The other day I was scrolling through Instagram and someone had shared a carousel of four enormous homes, asking which one we’d choose if we won the lottery. I was pleased to see that many people in the comments felt the same as I did – none of them. They were all just far too big.
There’s something wonderfully cosy about a smaller home, and this Swedish space is furnished so thoughtfully. It may be compact with the bedroom, dining area and kitchen all rolling into one, yet it still feels calm, considered and wonderfully lived-in.
What really draws me in here is the mix of pared-back Scandinavian simplicity with those softer, more personal layers. The clean-lined kitchen and whitewashed floors set a quiet backdrop, while warm wood furniture, woven textures and that lovely paper lantern bring in a gentle, relaxed warmth. I also love the open metal shelving (so popular right now) and that slightly eclectic mix of everyday objects – ceramics, books, plants.
It’s the little details that make it, too – the red wall lamp and the colourful rug breaking up the neutral palette, the trailing greenery, the blend of vintage and modern pieces sitting side by side. It all feels very effortless, but still intentional.
Ready to take the tour?
Alisan's serene Copenhagen apartment
The studio of Swedish furniture upholsterer Carina Grefmar
Agree, small spaces have a charm( especially with an high ceiling). If nothing else, less to think about. That chair is pretty☺ There's ample space for a queen bed. With a small deck it will make a playful fun apartment.
ReplyDeleteStainless steel solid shelves are nice in the kitchen( bottom 3).
Condos are owned units, flat- basic, apartment- more elaborate are rented here.
https://yolagray.com/product/six-actona-art-deco-oak-high-back-dining-chairs/
DeleteFound this for maybe chair-look alike☺
Think they are high back rattan dining chairs.
Yes they look like Boho style Ratan dining chairs . I found them on 1Dibs 4 of them around $2000 for 4 😃
DeleteI'm with you. I have never wanted a huge house. I am very interested in well-laid out spaces, rather than rarely-used rooms. This flat (look at me, sounding British!) looks like the space is used efficiently. Sometimes smaller spaces have no kitchen space, but this looks workable, with space for guests.
ReplyDeleteI like to see the differences that you show in homes overseas, vs the overly-styled homes in the USA. It would be unusual to see the wire hanging from the red light here, but I notice that you show many homes where the wires are exposed (not sure if I'm expressing myself correctly here). Beds are also pictured with lots of styling in the USA, whereas more of the unmade style that you show.
The minimalist aesthetic in this Gothenburg flat is such a masterclass in using "warm neutrals" to make a space feel both clean and incredibly lived-in. It’s a great reminder that you don't need a ton of color to create a high-end feel when you’ve got that perfect balance of natural light and tactile textures.
ReplyDeleteThe chair is certainly eye catching. I enlarged the photo on my phone so that I could figure out exactly what I was looking at! I like that this apartment is not just a box. There are corner areas and places off to the side of others. It just seems to be a friendly space!! Thank you for sharing!
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We have downsized and I love looking at small places for tips. This looks well organised and cosy. I agree about bigger not always being better too.
ReplyDeleteCompletely agree on large homes having less appeal and feel less intimate than a charming and cozy space. Kris above mentioned “well laid out spaces” versus rarely used rooms, which I also find appealing. I particularly like their use of shelving, including the smaller wall mounted shelves in kitchen and sleeping area. That chair is marvelous!
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