Have you ever been on holiday and dreamt of staying? For one Swede, this is exactly what happened! Annsofie Stendahl booked a one-month holiday to Mallorca in the Spanish Balearic Islands over 22 years ago. With the long, dark, cold Scandinavian winter looming, Annsofie couldn't bear to leave - and when her friends packed their bags, she made a spur of the decision moment to stay.
Annsofie found an incredible finca in the countryside. Once a vineyard and farmhouse, the house had been lying dormant for over 70 years and required a huge amount of work. Annsofie rolled up her sleeves and set about transforming it into a wonderful oasis, which is also enjoyed by her husband and son.
Today, the once derelict garden features a wonderful covered social area with bespoke corner seating built by a local carpenter and cushions from IKEA). The family also enjoy a lush pool and outdoor bar (because, why not?).
There are lots of beautiful rattan lamps like these available here*. The table was picked up in Thailand.
Inside, a fresh white Scandi cool palette meets the warmth of the Med. The living space is sparsely furnished with wonderful vintage pieces, many of which have been purchased in nearby Palma.
I love the cool linens in the master bedroom - try Bemz for an identical white linen bed skirt* (available in different sizes), I've got this one in my bedroom and it's wonderful!
The beautiful stone walls have been left exposed around the windows and other parts of the house, adding a load of texture and warmth and ensuring the Mallorca character shines through.
Annsofie transformed a former wine cellar into an atelier from where she can paint and create ceramics.
How wonderful! What a life they've made for themselves!
Could you imagine moving abroad?
Many Scandinavians have made the island their home - a few of which I've featured in the past. Here are a few other wonderful homes to dream about today:
I've mentioned many times before that my older sister lives in Mallorca, and whenever I visit, I'm always tempted to stay! We haven't been able to visit for over three years now, so I'm super excited that we're going to visit in a few weeks. Since we're a bit of a rowdy crowd (!) we decided to book our own villa in the same village rather than inflict ourselves on Charlie et al for an entire week! I can't wait to see them all as well and discover more of the island. I'm also excited about visiting some of the vintage stores in Palma. I think Per's praying I don't stumble across a huge ceramic pot or other large item to bring back home. Trust me, it happens!
I feel there's a bit of a theme forming this week already (did you see yesterdays holiday home in Kefalonia?). I'm curious to see whether it continues... (you may have noticed this blog is very unplanned, I simply share what inspires me day to day!).
Niki
Photography: Anna Malmberg
Styling: Mari Strenghielm
Shared with kind permission.
*affiliate links
11
