My Scandinavian Home Sunset Beach Gathering!

This gathering was made possible by Granit  - all words and thoughts are my own.

Do you have a favourite beach? One of my all time favourites is Ljunghusen on Sweden's south-western tip. Dunes and powdery white sand stretch out as far as the eye can see and the Baltic waters are crystal clear and a cool, blue-grey. Oh and the beach is almost completely deserted! I've always felt it would be the perfect spot for a beach gathering - and what better than a My Scandinavian Home summer celebration to kick off the start of the Swedish holidays?!

Sarah Brooks-Wilson and I nipped to Swedish brand Granit, who sell an assortment of interior design and functional storage in timeless neutral colours - as well as a local DIY store to pick up everything we needed. 

We decided to keep the look simple to match the surroundings, opting for natural materials such as linen, bamboo, sea grass, wood and glass and soft, muted colours. The table was constructed from a wooden palette (the only heavy item!), which we covered with a linen towel.

In my mind no gathering is really complete without flowers, what do you reckon?! To match the wild setting we filled glass vases and jars with simple blooms such as Baby's Breath and Queen Anne's Lace and tied left over sprigs to bottles and napkins.

The food was kept equally simple - with tapas style olives, charcuterie, salad, bread, cheese and the most delicious orange and sultana loaf baked by Sarah (she makes a mean cake!).

You'd never find a Swedish home without one of these cheese slicers! Incidentally, the irregular shaped plate it's resting on is actually made from eco paper - such a great find!



The light was pin sharp (it's an area famous for artists because of this) and the evening air balmy (we were very lucky in other words - especially for Sweden!). Even so, the sky shifted constantly between dramatic, bruised clouds which threatened to leave us running for the car one minute and a golden sunset the next!

For the awning / wind break we used wooden poles from a local DIY store (make sure they have a spiked end so they are easy to bury in the sand) and 2 metres of sheer white fabric tied on with elastic bands. It honestly took about 2 minutes to put up!

Here's a quick run-down of all of the other items we used in case you'd also like to recreate this for an evening at the beach: 

Get The Look




1. Cushion Ribbed Grey 2. Cushion Ribbed Offwhite 3. Basket Palm Small 4. Carpet Seagrass 90x200cm 5. Wineglass 52cl 6. Candle 7x10 cm White 7.Vase Recycled Glass 30x18 cm 8. Plate Eco 10pcs 9. Blanket Quilted Grey 10. Cushion Linen Lightgrey 11. Cushion Linen Dark Grey 121. Basket Seaweed Small 13. Lantern Rattan 20x24cm 14. Lantern Bamboo 90cm 15. Lantern Glass Jar 16. Light String Ball 80 Lamps 17. Bottle Seegrass 0,75L 18. Plate Tapas 19. Tray Bamboo Ø30 cm 20. Kitchen Towel Linen Dark grey 21. Kitchen Towel Linen Offwhite 22. Cutting Board Beech 30x12cm 23. Towel Linen Large Lightgrey 24. Basket Bamboo Ø20cm 25. Bottle Patent Cork 0,5L 26. Lantern Glass Bottle 27. Bottle Patent Cork 7cl 28. Cheese Slicer Wood/Metal 29. Cushion Chair Lightgrey

* Granit has physical stores in Sweden, Germany and Finland and ships Europe-wide. 

We had a truly magical evening - and now I know how simple it is to set-up, we'll definitely be doing it again soon!

There are only two thing I'd do differently - the first would be to take a wheel barrow or some kind of mode for transporting the stuff down to the beach... and the second would be to ask Sarah to bake even more of that cake!! It was sooooo good!

Do you have a beach near you for sunset gatherings like this? If so, I'd love to hear about it in the comment section below!

And speaking of beaches and summer, I hope you don't mind that, as per every year, I'll be paring down to three posts a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) over the next three weeks to enjoy a little down time with my family and make the most of everything the Swedish summer has to offer.

I hope you are able to enjoy a little down time to njuter av solen too!

Skål to sea, sands and sunsets!

Niki 






Photography / production: Niki Brantmark. Styling: Sarah Brooks-Wilson

Thank you to Granit for sponsoring this post and making our My Scandinavian Home beach gathering possible. As always,  all styling and words are our own and I only ever work with brands I love and think you will too. Thank you for supporting the companies that make fresh content possible.

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Win Three Danish Brass Candlesticks from JENSENplus!

Have you heard of JENSENplus? If not, you're in for a treat! The Danish homeware brand focuses on creating simple and minimalist pieces with a Scandinavian touch that are designed to withstand the test of time. The collection includes dining tables, chairs, desks, coat racks and daybeds (among other items), all of which are made in Denmark from natural materials such as wood, concrete, steel and leather. Oh and they also sell the most beautiful multi-purpose candle-stick holders - and they're looking to give-away three to one lucky person (yes, they're lovely people too!). Scroll down for more details! In the meantime here's a sneak peek of their beautiful collection:



I think the K2 chair is my favourite piece of all - especially the Monaco textile and Yellow Revival Velour versions seen here - so pretty! (imagine them in a meeting?!).

The K2 Depot sideboard can be customised to suit you: choose between different colors, heights and number of shelves. And go dark (as seen above) or light.

These ergonomic poufs come with a strap so you can easily move them around (especially handy if you become attached to it and don't want anyone else to take it when you get up!). It comes in such pretty colours too!


Designed by danish architect Mikkel Bahr, the coat rack works equally well in the bedroom, hallway or bathroom (love this white version against the plum coloured wall too!).

... And those candlesticks I was telling you about!
These solid brass multifunctional candlesticks numbers are perfect for getting your hygge on! JP101 and JP102 are reversible and can be used for either tealights or long candles (in our house we're always low on the longer variety but seem to have a lifetime supply of tealights .. does anyone else find this?!).

JP103, on the other hand, comes in three sizes and you can use it as a vase or as a candlestick. Blooms by day, hygge by night! The entire collection offers endless combinations and will look beautiful in the window (Scandinavians love to place candles and lamps in the window since it makes a home look more inviting) - on the table, or as a sculptural piece on a side cabinet. 





If you're already feeling the glow from these beauties, sign-up to the JENSENplus newsletter here for your chance to be the lucky winner of 3 JP-candlesticks (1 x JP-101, 1 x JP103 H70, 1 x JP103 H95) worth 174 euros!

The competition is open worldwide exclusively to My Scandinavian Home Blog readers and the winner will be drawn 11th May, 2018. The lucky winner will be contacted directly by JENSENplus.

Held og lykke (as they say in Danish!). 



This post is sponsored by JENSENplus, however all words are my own and I only ever work with brands I love and think you will too. Thank you for supporting the wonderful companies that make My Scandinavian Home possible.

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Twinkle, twinkle little tree!

Sponsored post
The Scandinavians generally start decorating their home for the holidays on the first Sunday of advent (is it the same where you live?). As with all things Nordic, the decorations are beautiful in a fuss-free, subtle way.  Think earthy colours, natural textures and plenty of foliage for perfectly imperfect vignettes.  Every year we head to the forest to cut down our Christmas tree (one of our family's favourite days of the year,  not just because there's glögg and pepperkaka (ginger thins) involved, honest!). But this season I'll be bringing in another type of tree too - the Nobili collection by Denmark's oldest ceramics brand Kähler. Designed by Mette Bache and Barbara Bendix Becker, Nobili is a pretty series of six hand-decorated ceramic candle holders inspired by the clear frosty nights of the winter forest. Each is perforated with holes to allow the warm glow of candlelight to cast pretty shadows on the wall. Not only does it make for a cosy display on a table, mantel piece or windowsill, if you're very tight on space at home it's the perfect mini Christmas tree alternative!



"The distinctive silhouettes are inspired by clear frosty nights in a winter forest, when the shadows
dance and the stars glimmer in the soft, freshly fallen snow."

 "When darkness falls and the moon shines in the clear night sky, the shadows dance across the frozen streams and the soft, freshly fallen snow that covers hills and trees. It is these evocative hours and the wholly unique light of Nordic forests that inspired the range’s dark, vivid glaze."

Aren't they beautiful?! Sooo cosy too.

I love how pretty the dusty green, mouth-blown Omaggio glass vase looks in the vignette on the table too. "When the dusty green vase is combined with other shades of green, it creates a shadowy, fascinating contrast to the pale, Nordic aesthetic," the Kähler team explains. Yep, totally agree. It's very subtle and ideal for fresh sprigs of pine and other foliage gathered from the garden / nearby park / forest / through the cracks of the pavement - the more imperfect the better! 

You can pick up items from the Nobili collection and Omaggio glass range over at the Kähler web shop and a whole host of design shops (find your nearest retailer here). 

Bring on the hygge! 


This post is brought to you in collaboration with Kähler, however all words are my own and I only ever work with brands I love and think you will too.

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Bring a Warm, Minimalist Touch to your Kids Bedroom

Calling all Aussie friends out there looking for fab Scandi-inspired children's furniture (that's gentle on the wallet too - got to love that, right?!)! Fantastic Furniture is a Sydney based sofa and bedding manufacturer with superstores in every major metropolitan city and regional town across Australia. Wander in (or take a look online) and you'll find all kinds of minimalist furniture for your children's bedroom including beds, storage units and desks (how fab is the Cabin Kids Bunk Bed for starters?!). Choose a classic white approach (which I have gone for in my own daughter's room) or warm it up with a natural wood finish. Bedding with colourful fun patterns and bold prints also add to the inviting look and feel - as well as provide a cosy place to curl up under and read bedtime stories together. Look out for my six tips on how to create a lovely Scandinavian style bedroom for your little ones below. In the meantime, here are some inspiring looks from Fantastic Furniture...












My 6 tips on creating a Scandinavian inspired children's bedroom
 
1. A child will enjoy their room if it's practical (and safe). Space permitting, try to ensure it covers all their needs including a zone to sleep, get creative, store and read. Plenty of storage places for all their bits and bobs (trust me - my girls have a lot of tiny little things!!) means that it's easier to keep the room neat and tidy, which in turn means they'll enjoy it more.

2. If you choose furniture with a clean design and neutral colours your little one can keep it for longer as they won't grow out of the look. Think classic pieces that stand the test of time and keep to a simple colour palette of white, black, wood etc.

3. Add a playful touch to the room by adding textiles featuring a pattern motif and colours. By getting your child involved in the process they will feel they have greater control over their environment and will be able to add their personal stamp on the room. Plus, these pieces can easily be exchanged / passed on as they get older and their tastes change.

4. Add your child's favourite colour to the room by creating an accent wall (you may like to paint a half-half wall, go for a playful geometric look. Removable wall stickers are also a great way to add a little colour. They are widely available, but if you feel like getting creative you can create your own using a stencil and tape.

5. Add layers of textiles in the form of cushions, blankets, and rugs to create a super warm and inviting feel to the room. That way you can cosy up together at bedtime.

6. Add plenty of lighting (including a mix of ambient and task) so they can enjoy the room after dark. Black-out blinds are ideal for a great night's sleep but don't forget the night light for little ones who are afraid of a monster lurking under the bed).

Feel free to add your own tips in the comment section below, it's always great to hear new ideas!
GET THE LOOK


1. Cabin Single Bed
2. Aster Corner Desk
3. Cabin 3 Drawer Lowboy
4. Willow Double Bed
5. Jordan Single Bunk
6. Cabin Kids Bunk Bed


Happy shopping!


This post is brought to you in collaboration with Fantastic Furniture, however all words are my own. 

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My new watch from TRIWA, Stockholm

Just occasionally the postman arrives on his bike bearing goodies. This week he delivered my new Blue Aska timepiece from TRIWA  - and I have to admit I did do a little dance. For those of you not familiar with the brand, TRIWA make uber cool watches, straps, sunglasses (loving the Peach Thelma version!) and bracelets out of their creative studio in Stockholm (see the film about the inspiring TRIWA story here!). I particularly love the Blue Aska since it has a lovely abstract symmetry pattern, and is sold as a limited edition of 500 pieces (guys - hurry!). Having worn it non stop since it arrived (how did I ever get by without a timepiece when they make such a perfect piece of jewellery?!), I've now also got my eye on the classic Ivory Klinga and this very cool Midnight Falken - designed to interpret 1950's simplicity (a girl can never have too many watches, agreed?!).  For now though, I'll be enjoying mine over a fika (any excuse!).






Styling / photography: Niki Brantmark - My Scandinavian Home (with a little help from Tess!). 

Ah so beautiful! And who would have thought a watch goes so well with a cinnamon bun?! It must be it's Swedish heritage!

Oh and TRIWA ships worldwide (just saying!).

Have a lovely weekend - see you Monday!

PS Feel inspired by Manon's beautiful home, which artfully combines Kenyan handicrafts with contemporary design!

PPS I'm on my way up to Stockholm for a party tonight - eeeeeeeee!


This post is brought to you in collaboration with TRIWA. However all words are my own and I only ever work with brands I absolutely love and think you will too! Thank you for supporting the businesses that help make My Scandinavian Home possible. 

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My new window nook / reading corner!

We've got a window nook in our open plan sitting / dining room area and it's been home to everything from a drinks trolley, gallery wall and even our Christmas tree! But in the back of my mind I've always thought what a beautiful spot it would make for a daybed. Not only does this corner of our home get the most beautiful light, it's also really peaceful looking out over the garden and up at the moon at night.  And guess what?! I've finally got around to creating it thanks to a little help from Danish brand Nordal and their lovely wall lamp and cushions in grey, dusty rose and a soft cream throw as well as a few other bits and bobs (see below for more details!). It's turned out soooo cosy and already become the most popular spot in the house!








Photography: Niki Brantmark / My Scandinavian Home. Styling: Genevieve Jorn

What do you think?

Although it's super sweet seeing a little row of children's feet sticking out from under a blanket while they giggle over something on the ipad... but just one evening this week, just one!...I'd love to light that oil lamp, pour myself a large glass of something and read a book in this very spot!

Get the look:



1. Wall lamp 2. Floor cushion dark grey 3. Rug 4. Cushion cover purple grey 5. Cushion cover with circle print 6. Cushion cover dusty rose 7. Round serving platter 8. Oil lamp 9. Cotton shawl off white/beige

The open book is the first sneak peek inside my very own The Scandinavian Home (which launches in three weeks - exciting!). And I found the mobile here.

Give me a shout in the comment section below if you're wondering about any of the other items you see!

Have a lovely day!

PS Oh and a big Happy Birthday to stylist extraordinaire Gen! - I love working with you :)

This post was brought to you in collaboration with Nordal. All words are my own and I only ever work with brands I love and think you will too. Thank you for supporting the brands which help me bring fresh posts to your mail box. And thank you Nordal for helping me finally complete my window nook!

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A visit from a Swedish Ninja

A couple of weeks ago a talented friend of mine - Maria Gustavsson the founder of Swedish Ninja dropped by for a fika. Maria's little boy and my daughter used to be in the same class at school before they moved to Denmark last Autumn (sniff sniff). Maria's so much fun and when it comes to design, it doesn't surprise me that the Swedish Ninja way is to 'create gorgeous, kick-ass designs...with a whole lot of passion and a big sense of humour' - love that! Swedish Ninja designs include the famous Little Darling table lamp (which made big waves when it launched last year), the new Big Darling floor lamp (doubling up as a dimmable light and clothes stand) and the Zick Zack table designed by Olga Bielawska - out at the end of the month. Here are a few of the designs in my own home - I love them soooo much - oh how great it is to have talented friends!











Credits: photography- Niki Brantmark - My Scandinavian Home. Product designer - Maria Gustavsson - Swedish Ninja

So pleased! Especially loving the Big Darling, how fab is that? - I might need one in my hall too?!


Do you have your eye on anything?


A quick guide to where things are from in case you're interested: my bedroom Big Darling floor lamp, light grey, Tom Dixon stoolMy daughter's room: Big Darling floor lamp, black, 'Greater Flamingo' from IXXI, garland / bunting. Sitting room - Little Darling table lampm light greyZick Zack table (keep an eye out for this over at Swedish Ninja soon!), Without Words print (contact Swedish Ninja for more info), 'little figures' limited edition drawings by Swedish artist Pearl Wallén. Green pouf from Bolia.

Word on the street (or over our fika!) is that Zick Zack nest table will come in a matt finish black or light grey - think I've found my new coffee tables! 

Swedish Ninja ships to Europe (and the tables can also be shipped to the USA).  

Thanks for dropping by Maria! 

Have a lovely day! 

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Enjoy 30% off beautiful leather organisers at NOORVERK

Exciting news! You may recognise one of these beautiful leather items by Danish workshop Ham & Lerche from a gift guide I posted last month (by the way I got the macbook folder! Love it!). Available through NOORVERK - an online store selling beautiful Nordic handmade design, art and crafts directly from a wide range of scandinavian designers -  four of Ham & Lerche's finest leather accessories are now on sale with 30% off until 5th February! If you're after something beautifully made that will also help you feel a little more organised - now's your chance! 






In order of appearance: 1. large desk organiser in natural leather (also available in blue and black). 2. Pen holder in black (also available in natural leather and blue). 3. Pencil case in natural (also available in blue and black.  4. Small desk organiser in blue (also available in natural and black).

So beautiful don't you think?

I really love the pencil case (right now we have pens all over the house so I can never find a nice one when I need one and always end up writing with a felt tip! I feel Perhaps this would keep them in check?!).

Have you got your eye on anything in particular?

Oh and while you're over at NOORVERK, you might want to check out the other Scandinavian design items on sale in the Home and Living category too! Just saying!

NOORVERK deliver to Denmark, Germany, Sweden, UK, Holland, Belgium and Luxemburg.

Have a lovely evening!

This post was sponsored by NOORVERK. All words are my own and I only ever work with brands I love and think you will to.

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