirational figures: Emma: The Grace Paley cutout was part of our wedding table decor. I printed images of various authors, then adhered them to glittery wooden pieces. We had 16, and after the wedding, we preserved Grace Paley, James Baldwin, and Carson McCullers. They serve as the patron saints of our home.
On blending aesthetics: Emma: I lean more towards old-musty-books-and-American-Girl-doll-Victorian, whereas Art has a preference for a cleaner, sleeker, more modern style.
Art: It was enjoyable for us to find the midpoint.
On feline members of the family: Emma: That’s Tofu. The grey cat is Gabriel, and the black and white one is Sesame. Prior to our meeting, I had Gabriel, while Art had Tofu and Sesame. Upon combining our households, we unexpectedly ended up with two matching names and one that was different. People often say, ‘Tofu, Sesame…and Gabriel??’
DINING ROOM
Paint: Harvest Moon and Tanlines from Backdrop. Chairs: Article. Shelving unit: custom, similar. Pendant light: similar.
On culinary gatherings: Art: I enjoy hosting hot pot nights. We’ll set up a portable hot pot on the dining table and invite friends to bring their favorite ingredients. I always prepare one side of the pot with spicy broth and the other side mild. Enoki mushrooms, tofu skins, and Napa cabbage are favorites. The most intricate part is preparing the sauces, but I simply show people how to make them.
Print of takeout container with flowers: Natasha Martin. Cat artwork: Steve Teare.
On practical shelves: Emma: Philadelphia row houses are notoriously narrow — we don’t even have one closet on our first floor! We wanted a genuine dining table and required storage in the dining room, so we installed these shelves.
Art: It’s lovely to have a space where we can display all our little treasures.
White pitcher and black and white splatter seder plate: by Emma. Floral ceramic tray: “by my ceramics instructor, Corinna Cowles.” Cookie jar: from Emma’s childhood home.
On playful pastimes: Emma: This cat-shaped cookie jar — named Gertrude — originated in my childhood home. Not many cookies resided in Gertrude when I was younger, but we envision always keeping her filled. I’ve been engaged in ceramics since high school, and I returned to it this year at my local studio. I appreciate doing something creative that I don’t need to excel at. It’s also physical, and strong thighs are beneficial!
On a wedding keepsake: Art: Our wedding was such a celebratory occasion. Every guest signed this document, which essentially pledges their support for our relationship. When I gaze at this wall, I remember the love I share with Emma and the love our community expresses for us.
KITCHEN
Paint: Pablo Honey from Backdrop. Teapots: Art’s array, including family heirlooms and one from Colorama. Stools: Overstock.
On paint selection: Art: I was open to reviewing every single shade of a color to choose one because I’m a designer. But Emma discovered Backdrop. Since they have curated complementary colors, we decided to source all our wall paint from them. Row houses can be somewhat dim inside, so we opted for warm tones downstairs to illuminate the space.
On tea rituals: Art: I kickstart my day with caffeinated tea. In the afternoon, we enjoy a tea break together as a pick-me-up. Then in the evening, if we have guests for dinner, we serve herbal tea in the living room as a nightcap.
BEDROOM
Paint: Drive-Thru Safari from Backdrop. Macrame wall hanging: Twine and Twig. Bed: CB2, similar. Wooden nightstand: Ikea.
On energy transformations: Emma: We’re currently trying not to purchase anything new for our house, focusing instead on items that alter the energy of the space, like dried branches. We make candles at home using tutorials from the candle creators on TikTok. It’s an easy way to repurpose empty household containers.
EMMA’S OFFICE
Paint: 36 Hours in Marrakesh from Backdrop. Chaise: Ikea. Desk: Fezibo. Heart lamp: IKEA.
On heartfelt writing: Emma: I frequently advise my writing students to gravitate towards whatever sparks their curiosity or obsession, anything that feels alive. In some respects, the less traditionally ‘worthy’ the subject, the better.
On affordable art: Emma: “I delved into collage during Season 1 of the pandemic as a coping mechanism and because all the supplies were readily available at home. I still cherish it.”
EXTERIOR
On literary community: Emma: I installed a Little Free Library in front of the house in 2016, acknowledging that public libraries in Philly have been struggling with hours and staffing, and many public schools in Philly lack libraries. The neighborhood children painted it alongside me.
Thank you so much for sharing your loving and inviting home with us, Art and Emma!
P.S. More home tours await, along with Emma’s weekly outfit details.
(Photos by Jillian Guyette for Cup of Jo.)
Title: A Colorful Haven: Discovering a Philadelphia Home with Lively Decor, Three Cats, and a Herbal Tea Corner
Situated in the core of Philadelphia, a distinctive home stands apart due to its lively decor, feline friends, and a dedicated herbal tea corner, presenting a cozy escape from the city’s lively hustle. This residence embodies the homeowner’s diverse tastes and affection for comfort, crafting a space that is both visually thrilling and comforting.
**Lively Decor: A Visual Delight**
Upon stepping into the home, visitors are instantly met with a burst of colors. The walls are embellished with striking, artistic murals and a blend of modern and vintage artwork. Each area represents a meticulously curated explosion of shades, with furniture and accessories that span from deep, rich jewel tones to bright, cheerful pastels. Textiles are vital to the decor, featuring plush, patterned rugs and a variety of throw pillows that introduce texture and warmth to the environment.
The living room acts as the home’s heart, highlighting a stunning teal velvet sofa paired with a mustard yellow armchair, creating an engaging contrast. The homeowner’s passion for art is evident in the gallery wall, which displays a variety of paintings, photographs, and prints accumulated over time. Indoor plants are strategically distributed throughout, infusing a hint of nature and enhancing the vibrant ambiance.
**Feline Friends: The Three Cats**
Residing in this colorful abode are three delightful cats, each possessing a unique personality. These feline friends not only enliven the home but also enhance its charm. The cats, named Luna, Jasper, and Willow, are often seen relaxing on the sunlit window sills or playfully darting through the hallways.
The homeowner has carefully considered the cats’ needs within the decor. Stylish cat trees and scratching posts blend effortlessly with the furnishings, while cozy nooks and crannies offer perfect retreats for the cats. The presence of these beloved animals contributes warmth and companionship, rendering the home distinctly lived-in and cherished.
**Herbal Tea Corner: A Space of Serenity**
In a tranquil nook of the kitchen, the herbal tea corner stands as a refuge for unwinding and contemplation. This dedicated area embodies the homeowner’s passion for herbal teas and their faith in the soothing effects of a warm cup. The corner showcases an impressive variety of loose-leaf teas, meticulously arranged in glass jars, each labeled with its distinct blend and advantages.
A vintage wooden cabinet houses a diverse selection of teapots, cups, and accessories, while a compact electric kettle ensures hot water is always on hand. The herbal tea corner is not merely a practical space but also an aesthetic one, with rustic charm and thoughtful organization encouraging guests to pause and enjoy a moment of calm.
**Conclusion: A Home that Mirrors Identity**
This Philadelphia residence is a vibrant collage of color, comfort, and companionship. The intersection of eclectic decor, the presence of three delightful cats, and the serene herbal tea corner creates a harmonious atmosphere reflecting the homeowner’s character and passions. It is a space that encourages creativity, relaxation, and a profound appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Whether entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon with a book and a cup of tea, this home is a genuine refuge in the city.
