Fall in love with Lisa's calming Swedish home

Hej kompisar! I hope you had a lovely Easter break – and that the sun is shining for you like it is here in Sweden (despite the tail end of Storm David, which we could probably do without!). While the storm might be raging outside, inside Lisa's Swedish home, it's an entirely different story – it's as calm as can be.

Soft, nature-inspired tones wrap around each space, with muted greens, warm woods and creamy whites creating a quiet kind of harmony that feels grounding. The kitchen, in particular, draws you in – can you imagine starting your morning here, coffee in hand, sunlight catching the glass jars and simple ceramics on the shelves? Nothing feels forced or over-styled, and that’s exactly the beauty of it. 

And then there are all those little corners… a traditional Swedish bench with striped cushions, a softly lit dining table with a Le Klint lamp overhead and the candles flickering in the bathroom. Wait, is that TWO baths side by side? We actually just got rid of our bath - but this is making me wish we hadn't!

All in all, there’s something so inspiring about how effortlessly this home balances function and feeling, simplicity and warmth. The perfect tour to start the week after the holidays. Step this way! 

So calming, don’t you think? I’d love to hear the story behind those two bathtubs – I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anything like this indoors. Have you? My sister and I would have loved this when we were little.

It actually reminded me of the most unusual bath setting I’ve ever come across – a little varmbadhus (warm bath house) in the fishing village where we have our summer cottage. Sadly the establishment burnt down a few years ago, but it was such a beautiful old place. Each room had a clawfoot tub filled with seaweed, and you’d be gently scrubbed with it, leaving your skin feeling incredibly silky smooth. Have you ever tried a seaweed bath?

I also love the soothing greens running throughout Lisa’s home – they bring everything together so effortlessly and add to that sense of calm. 

Here’s a little aside: this doesn’t happen very often (thankfully!), but while putting this post together, I started to recognise a few of the rooms… and realised I’ve actually featured Lisa’s home before (I didn't notice at first since she has changed her instagram handle), many moons ago! Even so, since I'd started, and Lisa's made quite a few inspiring changes, I couldn’t resist sharing it again – some homes are simply too lovely not to revisit. I hope you feel the same! 

Wishing you a happy mid-week! 

Niki

Photography by @lisasarkiv, shared with kind permission. 

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Jessica's Beautiful Nature Inspired Swedish Home

Jessica Berglund describes herself as a photographer, visual storyteller, knitter, potter, and mother, and you can see hints of all of these throughout her beautiful country home in Ulricehamn, Sweden. What she doesn’t explicitly say, though, is that nature inspires everything she turns her hand to.

From strawberry-themed ceramics and home-baked bread delicately decorated with flowers, to botanical wallpaper, fresh and dried flowers and subtle touches of green paint throughout the house, her connection to the natural world is everywhere. 

Keep a special eye out for the gentle hints of Easter, spotted in the daffodils just beginning to bloom here, even if these ones are charmingly made from paper, and the “semlor”: traditional Swedish soft cardamom-spiced buns filled with almond paste and whipped cream, typically enjoyed in the lead-up to Lent. They are so delicious! I am looking forward to enjoying some myself in the next few days.

And of course, you might catch a glimpse of their dog, Flora, and their fabulous cat, both of whom look completely at home in Jessica's cosy home. 

Välkommen in! 

Beautiful! I absolutely love homes inspired by nature, which is perhaps no surprise since I wrote an entire book about it!

I also found myself completely in awe of the arched cabinetry. It has such a soft, handcrafted feel to it, and I can’t help but wonder if it might have been a DIY project. Are you a fan too? 

There is so much to take in, but what really stood out to me was the way every detail feels intentional yet effortless. Jessica’s home manages to be both creative and calming at the same time, which is no easy balance to strike.

Is there anything that stood out to you in particular? 

On another note...

Here in Sweden, the sun is shining today and we are up at our little cabin. My mother arrives from London tomorrow and we are hoping to enjoy some simple traditions together, including the “konstrundan”. This is a much-loved Swedish Easter tradition where local artists open up their studios and homes to visitors. You can wander from place to place, discovering artwork, meeting the creators, and enjoying the spring atmosphere. It is such a lovely way to celebrate creativity and the spring sunshine (although the weather forecast might say otherwise!). 

Since I am running out of time this week, this will sadly need to be my only post. However, I will leave you with some pretty Easter decorating ideas in case you feel like adding a few Scandinavian “påsk” touches to your home:

Swedish easter traditions including feathers and hags
Pretty and fun easter decoration ideas
8 pretty Easter decorating ideas 

If you'd like to give the semla buns a go - you can find a recipe here.

And there's so much more Easter inspiration in the archives here!

Glad Påsk! See you next week!

Niki

Photography by Jessica Berglund / @fruohlson

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11 Dreamy Airbnbs in Sweden and Denmark for a Summer Escape

 

Spring is here, and along with the wood anemones, a flurry of emails has started to land in my inbox asking for Airbnb recommendations in Sweden and Denmark. Before the real deluge begins, I thought it would be nice to gather some of my favourites here in one place, many of which you might well recognise from the blog.

From city hideouts and tiny seaside cabins to country pool villas and idyllic island getaways, there’s something for everyone to check into and unwind this summer. And even if you’re not planning a trip, there’s plenty of inspiration to be found in the different styles and settings too!

Simply click on each link to explore the full tour here on the blog. You’ll also find links to book each Airbnb from there.

Ready to explore? Let's kick off with.....

Denmark

A short hop over the bridge from where I live, I visit Copenhagen every Wednesday and it never fails to inspire me. This place looks like the perfect crashpad from which to explore! 

Calling all lovers of design - this apartment in the heart of Copenhagen is a dream. The only problem is, you wouldn't want to leave! 

One of my most viewed posts ever, this little waterside cabin on Zealand, Denmark is the perfect place to unwind with a book! 

If you're feeling intrepid, why not make your way to the Danish island of Anholt and make this little cabin your home for the week? It's the perfect place from which to relax on a white sandy beach or pull up a seat in a boho-style restaurant in the harbour and tap along to live music! 

Sweden

Live like Pippi Longstocking and getaway from it all at this traditional-style country Swedish cottage. 

Go for a quirky, laidback stay at this wonderful, creative stay in Skåne, southern sweden. 

The area of Österlen in south Sweden is popular among artists and comes to life in summer with artisan bakeries, cosy restaurants, galleries and live music - and this is a charming base! 

Escape to the magical island of Gotland this summer and stay in this limestone barn. 

Gotland is famous for it's rugged coastline and beautiful nature - which you'd experience firsthand at this cosy little beach front cabin. 

Connected to the mainland via a bridge, the island of Öland is a summer destination for the Swedish royal family. The palace might not be available on airbnb, but this charming stone cutter's cottage complete with pool is also a wonderful option! 

If you're visiting Stockholm it would be a real pity not to enjoy a few days in the stunning archipelego. I vote for this stay on the island of Dalarö (wait till you see the inside!). 

They are all charming in their own way, and I’m pretty sure you’d have a wonderful stay at any one of them. But did any catch your eye in particular?

Have you visited Sweden or Denmark in the past? If so, do you have a favourite place? Perhaps you even have a favourite Airbnb you would recommend. If so, please do share below.

That's it from me this week. Thank you so much for stopping by, and for all your comments. I can’t wait to find a quiet moment with a coffee this weekend and respond to them all.

Niki

Images courtesy of Airbnb, with thanks.

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A Stockholm Home with a Very Pretty Hint of Blush

Are you up for a little blush today? It seems to be a popular colour of late, and I’m completely here for it.

Set within an Art Nouveau building dating back to 1905, this Stockholm apartment is a beautiful example of how to blend softness with character. A palette of green, blush, and warm neutrals runs throughout, with subtle touches of deeper rust tones adding just the right amount of contrast and depth.

The living area feels instantly inviting after a long day, thanks to the oversized neutral sofa, layered with textured cushions and a big chunky knit blanket. And I’m really loving the mix of materials here, boucle, woven fabrics, and wool, all working together to create that cosy, lived-in feel.

Just beyond, the kitchen introduces a gentle hit of blush through glossy tiled walls (so good!), which bounce light around the room beautifully. I like how it's been paired with muted green accents seen in the lighting and plants, as well as the window frames. Despite its modern feel, there’s also a lovely sense of tradition here (note the classic grey cabinetry and row of copper pans), which keeps everything in harmony with the building’s heritage.

Down the hall, you’ll find a master bedroom, guest room, and children’s room, all featuring some seriously fun paintwork. I’m so curious to hear your thoughts on the colour-drenched room — it’s not something I’d personally go for, but I love how bold and daring it is!! Sometimes it's fun to go all out, don't you think? 

Let’s take a little peek…

Some very cool use of colour here, don't you think? But to be honest, what i loved the most was the view of the sofa with the kitchen behind and the beautiful hallway with its soft arches and hint of colour seen through the bedroom doors.

I'd love to hear what stood out most to you about this Stockholm home! 

It's so interesting how pink has shown up in interiors over the years. Here are a few fun examples: 

2017 trend - pinks big comeback

A rose tinted Swedish home
A cool yet calm rose-tinted French home
Hygge and pops of colour (including pink) in a danish home

Are you a fan of pink? I've always been partial to a touch of pale pink here and there!

Have a happy mid-week!

Niki

Photography courtesy of Historiska Hem, with thanks.

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