Ciao! I got back from Rome late last night after a really fabulous few days. I absolutely love that city — it feels like living inside a museum. Just incredible. Have you ever been?
One thing I really noticed this time was just how hot it was though. After living in Sweden for 22 years, I’m definitely not as heat-resistant as I once was — and 36°C (that’s about 97°F!) had us clinging to the nearest gelato boutique at every turn!
On the way home, I was reading about how Scandinavia is becoming a hot summer destination for a so-called “coolcation” — and I totally get it. The air is fresh, and you can do things without melting (even if you do need a raincoat or maybe even a hat and gloves, depending on what the Norse weather gods decide!). So, what do you think about your very own Swedish summer cottage?
There's one currently for sale that looks just perfect — nestled among lilac bushes and forest, with a cool lake nearby for swimming when the thermometer starts creeping up. I personally love the look of the verandah; I can already imagine myself in the wicker chair, soaking up the birdsong. The interior feels like a step back in time — a deep green kitchen, charming vintage wallpaper (even on the cupboard doors!), and sweet little touches of Swedish folk style in every corner, no doubt passed down through the family for generations.
A summer filled with card games, foraging, good food, and complete relaxation? That sounds like bliss to me, I hope you feel inspired too!
This cottage really took me back in time — a few elements reminded me of my grandmother’s house! Did you feel nostalgic seeing these pictures too?
It was also refreshing to see a different shade of green in the kitchen, especially with sage green being so popular lately.
Was there anything in particular that stood out to you?
What a homey refuge, very nostalgic as you said. Three small things that caught my eye in particular: the multicolored armchair glimpsed in the shot that comes after the kitchen photos (bet there's an interesting story there), the candlestick sitting in the bath and the lovely crocheted(?) bed cover.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for pointing out the multi-coloured chair - such an interesting upholstery twist on a traditional antique!
DeleteI'm not surprised that going to cooler places is becoming popular - it's just not enjoyable to sweat the entire time you're away! After sweltering east coast US summers, I always look forward to being cold on vacation in places like the Alps, come September.
ReplyDeleteThis cottage is just perfectly cozy!
I completely agree - you simply can't do anything in extreme heat! I once went to a talk by a sailor who said the one thing she found the most difficult about her circumnavigation was the heat. She said - if you're cold, you can always wear more clothes or climb into a sleeping bag. But if you're hot, there's no escape from it.
DeleteThere are some definite Grandma's house vibes here that make it feel like you are being wrapped in the arms of someone who loves you for a great big hug. I loved the headboard in the bedroom and also what must be two teeny closets on either side. The vintage feel of the bathroom also appeals to me. But the porch!! Well now that might be the very best feature of all. Cool air AND a lake- oh my! I grew up in an old farmhouse and my grandparents lived in farmhouses as well, so these homes make me feel quite comfortable. Old homes definitely have their quirks, but I wonder if it doesn't make us more tolerant and patient as people to have to find ways to navigate a less than perfect set up? Thank you for sharing....and I am so happy you got to enjoy both pasta and gelato!!! : > )
ReplyDeleteI got the grandma vibes too - my mother-in-law has several crocheted blankets, all of which are handmade! I agree that the porch is just lovely - imagine sitting there and listening to the summer rain?
DeleteI'd stay here in a heartbeat. I love the retro vibe and the use of cheerful color. A few things that I enjoyed seeing--the green cabinetry (which surprised me a little, but it works well here), the bedroom with the wallpapered closet doors (how perfect is that bed in the space?), and how they used the wicker mirror above the bathroom sink--I think it's a fun solution which doesn't require any installation. I'd love to be on a lake like this, which isn't overcrowded with houses. As for a cool-cation--yup, I'm in. I dislike being hot, and we try to find locations for our vacations where the setting is cooler, if at all possible.
ReplyDeleteWe're glad you're back, Niki!
I love that you have pointed out these features kris, thank you. I agree on the cool 'cay! I used to love the heat, but these days I'd happily enjoy cooler temperatures so I can be more active.
DeleteMe too, would grab this beautiful property if I could:)So many Nordic antique furniture...the bed side table:) have been looking at each closely. Just lovely, the property has a creek too! Love it that it has been left as in times past, must be wonderful to walk through. Not cottage but more of a country house.
ReplyDeleteIts so nice to hear from you again. Glad you are back safe home, maybe with just a tan.
I am so happy you loved this pretty cottage too! There are indeed so many lovely touches in this home :)
DeleteI adore all of it. Especially the porch. Is the kitchen also the sitting room or living room? I would love to be there.
ReplyDeleteGood question! I went back to look at the floor plan and the kitchen is its own separate room, with the hallway and dining room coming off it.
DeleteWhen it’s hot in Rome go out in the morning and evening the trouble is when you only have a few days you want to see as much as you can and there is a LOT to see in Rome.
ReplyDeleteVery good tip. On the first day, we tried to push through, and we were completely wiped by the end of the day. So the next day we took it more easy and took a long lunch and relaxed in the cool of our Airbnb when the sun was at its highest - we felt so much better that evening! It's such an incredible city, and yes, so much to see!
DeleteWhat a dream! Love the original hardwood floors and layers of paint. Does anyone know where that sweet little basket with the Nisse came from?
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting and helping me stay calm here in America.
The hand-painted basket is absolutely delightful! Thank you for pointing it out, as I hadn't spotted it before. Sadly, I am not sure where it's from.
DeleteColocation this would be my stay forever !
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