I am always drawn to the opposite. Mention a documentary about climbing Mount Everest or another daring adventure and I’ve hit play before they’ve even put on their crampons – from the safety and warmth of my sofa, of course. And here on MSH, there’s always room for a big old house in a remote country setting – even if many of us live right in the middle of the city.
That said, some of the most inspiring homes are often the smallest ones. Spaces that rely on clever planning, flexible living solutions and smart storage – and prove that you don’t need endless square metres to create something full of personality.
And that’s exactly what this bright little Stockholm apartment does so well.
Measuring 36 m² (388 ft²), the one-bedroom apartment is full of lively prints, small pops of colour set against a soft, neutral backdrop (note the distinct lack of white), and a joyful collection of playful details that gently nudge a smile as you move from room to room.
Even though we haven’t seen the sun for some time, these cheerful touches make the flat feel bright whatever the weather. And isn’t that part of the magic of a thoughtfully put-together home? A flower-shaped bath mat underfoot. A botanical shower curtain that turns everyday routines into something a little more joyful. Cherry-themed glasses catching the light. A tablecloth dotted with tiny lemons, quietly reminding you not to take life too seriously. None of it shouts – it simply delights.
It’s a lovely reminder of how small, inexpensive details can completely transform a space – great news for renters and homeowners alike. Which playful touch would you borrow for your own home? And do you lean more towards calm and neutral, or do you enjoy adding cheerful little surprises like these?
Let’s take the tour!
Have you noticed how popular blue and white ceramics have become lately? A true classic that perfectly suits the nostalgic phase we’re in.
Tables attached to the balcony are perfect for saving space on a small balcony. And the
chess set is lovely too!
Cobalt blue is set to continue as a key colour this year (and hopefully forever once we've invested in it, after all, we don't need to stick to trends, just what we love!) - and this
Siesta bedding from Midnatt is so vibrant! Word of caution if you buy Swedish bedding - their sizes are quite different, for example the pillows are almost square shaped (50 cm x 60 cm!), it's very strange!
It's clever how they've created a thread of cobalt blue throughout the flat - look back and you'll spot small details everywhere - it really helps to tie the space together.
Oh, so fun!
I loved looking at all the details in this apartment, so fabulous!
Did anything stand out to you?
I think I might treat myself to the lemon tablecloth, it would be so pretty on our garden table at our summer cabin!
Here are some more homes with a wonderful, playful touch:
I hope this home tour has filled with you ideas or at the very least brightened up your day.
Thank you so much for dropping by!
Niki
I love how so many small apartments in your posts have small outdoor spaces that the residents have furnished and decorated so well! I imagine it makes a huge difference in their quality of life.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your article with IKEA! Most of us are definitely ready for spring.
ReplyDeleteWell done on your article for IKEA! All the items are so pretty--it must have been a pleasure to write it!
ReplyDeleteThis apartment is a winner. I tend to think of my single days when I see apartments like this--what a happy space to spend your time. The wooden chairs at the dining table look exactly like chairs that my grandfather gave me when I moved out for the first time. My son has carried on the tradition of using them in an apartment. They greatly benefit from a cushion. 😉
Lots of things caught my eye. The brick wall and wooden floors warm things up, and I'm a big fan of using neutrals as your expensive, base pieces (sofa, cabinets) and bringing in color and personality in smaller doses. That technique is done well here. The fish wall hanging made me laugh. My husband and son are both fisheries biologists, and we have fish-themed items all over the house. Like you, I think the tablecloth is sweet, and the shower curtain is so happy and spring-like.
In nice weather, I would live on the balcony. I agree with Jane that having an outdoor space in an apartment adds so much. The table with the corner bench is a clever use of space. I enjoyed today's home a lot!
Wholly agree with everything You, Jane and Kris have said. I can spend an hour looking at this apartment. To me, it starts with the build. Clever placement of windows to bring the light in, and then growing plants make a home feel calm and comforting. The living room is thoughtfully done. The shower curtain reminded me of the florals in the IKEA article. Well done, beautifully scripted😊 Love the soft green.
ReplyDelete