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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A Light-Filled Venice Canal Home with a Hint of Spring

Friday calls for something a little special, don’t you think? This home stopped me mid-scroll. At first glance, it leans into that familiar Scandinavian language, all that white, the soaring ceilings, the light pouring in from every angle, but look a little closer and it begins to feel like something else entirely. Located on the Venice Canal in LA, there is a warmth and looseness to it that softens all that brightness.

It is the home of jewellery designer Irene Neuwirth, who worked with her friend, interior designer Sarah Shetter, to create a space that feels relaxed and personal. 

What I love most is the way they have softened the architecture. The bones are crisp and bright, but instead of keeping everything restrained, they have layered in pattern, texture and colour in a way that feels instinctive, laidback and summery rather than styled. The green floral sofa (upholstered in Lotus Garden) sets the tone, it's a little unexpected, a little nostalgic and very lovely! The rest of the decor follows in this vain with wallpapers, vintage wood pieces, woven textures and plenty of art. Books are piled high, shelves are filled with objects that feel like they have been gathered over time, and even the kitchen, with its ladder and long communal table, feels like a place to linger.

It is this balance that draws me in. Ready to see more? 

Beautiful!

I am still drooling over those first two images. It is amazing how the sofa seems to pull the greenery in from outside, almost blurring the line between indoors and out, and it brings such an easy, summery feel to the whole space. I also love the subtle touches of blush dotted throughout, just enough to soften everything and add a quiet warmth.

All in all, a beautiful home that makes me feel like summer is on the way!

Did you enjoy this tour too? Are you a fan of floral textiles and wallpaper? Could you imagine having a sofa like this? So many questions! 

Right friends, it's Friday, the sun is shining and my family are slowly drifting home from their various corners of town. Time to enjoy the weekend.

I hope you have a trevlig helg!

Niki

Photography courtesy of Jenna Cooper LA, where this house is for sale - found via Nordroom, with thanks.

 

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