Surf's Profile

I keep the ants away with clove oil. Nothing to sprinkle. It's invisible. It smells great. And no ant explosions needed.

Ikea, are you listening?

And while you're at it, could you please manufacture a really nice flat folding chair, something like these:

http://alturl.com/gxvoy
http://alturl.com/2egdi

How about some recommendations for closet lights? In my experience it's not so easy to find closet lights that are both bright enough and easy to install (remember us renters who need the battery operated ones).

One thing I neglected to mention in my earlier comment is that I live in New York City in a studio apartment. While not everyone here is in a studio, many are living in small spaces, which makes having house guests a far greater imposition here that it would be elsewhere. But I love having people come to stay. Late night conversations followed by morning coffee in your pajamas, that cements friendships. My dream is to some day have an apartment with a guest room!

MulchMaid, I'll add to what you said: Plan to give yourself a break from being a tour guide/host by declining to participate in some of the activities. The guests will understand that you need some time to yourself, and you'll feel much better about the whole thing. Part of the trick to this is being alert to your own need for time off. It's easy to talk yourself into doing too much because you don't want to miss an opportunity to be with the friend or to do something you wouldn't otherwise.

Wood blasphemy! Just change everything else.

I have Bo Concept sleeper that's no longer on their website, but here's a photo:
http://www.polyvore.com/boconcept_sleeper_sofa/thing?id=9233024

I think it's comfortable, and it's nice in a small space because it doesn't look heavy. Druzhok, I really like the one you have. Great functionality.

I really appreciate your graphic sensibility, which complements and accentuates those enviable windows. The black and white, the circle mirrors. And the stacks of books! A simple, graphic and attractive (if precarious) solution.

I chose Grege Avenue, but initially I liked Dill Pickle.

I really like the IQ light, which comes in pieces that can be arranged in a variety of shapes:

http://www.iqlight.com/

I bought some good quality knock-offs on eBay. And DIY instructions abound.