Every now and again a home really leaps out at me, and this is one of them. Organic, mature and calm, the one room studio apartment is a perfect oasis in the heart of Swede's capital - and even has a cosy balcony full of Autumn blooms on which to enjoy a morning coffee.
A mix of grainy woods, earthy 'unpolished' walls, coarse linen - the apartment might be void of bright colour, but it more than makes up for it in rich textures, all of which help the space to come alive.
Keep an eye out for items that help to add the 'hygge' (cosiness) - such as a Sjöstrand espresso maker (we have one of these in our cabin!), teapots, vintage mugs, and a retro stereo system. And of course, there's the blend of mid-century and antique furniture too.
So friends, pop the kettle on and curl up, there's plenty to feel inspired by in this beautiful Swedish studio apartment!
The paint work is lovely - neutral yet lively. There's a good article about different paint finishes and how to achieve them on House Beautiful in case you'd like to create something similar.
I forgot to mention in my previous small space post that many Swedish apartment blocks have storage in the basement which is perfect for storing out-of-season items. This one is no different. Even so, you can see in the last picture that it there is quite a lot of wardrobe space - and most likely space under the bed for clothes and other bits and bobs too.
One of the things that really caught my eye in this home were the retro headphones. My wonderful dad, who sadly passed away a couple of years ago, used to love music and spent most of his spare time browsing record shops or going to gigs (when he wasn't ferrying us!). He had a huge record collection which all my friends used to admire (his taste was so down with the kids). He also had a set of headphones just like this! It's funny how a single item can bring back so many memories. I guess it's still quite raw for me as I reflect with sadness - but a wise friend told me that one day I'll be able to look back at my memories of my Dad with a smile and I look forward to that. Sending a big virtual hug out to anyone else who has also lost someone special.
Did you spot anything in this apartment that you fell in love with or admire? As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts below!
Wishing you all a happy Wednesday,
Niki
Photography courtesy of Historiska Hem with thanks
Hi. Hey,I told a Swedish youtuber about you,and how he should contact you,to have you do a tour of his cute cabin.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds very interesting, I'm so curious! Which YouTuber is it? I hope they get in contact.
DeleteThe rich textures of wood, fabric and wall plaster really give this small space a lot of character—love it!
ReplyDeleteI am so happy you enjoyed the textures in this home, they are indeed beautiful!
DeleteAgree, the wood especially gives it a very warm feeling. And I love the terrace!
ReplyDeleteAh yes, the little terrace is so lovely!
DeleteI am personally not a big fan of browns and beiges so I thought that perhaps I would not enjoy this apartment so much. I was surprised to be drawn in by the lovely textures and the sense of tranquility the decor brought to me. It is a lovely apartment!! The cozy little balcony is perfection! I just love the little settes and pillows. I do have a question though.....what is the piece that looks like a barn beam at the end of the couch?? The piece of wood is beautiful and seesm to be attached to.... a radiator cover or a book case?? I am intrigued!
ReplyDeleteIt's funny how that can happen. I often find myself appreciating all kinds of looks even though I probably wouldn't adopt them in my own home. I think that's a very old rustic side table.
DeleteOn closer inspection, I see that it's made up of two different types of wood, so now I'm really baffled as to what it could be!
DeleteI’ve noticed that even small apartments in Sweden have nice spacious entry halls that can be configured to provide a lot of storage and create a nice transition into the main living space.
ReplyDeleteThis is true. In the UK I have seen a few main entrances where the door leads directly into a sitting room - especially in older cottages. But in Sweden the architecture often means they have quite decent size hallways. I wonder if this is because we need so much stuff here - especially in the winter!
DeleteSuch a pretty space, soft shades and beautiful wood. Me too, not too fond of muted shades, as we receive little daylight in the autumn and winter, sometimes spring, but this is a beauty! I am intrigued by the 'barn beam' too:) and yes, even 'small' apartments are neatly outfitted with adequate storage.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about the deep loss in your life, Niki! Lost my Dad quite early , took about 15 years to not think about him without a tear. And then, you realize all the years that you could have had with him, Still, you accept it and press forward, especially for the children. I would hold on to every record and system:)
Thank you. I am so sorry to hear about your Father, that must have been so incredibly tough to lose him so early.
DeleteWe still have all his LPs! :)
At a glance I assumed the wood was a side table but now I see that it's made up of two different types of wood so I'm really baffled now!
As a southwest BC Canadian, these places resonate with me. My favourite thing is that they put their stereo and vinyl collection in such a small space. My new place is 600 Sft. I am just moving in and that is a priority for me as well. I just need to figure out placement. Their small stereo stand is perfect!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your new place. I love that the stereo is a priority for you - sounds like you need a lovely stand like this one!
DeleteI like the soft look of this place, and I love the balcony, but I would need more art!!
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree - it would be really nice to see some art dotted around, like behind the sofa etc :)
DeleteMy dad died more than a decade ago, and time has helped make it feel less raw, but really, I still have sad moments of nostalgia when I think of my dad. But the longer the time since he passed, the more good things I remember (and less about him being sick) I wish you peace in your memory of your father, and many happy memories of your time together.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this Lisa and I am so sorry for your loss. It gave me so much encouragement to hear the memory of the actual sickness fades - and fond memories become stronger over time :)
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