Living in a 275-square-foot micro-studio apartment in New York City

Scott Elyanow, who is a real estate agent, says he wouldn’t be able to live in such a small apartment if it weren’t for the two windows overlooking a garden. It’s possible for him to comfortably host parties with up to 12 people, he says. He uses fold-up chairs kept in the building hallway.   (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Scott Elyanow works in the kitchen, which has tightly packed shelves resembling a tiny, overstuffed grocery store.   (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

The 42-year-old Elyanow takes care of some business at his desk. “I have plenty of space to do yoga, stretch and exercise,” said Elyanow, whose furniture is arranged to leave the center of his living room clear.   (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Mirrors give the illusion of more space. Despite the tight quarters, Elyanow, a renter, says he is happy with his 275-square-foot place. “If my apartment ever came up for sale, I would absolutely buy it.”   (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)