You're likely to have seen this apartment before. I first featured Karen Maj Kornum's home back in 2015, and then again in 2017 and even included it in my book The Scandinavian Home (I'll never forget the day I spent there!!). The fact is, I could probably feature this home in ten year's time, and it would still feel relevant. So, what makes Karen's living space stand the test of time, while others feel distinctly out of date after a few years? I've compiled a list of 6 'timeless' lessons to learn from her stunning Frederiksberg home!
6 Ways To Create A Timeless Home - Scandinavian Style!
Thursday 1 October 2020
1. The neutral backdrop: Colours and wallpaper patterns come and go (think Laura Ashley in the 80's!), but white and off-white shades will never go out of style and serve as a perfect blank canvas with which to layer the home.
2. The statement piece: Look closely at the back wall and you'll see that it's a picture (or 'wallscape') rather than extra room (Karen picked it up at Bless in Berlin and feels sad that if she ever moves she won't be able to take it with her). Whether in the form of a one-off work of art, unique textiles or a piece of unusual furniture, adding something eye-catching like this will give your home its own distinct character while still maintaining its timeless vibe.
3. Make it personal: I love the idea that a home is never 'finished'. It might seem obvious, but it's so important to remember to take your time to layer a home over the years with pieces you've collected on your travels, things your children (or ancestors) have made, photographs and favourite books. Sure, you might like to add the odd on-trend accessory, but the bulk of the look should be truly unique and personal to you.
4. Mix it up: When I interviewed Karen about her home for my book, she said that she loves to blend styles and furniture from different eras. Look closely and you'll spot an entire blend of antiques, vintage finds and contemporary pieces - all of which help to give the interior longevity - and ensure your space doesn't lend itself to one particular era that could quickly become out of date.
5. Invest in timeless, iconic design pieces: Furniture that has been made by a reputable designer / craftsperson and made from good, solid natural materials can be maintained over time. If you opt for pieces with a simpler design, they'll blend into any room, while still adding a magical iconic touch.
6. Follow your heart: Sometimes this is easier said than done (trust me, I often feel blinded by trends, especially when I work in the industry!). The thing is, trends are designed to come and go - where as your natural sense of style will likely stay quite consistent over time (give or take - I mean, I wouldn't have a poster of Morten Harket (of A-Ha fame) on my wall these days - yep, clearly always been drawn to those Scandinavian men!)!
I have to add, I love trends and I notice some wonderful on-trend pieces in Karen's home too (like the Berber rugs) but if you truly want to create an easy-to-maintain timeless home - it's important to decorate the bulk of your home with pieces that you love simply because they hit a chord.
What do you think? Do you have any other suggestions about what makes a home timeless? If so, please do share in the comment section below!
If you love Karen's style as much as I do, check out her online shop (for the most beautiful rugs!) and see more of her interior styling work at Another Ballroom.
In other news, I'm excited to take you on an armchair journey to Norway tomorrow - and have some exciting news which will allow you to bring a little piece of Norway home. Intrigued? Stop by to find out!
Kram!
Niki
Photography: Home / styling: Karen Maj Kornum. Photography: Jonas Lundberg
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Every room was so beautiful !
ReplyDeleteI fully agree with the list above, but I would add a house with high ceilings, cornice and beautiful large windows!!
ReplyDeleteI mean, a house with such bones everything looks beautiful !! :):):)
The No. 1 "secret" for good looking, timeless homes is: get a house/room with large windows and extra-high ceilings ... a 500 years old interior design rule which is true till now. The same interior elements would look worse in a standard room ... It is the same principle with beautiful people, they can wear anything and still look good ...
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DeleteHey Niki, why wouldn't you have a poster of Morten Harket on your walls these days?! He seems to be like good wine: getting better with age. OK, the truth is I do not have any photos of him in my room now but I can remember every piece on my walls in the 80's. But he still looks great for sure.
ReplyDeletewooden furniture (matt, not reflective), especially when there's lots of it, makes a house feel timeless
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