The Iconic Purple Door: A Deep Dive into Monica's Apartment from Friends
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The Iconic Purple Door: A Deep Dive into Monica's Apartment from Friends
An Introduction to a Pop Culture Landmark
Let's be brutally honest for a second, shall we? When we talk about Friends, we're not just talking about a TV show. We're talking about a cultural phenomenon, a comfort blanket woven into the fabric of our collective consciousness, a series that, for many of us, shaped our understanding of friendship, adulthood, and navigating the absolute chaos that is your twenties and thirties. And at the very heart of this phenomenon, beating like a vibrant, slightly eccentric drum, is Monica Geller’s apartment. It’s more than just four walls and a ceiling; it’s a character in its own right, a silent, steadfast witness to every laugh, every tear, every "we were on a break!" argument, and every single moment of profound, messy, beautiful connection that defined a generation. For those of us who grew up with the show, or even discovered it later through streaming, this apartment isn't just a set; it's a nostalgic portal, a place we feel we've visited countless times, a home away from home we never actually lived in but understand intimately. It’s a design marvel, an emotional anchor, and undeniably, one of the most recognizable and beloved spaces in television history.
Think about it: how many times have you scrolled through social media and instantly recognized a recreated detail, a splash of purple, a specific arrangement of furniture, and known precisely where it came from? The apartment’s enduring appeal lies in this immediate recognition, this almost visceral connection we have to it. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s an active participant in the narrative, a space that evolved and adapted alongside its inhabitants, yet always maintained its core identity. From the very first episode, when Rachel Green burst through that iconic purple door in a soaking wet wedding dress, to the bittersweet finale, as the keys were left on the counter, this apartment has been the central nervous system of Friends. It’s where life happened, where dreams were forged, where comfort was found, and where the often-awkward dance of growing up played out in real-time, albeit with a laugh track. It’s a testament to brilliant set design and storytelling that a fictional space can evoke such strong feelings of warmth, familiarity, and longing in millions of people worldwide. We don't just see the apartment; we feel it, almost as if we could walk in, grab a mug, and join the gang for coffee, or perhaps, a dangerously competitive game of Pictionary. This space, with its quirky charm and lived-in feel, became the aspirational ideal of what a New York City apartment could be for a group of young adults, even if, let's be honest, the reality of affording such a place on their various salaries was always a charmingly unrealistic fantasy.
More Than Just a Set: The Apartment's Enduring Appeal
Let's strip away the layers of Hollywood magic for a moment and look at what truly makes Monica's apartment resonate so deeply. It transcends its physical dimensions, morphing from a mere collection of props and walls into a potent symbol of friendship, stability, and the pursuit of dreams in the chaotic landscape of urban living. This isn't just some generic sitcom set; it’s a character in its own right, silently observing, subtly influencing, and constantly reflecting the lives unfolding within its vibrant, eclectic walls. We’ve watched countless TV shows, sure, but how many fictional spaces instantly conjure a feeling, a memory, or even a specific line of dialogue the way Monica’s apartment does? It’s not merely instantly recognizable; it’s iconic, a word I don't use lightly. Its status as a beloved landmark isn't accidental; it’s a testament to its brilliant design, its consistent presence, and its profound cultural impact.
The enduring appeal of this apartment stems from its ability to represent something deeply aspirational yet simultaneously relatable. Who among us hasn't dreamed of living in a sprawling, character-filled apartment in the heart of a vibrant city, surrounded by our best friends, navigating life's ups and downs with a constant support system just a few feet away? The apartment embodies this ideal. It’s a place where you always feel welcome, where there’s always an open chair, a listening ear, and probably some leftover lasagna. It became the ultimate "third place" – not home, not work, but a comfortable, informal space where community thrives. For a generation grappling with identity, career choices, and romantic entanglements, the apartment offered a blueprint for how adult friendships could look: messy, hilarious, occasionally infuriating, but ultimately unbreakable. It normalized the idea of chosen family, showing that your friends could be just as, if not more, important than your biological relatives. This emotional resonance is what truly elevates the apartment from a simple set to a pop culture landmark. It’s a beacon of connection, a reminder that even in the vast anonymity of a city like New York, you can carve out a warm, inviting space filled with the people who matter most. Its very existence on screen, episode after episode, solidified its place in our hearts as a symbol of belonging, a testament to the power of shared experiences, and a comforting constant in an ever-changing world.
Pro-Tip: The "Lived-In" Look
One of the secrets to the apartment's enduring appeal was the meticulous attention to detail in making it look genuinely lived-in. Set decorators didn't just place furniture; they added stacks of magazines, half-eaten boxes of cereal, personal photos, and quirky knick-knacks that hinted at a history beyond the screen. This created an authenticity that allowed viewers to suspend disbelief and truly feel like they were stepping into a real home, not just a stage. It’s a masterclass in environmental storytelling, where every prop tells a part of the characters' larger story.
Deconstructing the Layout: A Room-by-Room Tour
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks and really dissect this magnificent beast of an apartment. We're not just glancing at it; we're taking a full, immersive, room-by-room tour, peeling back the layers of paint, scrutinizing every piece of furniture, and truly appreciating the genius behind its design. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about understanding how the physical space dictated character interactions, enabled comedic timing, and became an extension of the personalities within it. From the moment you step through that iconic purple door, you're not just entering a set; you're stepping into a meticulously crafted universe designed for friendship, laughter, and the occasional, deeply embarrassing, life lesson. The layout itself, sprawling and open by New York standards, was a deliberate choice, allowing for multiple conversations, sightlines for the cameras, and the kind of fluid movement that made the apartment feel dynamic and alive. It allowed for simultaneous storylines to unfold, for characters to observe each other from a distance, and for those classic "walk-in" gags that are so integral to sitcom humor.
The sheer scale of the apartment, particularly for a New York City dwelling, is something that always makes me chuckle. A two-bedroom, two-bathroom (yes, technically there are two, though one is rarely seen) apartment with a balcony, an open-plan living room and kitchen, and that view, all for a rent-controlled price that would make any modern New Yorker weep with envy. It’s the ultimate urban fantasy. But beyond the fantasy, the practical design considerations were paramount. The set was built on a soundstage with the fourth wall removed, allowing for camera access, but the illusion of a complete apartment was flawlessly maintained. The flow from the living room to the kitchen, the hallway leading to the bedrooms – it all felt natural, organic, like a real home. Every angle, every sightline, every piece of furniture was placed with intention, serving both the narrative and the comedic needs of the show. We often take these things for granted when we're lost in the story, but the craft behind creating such a functional and beloved space is truly astounding. It’s a masterclass in set design, proving that the environment itself can be a powerful storytelling tool, subtly shaping our perception of the characters and their world.
The Living Room: Center of Friendship and Chaos
Ah, the living room. Where do you even begin with the living room? This isn’t just a room; it’s the stage, the arena, the beating heart of Monica’s apartment and, by extension, the entire Friends universe. From the moment you step inside (or, you know, watch an episode), your eyes are immediately drawn to that oversized, wonderfully mismatched orange couch, perched proudly in front of the window. It’s not just a piece of furniture; it’s practically a landmark in its own right, a silent witness to countless pivotal moments. Think about it: how many deep conversations, tearful confessions, uproarious arguments, and spontaneous dance parties unfolded right there? It's where Phoebe sang "Smelly Cat," where Joey practiced his acting, where Chandler delivered his dry wit, and where Ross often spiraled into existential crises. The seating arrangement itself, with the couch, the armchair, and the various ottomans and chairs, was designed for intimacy, forcing the characters into close proximity, fostering that sense of shared space and shared lives.
Beyond the couch, those large windows are another defining feature, not just letting in light (or simulating it, given it’s a set), but offering a tantalizing glimpse of the quintessential Greenwich Village streetscape outside. This connection to the "outside world" was crucial, grounding the apartment in a believable urban setting, even if the actual view was a fabricated backdrop. The general atmosphere of the living room was one of cozy clutter, an organized chaos that perfectly mirrored Monica's personality (or her attempts to control the chaos of her friends). There were always books, magazines, quirky lamps, and an ever-changing array of knick-knacks that made the space feel genuinely lived-in and personal. It wasn't sterile or overly designed; it felt like a home that had accumulated memories and treasures over years. The bay window seat, often occupied by one of the gang, added another layer of charm and provided a slightly removed vantage point for observation or quiet contemplation, or perhaps just a good spot for a nap after a particularly long shift at Central Perk. This room wasn't just where they hung out; it's where they lived, where their individual stories intertwined and became the collective narrative we all adore. It's impossible to imagine the show without this vibrant, comforting, and utterly iconic space.
Insider Note: The Orange Couch's Origin
The famous orange couch wasn't a custom-made prop. Lore has it that it was discovered by a set dresser in the basement of the Warner Bros. studio lot and was originally intended for a different project. Its slightly worn, velvet texture and unique color immediately caught the eye of the Friends creative team, who saw it as the perfect anchor for Monica's eclectic living room. It's a testament to finding treasure in unexpected places!
The Kitchen: Heart of the Home (and Culinary Adventures)
If the living room was the stage for grand declarations and group antics, the kitchen was undeniably the true heart of Monica’s apartment, a space where nourishment, both physical and emotional, was constantly prepared and shared. Step into that kitchen, and your eyes are immediately drawn to those vibrant turquoise cabinets. They’re a bold, almost audacious choice for a kitchen, but they work. Oh, do they work. They scream "Monica Geller": confident, a little quirky, and utterly unforgettable. These cabinets, often adorned with handwritten notes, magnets, and children’s drawings (especially after Emma arrived), weren’t just for storage; they were a canvas for the ongoing narrative of the friends’ lives. The open shelving, too, was a stroke of genius, displaying Monica’s collection of mismatched mugs, plates, and bowls, hinting at a life full of thrift store finds and cherished gifts, making the space feel incredibly personal and inviting.
This kitchen wasn't merely a functional area; it was a central hub, a vortex of character interactions. The large, often cluttered, kitchen table, surrounded by an eclectic mix of chairs, was the site of countless breakfasts, late-night talks, and, of course, Monica's legendary Thanksgiving dinners. It’s where Joey famously ate entire pizzas, where Phoebe brewed her herbal teas, where Rachel learned (or attempted to learn) to cook, and where Chandler often sought refuge from the chaos of the living room, only to find himself embroiled in a new culinary crisis. Monica’s passion for cooking wasn’t just a character trait; it was woven into the very fabric of the kitchen’s design. From the array of pots and pans hanging above the stove to the meticulously organized spice rack (which we rarely saw up close but knew had to be there), every detail reinforced her identity as the group's resident chef and hostess. It was a place of comfort, of delicious aromas, and of endless opportunities for bonding. Even the refrigerator, often plastered with magnets and photos, felt like a living document of their shared history. It's a space that, despite its quirks, felt utterly practical and relentlessly warm, embodying the spirit of communal living and the simple joy of sharing a meal with the people you love most.
The Bedrooms: Private Sanctuaries (and Occasional Guest Rooms)
Venturing beyond the communal hustle and bustle of the living room and kitchen, we find ourselves in the more private, yet equally revealing, spaces of the bedrooms. These rooms, though less frequently seen in their entirety, offered intimate glimpses into the characters' inner worlds and their evolving personalities. First, there's Monica's meticulous room. You just know it's Monica's. Even if the camera only afforded us a quick peek, you could practically feel the crispness of the sheets, the precise alignment of her shoes, the color-coded organization of her closet. Her bedroom was a direct extension of her character: neat, ordered, and a controlled sanctuary from the delightful chaos her friends often brought into the apartment. It was a place where she could retreat, recharge, and perhaps, reorganize her sock drawer for the sheer joy of it. The decor, while still eclectic, probably leaned a bit more towards classic comfort, reflecting her desire for stability and a sense of home. It was her personal haven, a testament to her need for a perfectly structured environment amidst the unpredictable lives of her chosen family.
Then, there's Rachel's room, which truly tells a story of evolution. When Rachel first moved in, fleeing her wedding and her privileged life, her bedroom was likely a reflection of her initial uncertainty and perhaps a touch of youthful, unrefined taste. Over the years, as she shed her "daddy's credit card" persona and blossomed into an independent career woman, her room subtly shifted. We saw glimpses of her fashion sensibilities influencing the decor, perhaps a more curated collection of accessories, reflecting her growing confidence and professional success. Her space evolved from a temporary refuge to a genuine home, reflecting her journey from a runaway bride to a self-sufficient individual. And let's not forget the occasional use of the third "bedroom" – a space that was often ambiguous, sometimes a storage room, sometimes a guest room, and famously, the site of the infamous "secret closet" that drove Monica to distraction. This room’s flexible nature mirrored the fluid living arrangements of the friends, accommodating temporary residents like Joey (briefly), and even serving as Emma's nursery later in the series. These bedrooms, despite their limited screen time, were crucial in establishing character depth, offering quiet contrast to the vibrant communal areas, and reminding us that even within the closest friendships, everyone needs their own personal space to grow and reflect.
The Bathroom: Functional, Yet Infrequently Seen
Now, let's talk about the apartment's bathroom. It's one of those spaces that, in any real home, sees a lot of action, but in the Friends universe, it largely remained a mysterious, almost mythical entity. Its appearances were brief, fleeting glimpses, often serving as a quick transition point or the location for a very specific, usually comedic, plot beat. We know it exists, of course – characters frequently announced they were "going to the bathroom" or emerged from it, looking refreshed or, more often, slightly disheveled. But unlike the living room or kitchen, which felt like extensions of the characters themselves, the bathroom primarily served a purely functional role, a necessary but largely unseen component of the apartment's overall layout. It was the backdrop for quick costume changes, nervous self-talks in the mirror, or perhaps a moment of privacy when the main living area became too crowded or chaotic.
Despite its minimal screen time, the bathroom's presence was essential for the apartment's authenticity. A New York City apartment of that size without a bathroom would be, well, simply unbelievable. While we didn't get a deep dive into its decor, one can imagine Monica's influence: sparkling clean, probably with neatly folded towels and a well-stocked supply of toiletries. It likely had a classic, tiled aesthetic, perhaps a nod to vintage New York apartments, but without the eccentric flair of the purple door or the turquoise cabinets. Moments in the bathroom often involved a character trying to escape a situation, like Chandler hiding from Janice, or a quick, private conversation. It was a space of necessity, a brief interlude from the relentless social dynamic of the main apartment. Its infrequent appearances actually added to its charm, making those rare glimpses feel special, almost like we were being let in on a secret. It highlighted the show's focus on interaction and dialogue in the communal spaces, relegating the truly private moments to the unseen, but acknowledged, confines of the bathroom. It’s a testament to the show's writing and direction that even a largely unseen room contributed to the overall sense of a fully realized, believable home.
Pro-Tip: Off-Screen Spaces
In sitcoms, not every room needs to be fully designed and frequently shown. The "off-screen" spaces like bathrooms, utility closets, or even the unseen parts of bedrooms, serve to enhance the realism of the set. By acknowledging their existence without always showing them, the writers and set designers create a more believable world, allowing the audience's imagination to fill in the blanks, making the apartment feel larger and more complete than it actually is on a soundstage.
The Balcony: A Glimpse of the Outside World
The balcony, though small, was a surprisingly significant little nook in Monica's apartment, serving as a vital connection to the outside world and a stage for some truly memorable interactions. Perched just off the living room, it offered a brief respite from the apartment's interior, allowing characters to step out, breathe some "fresh" New York air, and gain a new perspective – both literally and figuratively. It wasn't a sprawling terrace, but rather a cozy ledge, often adorned with a plant or two, perfectly sized for one or two people to have a private conversation away from the prying ears of the others. This made it an ideal spot for whispered secrets, emotional confessions, or quiet moments of contemplation.
Beyond its role as a private conversational space, the balcony's most iconic function was undoubtedly its interaction with the mysterious "Ugly Naked Guy." For years, the gang peered out from that balcony, observing the various, often bizarre, activities of their unseen neighbor across the way. Whether it was his nude sunbathing, his elaborate Christmas decorations, or the infamous "poking device" used to check if he was still alive, the balcony served as their observation deck into his peculiar world. This running gag not only provided consistent comedic relief but also underscored the quirky, voyeuristic nature of city living, where close quarters often lead to unexpected glimpses into neighbors' lives. The balcony also saw its share of other animal interactions, from bird-watching (or rather, bird-feeding, much to Monica's chagrin) to being a temporary home for Ross's capuchin monkey, Marcel. It was a place where the unexpected could happen, where the urban environment intruded (or was invited) into their domestic bliss. Despite its modest size, the balcony was a testament to the thoughtful design of the apartment, adding another layer of realism and providing a dynamic space that facilitated both intimate character moments and some of the show's most enduring comedic bits. It was a small window, literally and figuratively, into the wider, weirder world of New York City, and a cherished part of Monica's iconic home.
The Purple Door: A Symbol of Welcome and Whimsy
And now, we arrive at the undisputed monarch of Monica's apartment: the purple door. This isn't just a door; it’s an emblem, a brand, a pop culture icon in its own right, instantly recognizable even to those who have only a passing familiarity with Friends. Its vibrant, almost audacious shade of lavender-purple isn't merely a decorative choice; it's a statement, a splash of whimsical defiance against the often drab and conventional hues of typical apartment buildings. The story goes that the set designers initially painted it blue, but felt it lacked personality. The purple was a bold pivot, and it paid off spectacularly, transforming a functional entry point into a symbol of the apartment's unique character and the creative spirit of its inhabitants. It beckons, it welcomes, it promises laughter and warmth within.
But the purple door isn't complete without its equally iconic companion: the yellow frame around the peephole. This delightful, seemingly random addition wasn't even planned. It was originally a picture frame that a crew member had left on the door, intended to be a mirror. When the glass broke, the frame was simply left there, and the creative team, with a stroke of genius, decided to keep it. This accidental inclusion became one of the most beloved and quirky details of the entire set, transforming a mundane peephole into a focal point, a little burst of sunshine against the rich purple. Together, the purple door and the yellow frame symbolize more than just entry; they represent the apartment's essence: a place of unconventional charm, open welcome, and unexpected joy. It's a visual metaphor for the friendships themselves – vibrant, a little off-kilter, but always inviting. It stands in stark contrast to the more conventional, often dark, door of Joey and Chandler's apartment across the hall, immediately establishing Monica's place as the central, more colorful hub of their social universe. Every time a character enters or exits through that door, it feels like a significant moment, a transition point between the external world and the safe, comforting haven within. It's a truly brilliant piece of set design, proving that sometimes, the simplest, most unexpected details can become the most enduring symbols.
Numbered List: Iconic Door Moments
The purple door witnessed countless memorable moments throughout the series. Here are just a few that highlight its narrative significance:
- Rachel's Grand Entrance: The very first scene of the pilot episode, with Rachel bursting through the door in her wedding dress, soaking wet and utterly lost. It set the tone for her entire journey.
- The "Key Drop": The bittersweet finale, where the keys are left on the counter, symbolizing the end of an era and the gang moving on from their shared home.
- Surprise Reveals: Countless times, characters would open the door to reveal a new love interest, a surprise visitor, or a delivery of something ridiculous (like a giant dog statue).
- Dramatic Exits: From Ross storming out after a fight to Rachel leaving for Paris, the door marked significant departures and emotional turning points.
- The "Knock-Knock" Gags: Joey's distinctive knock, often followed by Chandler's sarcastic replies, frequently involved the door as a crucial prop for their comedic timing.
The Apartment's Narrative Significance and Character Reflection
Beyond its vibrant aesthetics and meticulously crafted layout, Monica’s apartment held an even deeper power: its profound narrative significance and its uncanny ability to reflect the very essence of the characters who called it home. This wasn't just a static backdrop; it was a living, breathing entity that evolved with the plot, absorbed the emotional tremors of its inhabitants, and ultimately became an indelible part of their individual and collective stories. The apartment wasn't merely where things happened; it was often why they happened, influencing decisions, fostering connections, and providing a constant, stable presence in lives that were often anything but. It served as a silent narrator, its walls echoing with years of laughter, arguments, and profound personal growth. Every stain, every scratch, every piece of mismatched furniture told a story, hinting at the history and shared experiences that bound these six friends together.
The genius of the set design lay in its symbiotic relationship with the narrative. The open-plan layout encouraged interaction and accidental eavesdropping, fueling plotlines and comedic misunderstandings. The distinct character of each room subtly reinforced the personalities of its primary occupants. The apartment wasn't just a place they returned to at the end of the day; it was the crucible in which their friendships were forged, tested, and ultimately strengthened. It became the physical manifestation of their chosen family, a sanctuary from the outside world where they could truly be themselves, warts and all. Without this central hub, the very dynamic of Friends would have been fundamentally different, perhaps even impossible. The apartment provided the gravitational pull that kept them all together, a constant anchor in their often-turbulent lives. It's a powerful reminder that setting in storytelling isn't just about scenery; it's about creating an environment that actively participates in the narrative, shaping characters and driving the emotional core of the story forward.
A Safe Haven: The Emotional Core of the Show
If Friends had a heartbeat, it pulsed strongest within the walls of Monica's apartment. This wasn't just a place to crash; it was the ultimate safe haven, the emotional core of the entire show, a fortress of comfort and unwavering support in the often-unpredictable landscape of young adulthood. Think about it: every major life event, every crisis, every triumph, every heartbreak, all funneled back to this apartment. It was the default setting for celebrations, commiserations, and everything in between. When Rachel left Barry at the altar, where did she go? Monica’s. When Ross’s first marriage fell apart, where did he seek solace? Monica’s. When Phoebe faced challenges, when Chandler battled commitment issues, when Joey wrestled with career setbacks – the apartment was their constant, their unwavering anchor. It was the place where they could shed their masks, be vulnerable, and know they would be met with understanding, a hot meal (courtesy of Monica), and probably a sarcastic but loving remark from Chandler.
The apartment fostered an environment of unconditional acceptance, a rare and precious commodity in the real world. It was a space where judgment was minimal, and support was paramount. They shared secrets on that orange couch, celebrated milestones around that kitchen table, and picked each other up after countless falls. This sense of security wasn’t just physical; it was deeply emotional. It signified that no matter how chaotic their individual lives became, there was always a place, and a group of people, to return to. This collective sense of belonging, nurtured within these walls, transformed the apartment from a mere dwelling into a powerful symbol of chosen family. It taught us that "home" isn't necessarily a physical structure, but rather the people you share it with, and the emotional safety net they provide. The apartment, with its open door and inviting atmosphere, embodied this philosophy, standing as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the crucial need for a "safe haven" where one can truly belong. It’s why, even today, watching the show evokes such a strong sense of comfort and nostalgia – we’re not just revisiting a sitcom; we’re returning to a place that feels like home.
Monica's Personality Reflected: Order Amidst the Friends' Chaos
Monica Geller. The queen of clean, the czarina of order, the benevolent dictator of her impeccably organized domain. Her apartment isn't just a space she inhabits; it's a meticulously curated extension of her very being, a physical manifestation of her personality, particularly her almost pathological need for control and cleanliness. In a show often defined by the delightful, spontaneous chaos of six friends navigating life, Monica’s apartment stands as a shining beacon of order, a testament to her unwavering commitment to structure amidst the general mayhem. Every cushion on the orange couch seems strategically placed, every book on the shelf has its designated spot, and you just know those turquoise cabinets are organized with military precision, probably alphabetized or color-coded. This isn't just good housekeeping; it's a character trait writ large across the entire set.
Her apartment reflected Monica's desire to create a perfect, welcoming environment for her friends, even if that perfection often bordered on obsessive. She was the hostess, the provider, the one who ensured everyone was fed, comfortable, and had a clean place to sit. This maternal instinct, coupled with her competitive spirit, found its ultimate expression in her home. The apartment was always ready for guests, always spotless, always functional, even when her friends were making a mess, tracking in dirt, or rearranging her meticulously placed decorative gourds. It was her sanctuary, her canvas, and her subtle way of exerting control over a group of individuals who, let's be honest, were often quite messy and unpredictable. Her constant battle against the encroachment of disorder, whether it was Joey's crumbs, Phoebe's bohemian clutter, or Rachel's initial inability to manage her own belongings, was a running gag that rooted itself in the very fabric of the apartment's existence. The apartment, therefore, wasn't just a set; it was a character in itself, constantly reflecting Monica's anxieties, her triumphs, and her deep-seated need to create a stable, beautiful world, one perfectly vacuumed rug at a time. It’s a powerful example of how environmental design can so effectively communicate character without a single line of dialogue.
Rachel's Evolution: From Runaway Bride to Independent Woman
Rachel Green's journey is one of the most compelling arcs in Friends, and remarkably, her evolution from a pampered runaway bride to a fiercely independent, successful woman is partly, subtly, yet powerfully told through her living arrangements and her contributions to Monica's apartment. When she first bursts through that purple door, she's a fish out of water, completely reliant on her father's credit cards and Monica's generosity. Her initial presence in the apartment is one of a guest,
