In need of a little escape today? Buckle up friends, we're off to a serene country home on the Swedish island of Gotland!
Julia Khouri lives in the North of the Baltic island with her husband and four children. Her home is a sea
of serenity with milky white shades throughout. "A light and simple look has always appealed to me and gives me a harmonious feeling at home," she explains.
Keep a look out for the mix of materials and texture which help to add interest and cosiness, the tiled masonry ovens and the blend of old and new (that bathroom cabinet!).
Have you noticed fee-standing range-style ovens creeping into Scandinavian homes more and more lately? This one is by Smeg.
The mix and match items - including a Little Petra armchair and antique table in the sitting room are lovely! I really appreciate a combination of old and new.
It's not always easy to throw objects of different styles and eras together, but it works really well here because they share similar tones.
You'll spot vintage glass cabinets throughout Julia's home. Not only do they look nice, but they also provide great storage. They are also hot property right now, but if you're prepared to get the paint brush out, you can still find one for a steal!
I don't feel like I show enough TVs in the home tours - so here is an example! I like it when they are more of a side show than a focal point, as seen here, do you agree?
The master bedroom is also on the ground floor. Notice how Julia has added lace inside the cabinet, which adds a soft, romantic touch and also helps to hide the items inside for a calmer look.
I really appreciate the way Julia has found furniture to fit all kinds of nooks in her home - seen here in the window (old Gotland homes often have deep walls like this), and also in the bathroom.
It's no easy feat when you are working with vintage / antique finds. If you're looking for an item in particular for your home, it's important to know the measurements in advance and carry a tape measure with you. Or you can do what I recently did, find something you absolutely love, buy it and THEN work out where to put it. After all, a coveted second-hand item of beauty is not always easy to find, so you have to seize the opportunity when it arrives (if you have the space to store it)!
The bathroom has been renovated in a classic, timeless way.
I have to say, out of all my years of blogging, I've never seen a bath this small in Scandinavia! I have been in one though - many years ago as a child on a visit to Morzine, France. I found it very relaxing - mainly because I didn't need to share it with my sister for once! It's a great idea if you'd love a bath but don't necessarily have the space.
I hope you enjoyed the tour of Julia's home as much as I have, and it has left you feeling inspired.
Is there anything that stood out to you?
See more country homes today - or if you're looking for urban inspiration, check out the Danish apartment archive - it's one of my favourites!
Kram!
Niki
Photography Julia Khouri, shared with kind permission
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