my scandinavian home

Some people love to go all out at Christmas, while others prefer a more pared-back approach. If you fall into the latter camp, I think you're going to enjoy the festive touches in Sandra's minimalist apartment in Hanover, Germany (remember this tour?!). Think subtle bunches of eucalyptus, olive and amaryllis, candles, and white paper stars and Christmas ornaments against a serene white and light wood backdrop. I had a brief chat with Sandra to find out more!

What is important to you when it comes to decorating for the season?

As you may recognise, I appreciate simplicity and clear structures around me - and, although I really love to follow the seasons with my home decor, the basic feel of the home remains constant.

When do you start adding festive touches to your home?

I see more and more people getting festive in November. But, for me it makes it even more special to wait until the First Sunday of Advent - when the countdown officially begins!

What's your philosophy when it comes to Christmas decorating?

I think simplicity is key - 'less is more'. I have an overall focus on natural elements like wood, flowers and of course a lot of greenery like fir, eucalyptus and olive. The result is a minimalist, natural but also refined look.

Do you have anything new in your home this season?

This Christmas, I found a huge Scandinavian paper star, (more info here!) that will spread some Christmas cheer in our living room.

Thank you for inviting us inside your beautiful, festive home Sandra!

I think Pauline and Jo, Sandra's dogs are enjoying their Christmassy home, don't you?

Is there anything that stood out to you?

I guess you know what's coming (you know I can never resist!) - yes, links to more Scandinavian Christmas decoration inspiration of course!! Here goes:

Our Swedish Christmas from Per's perspective (don't miss the 20% discount off Skandinavisk seasonal candles with code nikijul20 - valid until 16th December).

10 simple DIY decorations made by nature

5 mini Christmas tree ideas for small spaces

A Rural Swedish country home at Christmas

A mysig family home at Christmas

Altogether now, "deck the halls with boughs of um, eucalyptus...!"

Incidentally, I have one whole week of blogging left before Christmas - is there anything you'd love to see? Give me a shout in the comment section below and I'll do my best to cover it!

Niki

Photography: Sandra / @Karlas_view shared with kind permission

I've shared so many Christmas-themed posts lately, I thought it was time for something different - what do you reckon? A little dreaming perhaps? This one's for anyone looking for a total life change and a new renovation project in 2020 (Per starts quaking in his boots.....!). The property in question?This magnificent gardener's house and orangery in the grounds of Engsholm castle. Located on the island of Mörkö in the Stockholm archipelago, the estate also comes with its own jetty so you can arrive by boat! The gardener's house dates back to the early 20th century and has been fairly newly renovated (the process of which was covered on Swedish television), whereas the orangery needs a whole load of work. But imagine how incredible it could be? Let's take a tour and you can decide for yourself!